How to Write Your Alaska Performance Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your aspirations. Consider how your environment in Alaska has influenced your educational journey.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Include academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community service that demonstrate your leadership and commitment.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or skills that further study will help you fill. Articulate why the Alaska Performance Scholarship is essential for your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This humanizing detail will help the committee connect with you as an individual.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay clearly to guide the reader through your narrative. A logical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey or aspirations.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they have shaped your goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific examples and metrics.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational needs and how this scholarship will bridge that gap.
5. Personality: Weave in personal stories that illustrate your character and values.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific language and details to create a vivid picture for the reader. Avoid clichés and general statements; instead, focus on unique experiences that showcase your individuality. Each paragraph should center around one main idea, ensuring clarity and coherence.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revise your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections convey not just what you did, but why it matters. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain additional perspectives on your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid opening with vague statements or clichés. Start with a concrete moment that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of empty superlatives. Instead of saying you are passionate, demonstrate your passion through specific examples.
• Don’t rely on passive voice. Use active voice to convey your actions and agency clearly.
• Ensure all facts and experiences you mention are accurate and verifiable. Fabricating details can undermine your credibility.