How to Craft Your Essay for the John Carlton Myatt Writing Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the following four categories:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your passion for writing. Consider significant moments, influences, or challenges you've faced in your writing journey.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments related to writing. This could include awards, publications, or projects that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Quantify your achievements where possible.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. Discuss what skills or experiences you hope to gain through further education and how this scholarship specifically supports that journey.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your dedication to writing and community service.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A possible outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your relationship with writing.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate separate sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how receiving this scholarship will enable you to make a greater impact in your community through your writing.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, emphasizing your role in your achievements and experiences. Avoid generic statements; instead, use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative.

Revision and Reflection: The “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with the question “So what?” in mind. Does each section convey significance? Reflect on how your experiences have shaped your goals and how the scholarship will facilitate your impact. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language that can obscure your message.