How to Craft Your Essay for the Barbara Emerich Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, explore the four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider significant moments or influences that have guided your academic journey.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Think about leadership roles, community service, or academic successes that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. What knowledge or skills do you hope to gain through further education? Explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal your passions and motivations, making you relatable to the committee.

Creating an Outline

With your material gathered, outline your essay. Organize your thoughts logically, ensuring each section flows into the next. Start with a compelling introduction that draws the reader in, followed by paragraphs dedicated to each of the four buckets. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the impact of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, focus on clarity and specificity. Use active voice to convey your actions and achievements. Open with an engaging scene or moment that captures your reader's attention. Throughout your essay, reflect on your experiences and articulate why they matter. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples that illustrate your points.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section of your essay. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reflects your growth and aspirations. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors to gain fresh perspectives and improve clarity.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay's effectiveness:

• Avoid generic statements that lack personal connection.
• Steer clear of overly complex language that may confuse the reader.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is key.
• Refrain from using passive voice when an active subject can enhance engagement.