How to Write an Essay for the Mark Suren Melkonian Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. Consider moments that influenced your commitment to your education.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on quantifiable outcomes. Include leadership roles, projects, or initiatives that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or further education. Explain how this scholarship can help you bridge that gap and enhance your skills.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that highlight your character, values, and unique perspective. This is your opportunity to humanize your application.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Create a clear outline based on your brainstorming. Each section should flow logically, leading the reader through your narrative. Start with an engaging opening that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Follow with the background, achievements, the gap, and conclude with your personality insights. Ensure each paragraph has a single focus and transitions smoothly to the next.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be active and engaging. Avoid passive constructions and vague statements. Use specific examples and metrics where possible to support your claims. Remember to reflect on your experiences—what did you learn, and why does it matter? This reflection is crucial for demonstrating your growth and future potential.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and coherence. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and answers the prompt effectively. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of cliché phrases and empty superlatives. Avoid vague statements about your passions without evidence. Ensure you do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is key; the committee values genuine reflections over exaggerated claims.