How to Craft Your Essay for the Arline Lanois O'Brien Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant events that motivated you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify your most significant accomplishments, both academically and personally. Quantify these achievements where possible—mention awards, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your dedication and impact.
• The Gap: Assess what you lack in your current educational journey. This could be specific skills, experiences, or resources that further study will help you obtain. Clearly articulate why this scholarship is essential for your growth.
• Personality: Share unique aspects of yourself that reveal your values and character. Use specific anecdotes to illustrate your resilience, creativity, or commitment to community service.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and coherence. A suggested outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or story that illustrates your motivation for applying, avoiding clichés and general statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Use specific examples and reflections to support your points.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship aligns with your goals and reiterate your commitment to making a positive impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

Maintain an active voice throughout your essay. Use concrete language and avoid abstract nouns that can dilute your message. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, ensuring a logical flow from one section to the next. Engage the reader with specific details that highlight your journey and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take a step back and evaluate it critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections convey not just what you did, but how it has shaped you and why it matters for your future. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your narrative and clarity.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Instead, ground your opening in a specific experience.
• Steer clear of vague language. Use precise metrics and details to substantiate your claims.
• Do not invent experiences or embellish achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.