How to Write Your Essay for the Mission Hills Employee Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, influences, and experiences that have shaped who you are. Consider your family, education, and community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Use metrics and outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or limitations you face and articulate why further education is essential for your growth. Be honest about what you hope to gain from this scholarship.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes and insights that reveal your values and character. This could include hobbies, volunteer work, or pivotal moments that define you.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a moment of significance. Follow with sections that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that ties your experiences to your future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Begin with a concrete moment or scene rather than a thesis statement. Use specific details to illustrate your points and avoid vague language. Each paragraph should convey one clear idea, leading logically to the next.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and reflect on your essay. Does each section answer the “So what?” question? Ensure your reflections on experiences and achievements clearly articulate their significance to your educational journey and future aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language that obscures your message.
• Ensure your essay flows logically, with clear transitions between paragraphs.