How to Write Your Essay for the John and Meg Paschal Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, cultural influences, and any experiences that have shaped your interest in social work. Think about specific moments that inspired you to pursue this path.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and professional life. Focus on metrics and outcomes, such as projects you led, volunteer work, or relevant internships that demonstrate your commitment to social work.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn or achieve to reach your goals in social work. Be honest about your current limitations and articulate how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values, motivations, and unique perspective. Use anecdotes that illustrate your character and commitment to making an impact in the community.

Structuring Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. Start with an engaging opening that presents a specific moment or scene from your life. This approach hooks the reader and sets the stage for your narrative.

Each paragraph should focus on one idea, transitioning logically to the next. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and experiences: describe the Situation, Task, Action, and Result for each relevant story.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, showcasing your role in your experiences. Avoid clichés and vague expressions; instead, be specific about your contributions and insights. Reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters to your future in social work.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections connect back to your goals in social work and the scholarship’s mission. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role.
• Do not inflate achievements with vague language—be specific and honest.
• Ensure your essay aligns with the scholarship’s values and mission.