How to Write Your Essay for the Marilyn J. Back Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To construct a thoughtful essay, gather material across these four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including challenges you’ve faced and experiences that have shaped your educational goals.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments, whether academic, extracurricular, or community-oriented. Use metrics or examples to illustrate your contributions.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack that further education will address. Be clear about how this scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Specific anecdotes can help humanize your narrative.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A possible outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your personal history and formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight your notable accomplishments and their impact.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational and financial needs.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and the significance of receiving this scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. Avoid clichés and ensure that your passion is backed by specific examples. Instead of stating your passion for education, illustrate it through your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise. Each section should answer the question “So what?”—why does your story matter? Ensure that your insights are clear and impactful. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your narrative further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be aware of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements about your passion or goals without evidence.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Do not include fabricated details or awards; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from using generic openers; start with a specific moment that draws the reader in.