How to Write Your Essay for the PlaceWorks Scholarship Program

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material from these four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your academic and personal life. Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that showcase your skills and dedication. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “Led a project that improved efficiency by 20%”).
• The Gap: Analyze what gaps exist in your current education or experience. How will the PlaceWorks Scholarship help you bridge these gaps and achieve your goals?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique? How do your experiences inform your aspirations?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss formative experiences that have influenced your educational path.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and what they mean to you.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational needs and how the scholarship will help.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your future goals and the impact of receiving the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your actions and decisions. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always wanted to help others,” provide a specific example of how you have done so. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and transitions smoothly to the next.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself: “So what?” for each section. What insights or reflections have you gained? Make sure your essay not only tells your story but also demonstrates your potential for impact in your field and community.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Failing to provide specific examples or metrics.
• Neglecting to connect your past experiences to your future goals.
• Using passive voice or overly complex language.