How to Write Your Essay for the Town & Country Bank Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, significant experiences, and influences that have shaped who you are today. Consider specific moments that highlight your resilience or commitment to your education.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments, such as academic successes, leadership roles, or community service. Use metrics and specific outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your experience that further study will help you address. This could be a lack of resources, knowledge, or skills that you aim to overcome through your education.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that convey your values, interests, and motivations. This is your chance to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. Each section should focus on one of the four buckets:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or experience that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements; instead, draw the reader in with vivid details.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each bucket. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for the future. Emphasize your commitment to making a positive impact through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are “passionate” about something, illustrate this passion with concrete examples. Reflect on what you’ve learned through your experiences and why they matter to your future.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Ensure that each section contributes to a cohesive narrative and reinforces your suitability for the scholarship. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic phrases or clichés.
• Ensure all details are truthful and verifiable; do not fabricate experiences or achievements.
• Stay focused on the prompt and the scholarship’s purpose throughout your essay.
• Limit passive voice and abstract language; favor clarity and specificity.