How to Write Your Essay for the Juliette RP Vision Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Your essay should be structured around four key material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider what experiences have shaped you. Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any pivotal moments that influenced your path.
• Achievements: Identify your key accomplishments. Use specific metrics, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours, to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you lack and articulate why further study is essential. Be specific about your educational goals and how they relate to your future aspirations.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that reflect your values and character. Think about what makes you unique and how that uniqueness can contribute to the scholarship community.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in—consider beginning with a specific moment or anecdote that encapsulates your journey. Then, structure your essay to flow logically from your background to your achievements, followed by the gap, and concluding with your personality. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to maintain the reader's engagement.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on specific actions you have taken. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, "I have always been passionate about helping others," illustrate a specific instance where you made a difference. Reflect on what you learned from these experiences and why they matter to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does it clearly communicate your journey and aspirations? Ensure that your reflections are insightful and demonstrate personal growth. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide an outside perspective on your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes. Avoid clichés and vague language that detracts from your unique voice. Refrain from using passive voice; instead, focus on your actions and decisions. Lastly, do not invent experiences or embellish achievements—authenticity is key to making a genuine connection with the committee.