How to Craft Your Essay for the Arthur J. Gallagher Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material by reflecting on four key areas:

• Background: Identify experiences that have shaped your interest in risk management or housing. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. This could include academic achievements, leadership roles, or relevant projects that demonstrate your skills.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help you address. Be specific about how further study will enable you to achieve your goals.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that showcase your values, interests, and motivations. Think about what makes you unique and how that can contribute to your field.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they relate to risk management.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments with specific details and outcomes.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to achieve through this scholarship and how it fits into your career aspirations.
5. Personality: Share insights into who you are as a person, including values and motivations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express commitment to making an impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and concrete language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about risk management, provide a specific example of an experience that ignited your interest. Ensure each paragraph focuses on one idea, leading logically to the next.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and evaluate your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does it convey why your experiences matter? Make sure every part of your essay ties back to your main message and demonstrates your potential impact in the field.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate your achievements or invent experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Ensure your essay is free from bureaucratic language; keep it personal and engaging.