How to Write an Essay for the Pete and Ellen Bensley Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, consider organizing your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any formative experiences that have shaped your aspirations. What unique perspectives do you bring?
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Quantify these achievements where possible, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in terms of skills or experiences that further education will help you bridge. Why is this scholarship essential for your academic journey?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What drives you? What are your passions?

Outline Your Essay

Once you have brainstormed, create a structured outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or scene. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and supports your overall narrative. Conclude by reiterating your commitment to your goals and the impact you wish to achieve through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, and transitions should guide the reader logically through your narrative. Remember to reflect on the significance of each experience—answer the question, “So what?” to highlight why your story matters.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance. Ensure that your essay flows well and that each section contributes to the overall message. Ask yourself if you have effectively communicated your motivations and aspirations. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors to gain fresh perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid common mistakes such as:

• Using generic openers or clichés that fail to engage the reader.
• Neglecting to provide specific examples or metrics to support your claims.
• Overly complex language or passive constructions that obscure your message.
• Failing to connect your experiences back to the scholarship’s goals.