How to Craft Your Essay for the SAWWA Annual Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to build a strong narrative:

• Background: Consider what experiences shaped your interest in water management. This could include personal stories, community involvement, or academic influences.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment and skills. Use metrics and outcomes to highlight your impact, such as projects completed, leadership roles held, or relevant coursework.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn and how further education will help you bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and professional goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. This could include anecdotes that showcase your resilience, teamwork, or passion for the field.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay with a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or scene related to your journey. Follow with sections that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to the field and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about water management, describe a project that ignited this passion and what you learned from it. Ensure that your writing reflects clarity and purpose, guiding the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself: What changed in me, and why does it matter? Each section should clearly answer this question, demonstrating growth and insight. Look for opportunities to tighten your prose, eliminate redundancy, and enhance clarity.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include unverifiable facts or embellishments about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; ensure your writing is dynamic and engaging.
• Neglecting to proofread can lead to avoidable errors—always review your work before submission.