How to Craft Your Essay for the Lee Law Firm Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family, community, and experiences that have shaped your educational path. Consider significant moments that highlight your values and motivations.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or examples to illustrate your responsibilities and the impact of your contributions.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your experience or education. Explain how the scholarship will help you bridge these gaps and achieve your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes and insights that reveal your character. Highlight your values, interests, and what makes you unique.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Each section of your essay should focus on one of the four buckets:

1. Introduction: Open with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Describe your personal history and formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments and the skills you've developed.
4. The Gap: Discuss what you lack and how this scholarship will help you.
5. Personality: Share insights that reflect your character and aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express gratitude for the opportunity to apply.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for clarity and specificity. Use active voice and concrete details. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, focus on tangible experiences and their significance. Each paragraph should convey a single idea and transition smoothly to the next.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise with fresh eyes. Ensure that each section answers the question, “So what?” Reflect on how your experiences and insights connect to your future goals and the scholarship's mission. Be prepared to make cuts and adjustments for clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Do not exaggerate your achievements or fabricate experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Ensure that every detail serves a purpose in your narrative.