How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Mary E. Erlenborn Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across these four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family influences, cultural heritage, and formative experiences that shaped your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics where possible, such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours, to illustrate your contributions.
• The Gap: Consider what you lack in your current education or experiences that this scholarship could help fulfill. This could include financial support, access to resources, or opportunities for growth.
• Personality: Think about the values and traits that define you. Share anecdotes that reveal your character, resilience, and commitment to making a difference.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, structure your essay effectively. A suggested outline includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that illustrates your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Background: Discuss your personal history and how it influenced your academic ambitions.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your impact.
4. The Gap: Articulate your educational needs and how the scholarship will help bridge these gaps.
5. Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to using your education for positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice to convey your experiences and aspirations. Be specific and reflective in your language, ensuring clarity and engagement. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on concrete details that illustrate your points. Your essay should narrate your journey while answering the question, “So what?”—demonstrating why your experiences matter.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revise with a critical eye. Ensure each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if you are effectively answering the prompt and if your reflections provide insight into your character and goals. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or peers to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or vague statements. Open with a strong, specific moment.
• Steer clear of passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is key.
• Ensure clarity and coherence in your essay structure, with each section logically flowing into the next.