How to Craft an Essay for the Lathrop GPM, LLP Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including formative experiences that have shaped your values and goals. Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Focus on specific metrics, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your commitment and impact. Use numbers and timeframes to provide context.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and why further study is crucial. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will bridge the gap to your goals.
• Personality: Humanize your essay with personal anecdotes and specific details that reflect your character and values. Share insights that reveal your motivations and what drives you.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that captures your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically to the next. Use the STAR method to detail specific achievements and challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your growth and the significance of the scholarship in your future. Answer the “So what?” question by connecting your past experiences to your future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and specific language to convey your points clearly. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” illustrate your passion with specific examples and experiences. Keep your tone confident yet reflective, focused on your journey and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each paragraph answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating how your experiences and aspirations connect to the scholarship's goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Engage the reader with a specific moment instead.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active verbs to convey your actions and achievements.
• Do not fabricate experiences or embellish achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
• Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative of your essay.