How to Write Your Essay for the Lula Rawls Service Guild Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets to create a comprehensive narrative:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing and experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. Consider significant moments that influenced your decision to pursue education.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use specific metrics, such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours, to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational journey. Explain how receiving this scholarship will help bridge that gap and enable you to achieve your goals.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character and values. Highlight what makes you unique and how you contribute to your community.

Creating an Outline

Draft an outline to organize your essay logically. Each section should focus on one main idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or experience that draws the reader in. Avoid clichés and aim for specificity.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that you reflect on how each experience has shaped your commitment to education and service.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reiterate your commitment to making a positive impact. Reflect on the significance of the scholarship in your educational journey.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice and clear, concise language throughout your essay. Avoid passive constructions and vague statements. Focus on showing your achievements through specific examples, rather than simply stating them. Each paragraph should transition smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each section. Ensure that your reflections demonstrate personal growth and the impact of your experiences. Edit for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Strive for originality in your narrative.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences. Authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of overly complex language. Aim for clarity and precision.
• Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall message.