How to Write Your Essay for the New Canadian Education Award

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: What experiences have shaped your identity and aspirations? Consider family, culture, and community influences.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience and how further study will help you bridge this gap.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and character.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline for your essay. Structure it logically, ensuring each section flows into the next. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or insight that relates to your journey.
2. Background: Discuss formative experiences that shaped your educational goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that demonstrate your readiness for further study.
4. The Gap: Explain what challenges you face and how the scholarship will help you overcome them.
5. Personality: Share a personal story that illustrates your character and values.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and how this scholarship will help you make a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples and details to engage the reader. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on concrete moments that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does your essay reflect your growth, insights, and aspirations? Ensure that your reflections answer the prompt effectively and connect your experiences to the scholarship’s goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls while writing your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Don’t exaggerate achievements or fabricate details; honesty is crucial.
• Steer clear of overly complex language; clarity is key.
• Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.