How to Craft Your Essay for the Katharine S. Richards Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material in four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, challenges you’ve faced, or significant moments that sparked your interest in your field of study.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your dedication and capability. This could include academic honors, leadership roles, community service, or relevant work experience. Use specific metrics or outcomes to quantify your success.
• The Gap: Analyze what you currently lack in your educational journey. Why is this scholarship essential for you? Discuss any financial challenges or academic hurdles that further study will help you overcome.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. What motivates you? What do you care about deeply? Specific anecdotes can help humanize your narrative.

Outline Your Essay

Creating an outline will help organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. Consider structuring your essay as follows:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that illustrates your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section answers the “So what?” question, reflecting on your growth and future aspirations.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce how the scholarship will impact your educational and career goals. End with a forward-looking statement that emphasizes your commitment to making a difference in your field.

Drafting Voice

As you draft your essay, use an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about your field, demonstrate this passion through your experiences and achievements. Remember to show your personality, allowing the committee to connect with you as an individual.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself if each section clearly communicates your message and answers the “So what?” question. Ensure that your reflections on experiences are insightful and relevant to your goals.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Steer clear of vague language; specificity is key.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences.
• Ensure you maintain an active voice throughout your essay.