How to Write Your Essay for the Valorie Wolcott Mendelson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by reflecting on the following four buckets:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your interest in psychology? Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments relevant to psychology. Use metrics and outcomes to illustrate your contributions, such as volunteer hours, leadership roles, or projects.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your knowledge or experience that further education will help you address. Explain why this scholarship is crucial for your academic journey.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've faced and how they have impacted your perspective.

Crafting an Outline

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or anecdote. Follow with body paragraphs that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a reflection on your journey and the impact you aim to make in the field of psychology.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice to create a sense of immediacy and engagement. Avoid vague statements; instead, provide specific examples and details that demonstrate your points. Ensure that your passion for psychology is evident through your experiences and aspirations, rather than through empty declarations.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay to refine your message. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections convey not just what you have done, but also how those experiences will influence your future contributions to the field. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain perspective on clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; ensure your writing is dynamic and engaging.
• Ensure your essay maintains a coherent structure, with logical transitions between paragraphs.