Wisconsin National Guard Enlisted Association College Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Divide your brainstorming into four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider your military service, family history, or community involvement that has shaped your identity. What experiences have influenced your decision to pursue further education?
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership and commitment. Quantify these where possible—think about roles you’ve held, projects you’ve led, or awards you’ve received.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education that this scholarship will help you address. Why is further study essential for your career goals within or outside the National Guard?
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your character and commitment to service.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A typical outline might look like this:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your experiences and how they shaped your educational aspirations.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their impact.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate what you aim to achieve through further education.
5. Personality: Conclude with insights into your character and values.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, ensuring clarity and logical flow. Remember to include reflections on why your experiences matter and how they relate to your goals.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself: does each section answer the “So what?” question? Ensure that your reflections connect your past experiences to your future aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, focusing on clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and generic statements. Avoid phrases like “From a young age” or “I have always been passionate about.” Ensure that every claim you make is backed by specific evidence or examples. Lastly, do not fabricate any details about your experiences or achievements.