How to Write Your Essay for the Tarleton HPC Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts using the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: What experiences have shaped your interest in high-performance computing? Consider academic, personal, or professional influences.
• Achievements: List your relevant accomplishments, such as projects, internships, or coursework. Include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of knowledge or resources and explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share unique aspects of yourself, such as values, interests, or experiences that contribute to your character and motivation.

Outline Your Essay

Creating an outline will help ensure your essay flows logically. Start with a compelling introduction that captures the reader's attention. Then, structure your body paragraphs around the four material buckets, dedicating each section to a specific idea. Conclude with a strong closing paragraph that reinforces your commitment to your goals and the significance of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Begin with an engaging in-scene moment or a specific anecdote that relates to your journey in high-performance computing. Avoid generic statements and instead, reflect on your personal growth and insights. Be specific about your achievements, using numbers and timeframes where possible.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, checking for clarity and coherence. Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question—what changed in you, and why does it matter? Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague language. Avoid phrases like “I have always been passionate about” or “Since childhood.” Focus on specific experiences and outcomes instead. Additionally, steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; use active verbs to convey your actions and impact. Lastly, do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key.