How to Craft Your Essay for the Oatey Company Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Utilize the four material buckets to gather relevant content for your essay:

• Background: Identify key experiences that have shaped who you are. Consider your family, education, and community influences.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Focus on measurable outcomes, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey. This could be specific skills, experiences, or resources that further study will help you acquire.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the stage for your narrative. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the value of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Begin with a compelling moment or story that draws the reader in. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples that demonstrate your points. Each paragraph should communicate a single idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and impact. Ensure that every section answers the question, “So what?” Reflect on how your experiences and aspirations connect to the scholarship’s purpose. Seek feedback from peers or mentors and be open to constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid generic statements and clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice and overly complex sentences that obscure your message.
• Ensure your essay stays focused on the prompt and aligns with the scholarship's goals.