How to Write Your Essay for the Bank of America Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on key experiences that shaped your academic and personal journey. Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant events.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on quantifiable metrics. Highlight leadership roles, academic successes, or community service, and describe the impact of these achievements.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you bridge. Articulate why further study is essential for your goals.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that showcase your values, interests, and unique perspective. This could include hobbies, volunteer work, or personal challenges you've overcome.

Outlining Your Essay

Draft an outline that organizes your ideas logically. Each section of your essay should have a clear focus. Start with a strong introduction that hooks the reader, followed by sections dedicated to each of the four buckets. Ensure that your conclusion ties back to your main theme and emphasizes your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice and maintain a confident yet reflective tone. Avoid clichés and generalizations. Instead of stating your passion, illustrate it with specific examples. Use vivid language to create a sense of immediacy and connection with the reader.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Focus on clarity and coherence. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point to ensure that you are conveying the significance of your experiences and aspirations. This reflection will help you refine your message and strengthen your argument.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid vague statements about your passions or goals. Instead, provide concrete examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your direct involvement in your achievements.
• Do not fabricate details or experiences—authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.