How to Craft Your Essay for the Ralph A. Lewin Poster Award

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To effectively structure your essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Identify experiences that have shaped your interest in phycology. Consider pivotal moments, mentors, or challenges that led you to this field.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments related to your studies or research in phycology. Use metrics and outcomes to demonstrate your contributions, such as participation in projects, presentations, or relevant coursework.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn or achieve in your educational journey. Explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap and enhance your future contributions to the field.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and motivations. Share insights that show your commitment to phycology and your aspirations for real-world impact.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Organize your thoughts logically, ensuring each section flows into the next. Start with a compelling introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or insight, rather than a general statement. Follow with body paragraphs that address each of the four material buckets, ensuring clarity and coherence in your argument.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, focus on concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should revolve around a single idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections connect back to the scholarship's goals and your future in phycology. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism and help refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes when writing your scholarship essay:

• Avoid using clichés or generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure clarity and coherence in your writing; avoid overly complex language or jargon.