How to Craft Your Essay for the Leo Besozzi Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To develop a strong essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that shaped your interest in environmental science or water management. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or volunteer work.
• Achievements: List specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to the field. Include metrics where possible, such as projects completed, leadership roles held, or community initiatives led.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of knowledge or experience and explain how further education will help you bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and career aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and motivations. This is your opportunity to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Outlining Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that illustrates your passion for environmental issues.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future goals, emphasizing how the scholarship will enable your contributions to the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and aspirations. Avoid generic statements; instead, provide specific examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on the significance of each experience and how it has prepared you for future challenges.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph answers this question, highlighting the impact of your experiences and aspirations. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and specificity, cutting any vague language or clichés.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Steer clear of vague language; instead, provide concrete examples and metrics.
• Do not use passive voice when you can be more direct.
• Refrain from fabricating details about your experiences or achievements.