How to Craft Your Essay for the Karl and Diane Wustrack Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal journey. What experiences have shaped your desire to pursue education at Clackamas Community College? Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic or extracurricular life. Use metrics or specific outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational journey. How will this scholarship bridge that gap? Be specific about your goals and how further study will help you achieve them.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reflect your values and character. What makes you unique? Use anecdotes that reveal your passions and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that flows logically. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in, followed by sections that cover each of the four buckets. Ensure each section transitions smoothly into the next, maintaining a coherent narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, adopt an active voice and keep your language clear and precise. Avoid clichés and vague generalizations. Instead of stating your passion, show it through specific examples and experiences. Open with a scene or moment that encapsulates your journey, making sure to reflect on its significance.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences connect to your future goals? Ensure that each paragraph contributes to a deeper understanding of who you are and why you deserve this scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists.
• Steer clear of vague claims about your passion without supporting evidence.
• Ensure that all information is accurate and relevant to your application.