William R Reaugh Memorial Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organizing your thoughts into four material buckets will help you create a well-rounded essay.

• Background: Reflect on your journey in IT. What experiences have shaped your interest in this field? Consider any pivotal moments that ignited your passion.
• Achievements: Identify your accomplishments in IT. Quantify your contributions where possible—did you lead a project, win an award, or improve a process? Metrics lend credibility.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you still need to learn or experience. Why is this scholarship essential for your educational journey? Be specific about how it will help you bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reflect your values and character. What makes you unique? Share anecdotes that reveal your approach to challenges.

Creating an Outline

With your material gathered, outline your essay to ensure a logical flow. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a compelling moment from your background. Then, structure your body paragraphs around each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will impact your future.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be active and engaging. Open with a vivid scene or moment rather than a thesis statement. For example, instead of stating, "I am passionate about IT," describe a specific experience that sparked your interest. Throughout your essay, reflect on what you learned and why it matters, addressing the “So what?” question consistently.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take a break before revising. Read your essay critically, focusing on clarity and coherence. Each paragraph should serve a purpose and contribute to your overall message. Ensure you answer the “So what?” in every section by connecting your experiences back to your aspirations in IT and how the scholarship plays a role in that journey.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague statements. Avoid phrases like “from a young age” or “I have always been passionate about.” Instead, provide specific examples that illustrate your journey. Additionally, steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; keep your writing direct and personal. Lastly, ensure all details are accurate and reflective of your true experiences.