How to Write Your Essay for the Scholarship for Black Students

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, organize your thoughts into four key material buckets:

• Background: Consider your personal history, cultural influences, and formative experiences that have shaped who you are today.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills, leadership, and impact. Use metrics and outcomes to provide evidence of your contributions.
• The Gap: Reflect on areas where you seek growth. What skills or knowledge do you lack, and how will this scholarship help you fill those gaps?
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reveal your values, passions, and motivations. This is your chance to connect with the committee on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered material from the four buckets, create a structured outline. Each section of your essay should focus on a single idea and flow logically to the next. A typical structure might include:

1. An engaging introduction that opens with a specific moment or scene.
2. A background section that provides context for your journey.
3. A detailed account of your achievements, highlighting metrics and outcomes.
4. A discussion of the gap in your knowledge or experience and how the scholarship will help.
5. A conclusion that reflects on your journey and your commitment to making an impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate, demonstrate your passion through concrete examples. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, and ensure that transitions guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights or reflections do you gain from your experiences? How do they relate to your future goals? Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also reflects your growth and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you write and revise, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of vague language that lacks specificity.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences—authenticity is key.
• Ensure each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.