How to Write Your Essay for the Raven Fund General Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, cultural influences, and formative experiences that have shaped your educational aspirations.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments, such as academic successes, leadership roles, or community service. Use specific metrics where possible, like GPA, project outcomes, or hours volunteered.
• The Gap: Discuss what you currently lack in your education or experiences and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be honest about your needs and articulate a clear vision for your future.
• Personality: Include personal anecdotes that showcase your values and character. This could be a moment that illustrates your resilience, creativity, or commitment to your community.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Each section of your essay should focus on one main idea. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or story. Follow with paragraphs that explore each of the four buckets, ensuring logical flow and coherence. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your goals and the impact of the scholarship on your future.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your first draft, aim for an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” share a specific experience that ignited your passion. Use reflective language to convey what you learned from each experience and why it matters.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and that you clearly articulate your goals and the significance of the scholarship in achieving them.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be aware of common pitfalls in scholarship essays:

• Avoid generic statements that do not provide specific insights into your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; make sure your actions and achievements are highlighted.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from using overly complex language or jargon that may obscure your message.