How to Craft Your Essay for the Kurt Walter Van Doren Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider your personal history, including any challenges you've faced and how they shaped your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, such as academic successes, leadership roles, or community involvement. Quantify these where possible.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience and how this scholarship can help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Think about traits that define you. Share anecdotes that illustrate your values, interests, and aspirations.

Structuring Your Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Each section should have a clear purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Use the STAR method to detail specific achievements or challenges, ensuring each paragraph progresses logically.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to your educational and career goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” share a specific experience that ignited your interest. This will make your narrative more engaging and authentic.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph conveys not just what you did, but why it matters. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message and clarity.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be aware of common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements without supporting details.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing direct and engaging.
• Steer clear of generic openers and conclusions that do not add value to your narrative.