How to Craft Your Essay for the Noah Jon Markstrom Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational path. What significant moments can you share that illustrate your journey?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics or specific examples to demonstrate your contributions and the impact you've made.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational journey. How will this scholarship bridge that gap? Be specific about how further study aligns with your career aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique? How do your experiences inform your outlook on education and community?

Structuring Your Outline

With your material gathered, structure your essay into a coherent outline. Each section should serve a distinct purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that draws the reader in. Avoid generic statements; instead, set the stage for your narrative.
2. Body Paragraphs: Organize your thoughts into clear sections based on the four buckets. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, using specific examples to support your claims.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations. How does receiving this scholarship align with your goals? End with a strong statement that reinforces your commitment to making an impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific details and metrics to support your claims, avoiding vague language and clichés. Ensure that your personality shines through—let your values and aspirations guide your narrative. Remember, clarity is key; your message should be easily understood and resonate with the committee.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

Once your draft is complete, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Does your essay convey meaningful insights about your journey and aspirations? Revise for clarity, coherence, and impact. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or peers to enhance your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, watch out for these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements that do not engage the reader.
• Steer clear of vague language; be specific about your achievements and aspirations.
• Do not rely on passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are authentic and verifiable; do not embellish your narrative.