How to Write Your Essay for the NAAE Upper Division Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your journey into agricultural education. What experiences shaped your interest? Consider internships, family influences, or community involvement that sparked your passion.
• Achievements: Document significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular pursuits. Quantify your contributions where possible—think about leadership roles, projects, or awards that showcase your dedication and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help you address. Articulate how further study will enhance your skills and knowledge in agricultural education.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Share specific moments that illustrate your commitment to agricultural education and your vision for the future.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in—consider using a specific moment or anecdote. Each subsequent section should focus on one of the four buckets, ensuring a logical flow:

1. Introduction: Hook the reader with a compelling story or moment.
2. Background: Discuss your journey and how it led you to this point.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to achieve through this scholarship.
5. Personality: Share insights into your values and vision.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to agricultural education and the impact you wish to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about agriculture,” illustrate this passion with a specific experience or achievement. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea and transition smoothly to the next, reinforcing the overall narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each section. Ensure that each part of your essay conveys not only what you have done but also why it matters. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain different perspectives and refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid generic openings; start with a specific moment or story.
• Steer clear of clichés and vague assertions about passion.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure clarity and coherence in your writing; each section should contribute to your overall narrative.