How to Craft Your Essay for the Sarah Eber Child Life Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas that will form the backbone of your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped your interest in child life. Consider pivotal moments or influences, such as volunteer work or personal challenges that inspired you.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications. Use metrics and outcomes where possible, such as hours volunteered, projects led, or skills acquired that relate to child life.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you still need to learn or experience. Explain why pursuing further education is essential for your growth and how the scholarship will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values, motivations, and unique perspective. This could include anecdotes that highlight your empathy, resilience, or dedication to helping children.

Structuring Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, outline your essay to ensure a logical flow. Start with a compelling introduction that engages the reader. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, progressing naturally to the next. Use transitions that connect your thoughts clearly.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, aim for an active voice to convey your experiences vividly. Open with a specific moment or scene that illustrates your passion for child life rather than starting with a broad statement. Throughout your essay, reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters to your journey.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflection and clarify your message. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reinforces your suitability for the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague statements. Avoid phrases like “I have always been passionate about” without supporting details. Ensure that your essay reflects your authentic voice and experiences, steering clear of generic language. Lastly, do not invent facts or embellish your achievements—honesty is crucial.