How to Craft Your Essay for the McCall MacBain Fellowship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal and academic history. Consider how your upbringing, education, and experiences have shaped your commitment to sustainable finance.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, particularly those related to finance, sustainability, or leadership. Quantify your achievements where possible—include metrics, responsibilities, and outcomes to showcase your impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek further knowledge or skills. Explain why pursuing this scholarship and attending the Institute for Sustainable Finance is crucial for your development and future contributions to the field.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and motivations. Share specific anecdotes that illustrate your character and drive.

Structuring Your Outline

Organize your material into a coherent outline. Each section should have a clear purpose and flow logically to the next. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or commitment to sustainable finance.
2. Background: Discuss your experiences and how they relate to your interest in this field.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments, emphasizing their relevance to sustainable finance.
4. The Gap: Articulate what you lack and how this fellowship will help bridge that gap.
5. Personality: Share personal stories that connect your journey to your aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a difference in sustainable finance and how the fellowship aligns with your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on concrete details that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, supported by examples and reflections that answer the question, “So what?” This will ensure that your essay is both engaging and insightful.

Revision and Reflection

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your work with fresh eyes. Focus on clarity, coherence, and the strength of your arguments. Ask yourself whether each section effectively contributes to your overall narrative. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of vague language; make sure your passion is backed by specific examples.
• Do not include fabricated facts or experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall message.