How to Write an Essay for the Alan Douglas Shores Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key material buckets:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped who you are today. Focus on specific moments that influenced your academic and personal journey.
• Achievements: Identify your most significant accomplishments. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your responsibilities and the outcomes of your efforts.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your education or experiences. Explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap and facilitate your academic or career goals.
• Personality: Add humanizing details that reflect your values, interests, and motivations. This could include hobbies, volunteer work, or personal challenges you have overcome.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you’ve gathered your material, create an outline. A strong essay typically follows this structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or anecdote that captures the reader’s attention. Avoid clichés and instead focus on a specific experience that reflects your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and challenges, ensuring each section reflects on what you learned and how it shaped your goals.
3. Conclusion: Reiterate your commitment to your educational and career aspirations. Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and allow you to contribute to your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, leading the reader through your narrative logically. Use clear examples to support your claims and avoid vague statements. Remember to reflect on your experiences and articulate why they matter to your journey.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your essay not only describes your experiences but also reflects on their significance. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Your opening should be unique and engaging.
• Do not rely on vague language or unsupported claims. Use specific details and metrics to substantiate your achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role in your experiences.
• Ensure that your essay is cohesive and logically organized, guiding the reader through your narrative.