How to Write an Essay for the Cushing Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key categories:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including family, education, and any formative experiences that have shaped your character and ambitions.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments in academics, extracurricular activities, or community service. Quantify these achievements with metrics where possible, such as leadership roles or awards received.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in terms of skills, knowledge, or experience that further study will help you address. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include humanizing details that reflect your values, interests, and motivations. Specific anecdotes can help illustrate your character.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered material from the four buckets, create an outline that organizes your thoughts logically. Each section should flow into the next, focusing on one main idea per paragraph. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in, followed by sections that cover your background, achievements, the gap, and your personality. Conclude with a strong statement about your future goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are “passionate” about your field, provide concrete examples of what you have done that demonstrates that passion. Remember to reflect on your experiences—what lessons did you learn, and why do they matter?

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each paragraph answers the “So what?” question, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and how they relate to your future. Ask peers or mentors for feedback to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your essay.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and overly complex sentences that obscure your message.
• Ensure that you focus on your unique journey rather than comparing yourself to others.