How to Craft Your Essay for the Stan and Darlene Sorenson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family, community, and significant events.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in academics, extracurricular activities, or community service. Quantify these achievements where possible—mention specific projects, leadership roles, or awards.
• The Gap: Analyze what you currently lack in your education and how this scholarship will bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and the resources you need to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values, passions, and unique qualities. This is your chance to humanize your application.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one bucket. Use specific examples and reflections to illustrate your points.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations, emphasizing how the scholarship will support your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid generic phrases and focus on telling your unique story. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself: What changed in me? Why does this matter? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, providing insight into your motivations and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Be original in your expression.
• Do not rely on abstract nouns; use active verbs and specific details.
• Steer clear of passive voice; make sure your achievements are clearly attributed to you.
• Do not fabricate any facts or experiences; authenticity is crucial.