How to Write Your Essay for the Dr. Felix E. Masterson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped who you are today. Consider specific moments or influences that guided your academic and personal growth.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. This could include academic honors, leadership roles, volunteer work, or projects that demonstrate your skills and dedication.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek further development. Discuss what knowledge or skills you hope to gain through your studies at Worcester State University and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Specific details can help the committee see you as a unique individual rather than just a list of qualifications.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Begin with a compelling anecdote or moment that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they have influenced your academic goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific metrics to demonstrate your impact.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to achieve at Worcester State University and how the scholarship will facilitate this.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a positive impact in your community and how this scholarship aligns with your future aspirations.

Drafting Your Essay

As you draft, focus on clarity and specificity. Start with a vivid scene or moment to engage the reader. Use active voice to convey your actions and decisions. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on what each experience taught you and why it matters.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section: what insights or reflections do you offer? Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also connects your experiences to the scholarship’s goals.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, use specific examples to illustrate your points.
• Do not rely on passive voice; always highlight your active role in your achievements.
• Steer clear of bureaucratic language. Keep your writing personal and engaging.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable. Do not invent experiences or accolades.