How to Craft Your Essay for the Leslie A. Ebert Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

Organize your thoughts using the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your interest in transplant services or healthcare? Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal moments in your education.
• Achievements: List your relevant accomplishments. Include metrics where possible, such as volunteer hours, leadership roles, or specific projects that demonstrate your commitment to healthcare or community service.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that further education will help you achieve. Be specific about your goals and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Highlight unique aspects of yourself. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your character and demonstrate your passion for the field.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. A clear structure will help guide your writing. Consider the following sections:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures your connection to the Washington Regional Transplant Community.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making a positive impact in the field of healthcare.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on specific details. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead, show your engagement through vivid examples and reflections. Each section should answer the question, “So what?”—why does your experience matter in the context of this scholarship?

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Look for clarity and coherence. Ask yourself if each paragraph contributes to the overall message. Are you showcasing your unique perspective and readiness for further study? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain additional insights.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements about your passion without evidence.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active verbs to convey your actions.
• Do not include invented details or experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from starting with clichés or overly broad statements.