How to Write Your Essay for the Mary M. Reardon Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across the following four buckets:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Reflect on your upbringing, community, and any challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Focus on metrics and outcomes—what did you achieve, and how did it impact your community or personal development?
• The Gap: Identify areas where you feel further study is necessary. What skills or knowledge do you lack that this scholarship will help you acquire? Be specific about how this scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Incorporate humanizing details that reveal your values and character. What motivates you? What are your passions? Use anecdotes to illustrate your personality.

Creating an Outline

With your material in hand, create a structured outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or shares a pivotal moment in your life. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each of the four buckets. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow throughout your essay.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, focus on active voice and specificity. Instead of stating, "I have always been passionate about education," share a concrete example of a time you demonstrated that passion. Use numbers and timeframes to add credibility. Remember to answer the “So what?” question—reflect on what you learned from your experiences and why they matter in the context of this scholarship.

Revision and Reflection

After drafting, take a step back before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity and coherence. Ensure each paragraph has a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism. Revisit your reflections to ensure they align with your goals and the scholarship’s mission.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid clichés and vague statements that lack substance. Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; keep your writing engaging and direct. Do not invent facts or embellish your achievements—authenticity is key. Lastly, ensure that every part of your essay serves a purpose and contributes to your overall message.