How to Write Your Essay for the Mary Virginia Hurtt Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, significant life events, or challenges you've overcome.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or examples to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects, or community service.
• The Gap: Analyze what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship could help fill. Be honest about your needs and articulate how further study will bridge these gaps.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes or insights that illustrate who you are beyond your achievements.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. A common format includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what receiving this scholarship would mean for your future. Reinforce your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be clear and engaging. Use an active voice and avoid bureaucratic language. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, and your sentences should flow logically. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, emphasizing why your experiences and aspirations matter.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and emotional impact. Ask yourself if each section effectively conveys your message and if it answers the prompt. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Start with a unique moment that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion. Support your claims with concrete examples and metrics.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists. This makes your writing stronger and more direct.