How to Write Your Essay for the Mattie's Way Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by addressing the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational aspirations. Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal moments that motivated you.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use specific metrics, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or academic honors to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your education or experience that this scholarship would help address. Articulate why further study is essential for your growth and how the scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and character. This is your opportunity to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay for clarity and impact. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or story that draws the reader in.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and motivations.
3. Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Explain the challenges you face and how the scholarship will help.
5. Personality: Offer insights into who you are beyond your achievements.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express gratitude for the opportunity.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and ensure that each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points, avoiding vague statements. Your goal is to create a narrative that not only informs but also engages the reader.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take time to revise. Focus on clarity, coherence, and emotional impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section: What insights do you want the committee to take away? Ensure that your reflections answer this question effectively.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice where possible; always highlight your actions.
• Refrain from using bureaucratic language; keep your writing personal and relatable.