Crafting Your Essay for the Performance Contractors Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring four key material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped who you are today. Consider significant moments, challenges, or influences that have directed your educational and career aspirations.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics, responsibilities, and outcomes to provide concrete evidence of your success.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your knowledge or experience that further study can address. Explain why this scholarship is crucial for you to bridge those gaps and achieve your goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share stories or moments that highlight your unique qualities and how they relate to your academic and career aspirations.

Outlining Your Essay

With your material gathered, create an outline that logically organizes your thoughts. Start with an engaging introduction that opens in-scene, perhaps with a vivid moment from your background. Follow with sections that delve into your achievements, the gap you aim to fill, and your personality. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, adopt an active voice that emphasizes your role in your achievements and experiences. Avoid bureaucratic language; instead, aim for clarity and specificity. Use concrete details and examples to illustrate your points, answering the “So what?” question in each section. This reflection will help the committee understand the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, revise with a critical eye. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and answers the prompt effectively. Ask yourself how your experiences have changed you and why these changes matter. This reflection will deepen your essay's impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay. Avoid clichés and vague statements that lack evidence. Do not use passive voice when you can express your actions actively. Ensure all facts are accurate and relevant to your application. Lastly, steer clear of overly emotional appeals that do not connect back to your qualifications or aspirations.