How to Write an Essay for the Richard J. Feltes Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, consider organizing your thoughts into four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant events that inspired your academic pursuits.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that showcase your skills and dedication. Use measurable outcomes, such as GPA, awards, or leadership roles, to provide concrete evidence of your capabilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience and explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and professional goals and how they relate to your future.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Share moments that illustrate your resilience, empathy, or commitment to service.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered material from the four buckets, create an outline to organize your thoughts. A strong structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or a specific moment that captures the reader's attention and sets the stage for your story.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that each section flows logically to the next, maintaining a coherent narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your aspirations. Emphasize how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals and contribute to your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, and transitions should guide the reader through your narrative. Ensure your tone is reflective and forward-looking, demonstrating your commitment to personal growth and community impact.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting your essay, take a step back and revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insight or reflection does this paragraph offer? Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also conveys why it matters to the scholarship committee. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid clichéd openings and filler phrases that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without concrete examples to back them up.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists; this weakens your writing.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and relevant to your experiences.