How to Write an Essay for the Shell Oil Company Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by reflecting on the following four buckets:

• Background: Consider key moments in your life that have shaped your academic and career aspirations. What experiences have led you to pursue a degree in process technology?
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, particularly those relevant to your field of study. Include specific metrics, such as grades, projects, or leadership roles that demonstrate your capabilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or skills that the scholarship will help you address. How will this scholarship bridge that gap and propel you toward your goals?
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your character and motivations, making your essay more relatable.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. Start with an engaging introduction that captures the reader's attention. Follow with paragraphs dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each section transitions smoothly into the next. Conclude by reinforcing your commitment to your field and how the scholarship will help you make an impact.

Drafting Voice

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and instead focus on specific experiences that illustrate your points. Open with a concrete moment that highlights your journey or a key realization that led you to this scholarship. Remember to reflect on each experience, explaining why it matters and what you learned.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and depth. Ensure that each paragraph answers the “So what?” question. What insights did you gain from your experiences, and how do they relate to your future goals? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your essay further.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes. Avoid vague statements and superlatives that lack evidence. Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic phrasing. Ensure that every detail in your essay is honest and verifiable; do not invent facts or embellish experiences. Lastly, refrain from using clichéd phrases that detract from the authenticity of your narrative.