How to Craft a Winning Essay for the Kaplan Leadership Program

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key categories: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Identify experiences that shaped your values and aspirations. Consider family influences, educational milestones, or community involvement.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. This could include academic honors, leadership roles, or initiatives you spearheaded.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey and how the Kaplan Leadership Program will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Think about personal anecdotes that reveal your character. What makes you unique? How do your values influence your goals?

Creating an Outline

Draft a clear outline to structure your essay. Start with an engaging introduction that captures attention. Follow with sections that explore each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong statement about your future goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Open with a specific moment or scene that illustrates your journey, avoiding generic statements. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, leading the reader through your narrative logically.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph reflects on your growth and the significance of your experiences. Look for opportunities to tighten your language and enhance clarity.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague statements. Avoid phrases like “I have always been passionate about” or “From a young age.” Ensure that every claim is backed by specific examples. Lastly, steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; your essay should feel personal and direct.