How to Write Your Essay for the Little Bird Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a strong foundation for your essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including your immigration experience and LGBTQI identity. Think about significant moments that shaped your perspective.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular pursuits. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as leadership roles or community projects.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in terms of education or resources that this scholarship could help address. Be clear about your goals and how further study will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Specific stories can illustrate your resilience and commitment to your community.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Background and Identity: Discuss your immigration experience and LGBTQI identity.
3. Achievements: Highlight significant accomplishments and their impact.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Avoid clichés and instead focus on specific, concrete details that bring your experiences to life. Each paragraph should revolve around a single idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and Reflection: The “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and evaluate your essay. Ask yourself: What insights have you gained, and why do they matter? Ensure that each section reflects personal growth and commitment to your goals. Solicit feedback from trusted peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Stay clear of these common mistakes:

• Cliché Openers: Avoid starting with generic statements about your passion or experiences.
• Vague Language: Be specific about your achievements and goals; avoid empty superlatives.
• Passive Voice: Use active voice to convey your agency and contributions.
• Inventing Facts: Stick to your true experiences and avoid embellishments that could undermine your credibility.