How to Write Your Essay for the Arlene A. Winfield Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four essential buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that shaped your desire to pursue your studies. Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant life events.
• Achievements: Document your accomplishments, both academically and in extracurricular activities. Quantify your achievements where possible, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship can bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and the resources you need to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values and character. This could include volunteer work, challenges you’ve overcome, or moments that defined your commitment to your field.

Creating an Outline

Once you’ve gathered your material, outline your essay to ensure a logical flow. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a specific moment or story that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring you include reflections on what you learned and how it has shaped your goals.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to your education and how the scholarship will help you make an impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying, “I have always wanted to help others,” describe a specific instance where you made a difference. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions logically to the next.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections clearly convey why your experiences matter and how they relate to your future goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to making significant changes if necessary.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Do not exaggerate your experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice and vague language.
• Ensure that every paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.