How to Craft Your Essay for the Kevon Moran Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including significant experiences that have shaped your perspective. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your educational journey?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or examples to illustrate your contributions, such as leadership roles, volunteer work, or projects that had a measurable impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack and how further education will bridge that gap. Are there skills or knowledge you need to develop to achieve your career goals?
• Personality: Share details that humanize you. What are your values, interests, or unique experiences that set you apart? This is your opportunity to connect with the committee on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Your outline should have a clear structure that flows logically. Consider the following format:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey. Avoid generic statements; instead, draw the reader in with a specific anecdote.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section reflects on how your experiences have shaped you and connects back to your future goals.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce how the scholarship will empower you to achieve your aspirations. Reflect on your commitment to using your education to benefit others.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and ensure clarity in your writing. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, supported by specific examples. Use transitions to guide the reader through your narrative, ensuring a cohesive flow. Remember to reflect on the significance of each experience—answer the “So what?” question throughout your essay.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back for revision. Focus on clarity, coherence, and the emotional impact of your writing. Ask yourself if each section effectively communicates your journey and goals. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or peers who can provide constructive insights. Ensure that your final draft answers the prompt and showcases your unique perspective.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on specific experiences that illustrate your points.
• Do not rely on vague expressions of passion. Ground your enthusiasm in concrete examples and outcomes.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency and accomplishments.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable. Fabricating details can undermine your credibility.