How to Write Your Essay for the Howard Hughes Community Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the four key buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your formative experiences that have shaped your educational and career goals. Consider family influences, community involvement, or personal challenges.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Quantify your impact where possible, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or skills acquired.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or skills that this scholarship could help you address. Be specific about how further study will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values, motivations, and unique perspective. This could include anecdotes that illustrate your character and drive.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or scene from your life. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and flows logically to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your educational goals and the impact of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, focus on concrete examples and reflections. Each paragraph should center on one idea, progressing logically to build your narrative. Remember to answer the “So what?” question by reflecting on how your experiences have shaped your aspirations and why they matter.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure each section contributes to your overall message and reflects your unique journey. Ask yourself if each paragraph answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid clichés and vague language that do not add depth to your essay. Steer clear of passive voice and overly bureaucratic phrasing. Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable; do not invent details about your background or experiences. Finally, be mindful of the scholarship's specific focus and tailor your essay to align with its values and goals.