How to Write an Effective PFLAG Denver Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by considering the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: What experiences or influences have shaped your understanding of LGBTQ+ issues? Consider family, community, or personal experiences that have informed your perspective.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that showcase your leadership, advocacy, or contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. Use metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain how the scholarship will help bridge this gap and advance your educational and personal goals.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reflect your values, interests, and unique qualities. This can include hobbies, volunteer work, or personal anecdotes that highlight your character.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure a logical flow of ideas. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that illustrates your connection to the LGBTQ+ community.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they relate to the scholarship's mission.
3. Achievements: Detail your accomplishments and their significance in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals.
4. The Gap: Explain what you hope to achieve through further education and how this scholarship will facilitate that journey.
5. Personality: Incorporate personal anecdotes that reveal your character and values.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a positive impact in the LGBTQ+ community and how the scholarship will help you fulfill that promise.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, specific language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about LGBTQ+ issues, provide examples of your involvement and its impact. Use vivid imagery and personal stories to engage the reader and convey your message effectively.

Revision and Reflection: The “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph answers this question by demonstrating your growth, insight, and commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. Revise for clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Starting with clichés or generic statements that do not engage the reader.
• Failing to provide specific examples that support your claims.
• Neglecting to reflect on your experiences and their significance.
• Using passive voice or overly complex sentences that obscure your message.
• Forgetting to proofread for grammatical errors and clarity.