How to Write Your Essay for the Robert Mark Whitton Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant events that sparked your interest in higher education.
• Achievements: Identify your accomplishments. What projects, leadership roles, or academic successes can you highlight? Use metrics and specific examples to demonstrate your impact, such as improvements in a project or community service hours completed.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your educational journey. Be honest about the challenges you face and explain how this scholarship will bridge that gap, enabling you to pursue your studies more effectively.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique? Share moments that illustrate your resilience, determination, or passion for your field of study.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Begin with a specific moment or scene that encapsulates your journey. Avoid generic statements and instead draw the reader in with vivid imagery.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and connects back to how the scholarship will support your goals.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations. Emphasize the significance of the scholarship in achieving these goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and maintain a confident yet humble tone. Show your commitment to your education and future without overstating your achievements. Be specific in your language, using concrete details and numbers where applicable. This will help your essay resonate with the committee.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and coherence. Ensure each section answers the “So what?” question—reflect on what you learned and how it has shaped your aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Start with a strong, specific moment.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences. Authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Limit bureaucratic language; keep your writing clear and engaging.