How to Craft Your Essay for the Lisa Wallace Geise Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity and goals. Consider specific moments that influenced your academic journey.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics or outcomes. This may include academic honors, leadership roles, or community service contributions.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help you address. Be specific about how further study at UWF will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Think about the values and qualities that define you. Include anecdotes that reveal your character and commitment to making a positive impact.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that captures the reader's attention, possibly by opening with a specific moment or insight. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the impact you wish to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice to convey your experiences and reflections. Be specific and avoid vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a topic, demonstrate this passion through concrete examples and outcomes. Each paragraph should flow logically to the next, creating a cohesive narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself: What insights have I gained? Why do these experiences matter? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, reflecting on how your experiences will shape your future contributions.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Steer clear of clichés and generic statements. Avoid starting with phrases like “From a young age” or “I have always been passionate about.” Ensure that every claim is backed by specific evidence or anecdotes. Additionally, refrain from using passive voice and abstract language; focus on concrete actions and results.