Margaret Harwick Jacks Endowed Aging Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To effectively structure your essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that shaped your interest in aging. Consider family stories, volunteer work, or personal encounters with elderly individuals.
• Achievements: List accomplishments related to your academic and community involvement. Quantify your impact where possible, such as hours volunteered or initiatives led.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your knowledge or experience regarding aging and how further study will bridge this gap. Be specific about your academic and career aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that highlight your values and character. This could include challenges you've overcome or moments that inspired your commitment to the field.

Outlining Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging opening that draws in the reader—perhaps a vivid scene or a poignant moment related to aging. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a strong statement about your future goals and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Tone

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead of stating your passion, demonstrate it through your experiences and insights. Ensure that every section answers the question, “So what?”—reflect on why your experiences matter and how they relate to your goals in the field of aging.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity and coherence. Ensure each paragraph transitions smoothly and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if each section effectively communicates your motivations and aspirations. If possible, seek feedback from mentors or peers.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of overly complex language; clarity is key.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
• Ensure your essay stays focused on the prompt and does not veer off into unrelated topics.