Wisconsin Section Awwa University Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather your thoughts by organizing them into four key areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, experiences, and influences that have led you to pursue studies in water management or related fields. What motivated you to choose this path?
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to your studies and community. Quantify your impact where possible—think of projects, leadership roles, or initiatives you've undertaken.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn or experience to reach your goals. Explain why further education is essential for you to fill this gap and make a meaningful impact in the water sector.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, work ethic, and character. This is your chance to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. A suggested outline could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or experience that illustrates your passion for water management.
2. Background: Discuss your journey and what has shaped your interest in this field.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using the STAR method to describe the situation, task, action, and result.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate what you aim to achieve through this scholarship and further education.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making an impact in the water sector and how this scholarship will help you realize your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid clichés and generalizations; instead, focus on detailed examples that showcase your journey and aspirations. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, ensuring clarity and coherence throughout your essay.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every part of your essay answers this question and demonstrates your potential for impact in the water industry. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements that lack evidence or specifics.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity matters.
• Refrain from using clichés or overly sentimental language; focus on concrete experiences instead.