How to Write Your Essay for the Kathleen DiMarco Gulino Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to build a compelling narrative:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing and experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions. Consider significant moments that influenced your educational path.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Include specific metrics, such as GPA, awards, leadership roles, or community service hours, to demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship will bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and the resources you need to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. Use specific details to create a vivid picture of who you are.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, structure your essay logically. A suggested outline could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or aspirations.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they shaped your goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that demonstrate your readiness for further study.
4. The Gap: Explain your current challenges and how the scholarship will help you overcome them.
5. Personality: Share personal stories that highlight your values and commitment to your community.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express gratitude for the opportunity to apply.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and maintain a reflective tone. Avoid clichés and ensure that each sentence contributes meaningfully to your narrative. Focus on specificity—use numbers, timeframes, and accountable details to support your claims. Remember to answer the question, “So what?” in every section to emphasize the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Look for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ask yourself if each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall message. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and ensure that your essay reflects your authentic voice and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Open with a specific moment that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of vague language and empty superlatives. Provide concrete examples and evidence of your achievements.
• Do not rely on passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable. Do not fabricate experiences or achievements.