Mike Gibbons Lynn Schultz Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider challenges you've faced and how they've influenced your goals.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as leadership roles or projects that made a difference.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your education or experiences and explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be honest about your aspirations and how further study will facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that highlight your values, interests, and motivations. This humanizes your application and allows the committee to connect with you on a personal level.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. A suggested structure includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your essence. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a difference. Emphasize the significance of the scholarship in achieving your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Avoid vague terms and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate, demonstrate your passion through your actions and experiences. Each paragraph should focus on one key idea, ensuring clarity and depth.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and revise critically. Ask yourself: What changed in me through these experiences? Why does this matter? Ensure that your essay answers these questions and reflects your growth and future aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Do not exaggerate or invent details about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Ensure your essay is free of bureaucratic language; keep it personal and engaging.