How to Craft Your Essay for the Sharen Cutting Shipley Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Structure your brainstorming around the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal life events.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on quantifiable outcomes. Include metrics, leadership roles, and specific responsibilities that highlight your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current educational experience and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and professional aspirations.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include personal anecdotes that reveal your values, character, and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Develop a clear outline based on your brainstorming. Each section of your essay should focus on one of the four buckets. Organize your thoughts logically, ensuring that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Aim for a compelling opening that draws the reader in with a specific moment or scene.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples and reflections. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, with clear transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and assess each section for clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. This reflection will help you articulate why your experiences matter and how they connect to your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays. Avoid using filler language or overly complex sentences. Ensure that your essay is free of clichés and generalizations. Lastly, do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is crucial.