How to Write Your Oertel Baseball Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, key experiences, and influences that have shaped your journey. Consider moments that highlight your commitment to education and baseball.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, both academically and athletically. Include metrics such as GPA, awards, or leadership roles in baseball teams.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and how the scholarship will bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how this support will help you achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This humanizes your application and makes it relatable.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Follow with sections that address each of the four material buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your educational and athletic goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice to convey your experiences and aspirations. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide specific examples and details. Aim for clarity and sincerity in your writing, making sure each sentence contributes to your overall narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph reflects your growth and how it relates to your future. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message further.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes, such as:

• Using clichés or generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Failing to connect your background and achievements to your future goals.
• Neglecting to proofread for grammar and clarity.