How to Write Your Essay for the Beverly Bradford Family Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by reflecting on the following four areas:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, educational journey, and any significant experiences that have shaped your perspective. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your goals?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and personal life. Use specific metrics and examples—such as grades, leadership roles, or community service—that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or skills that further study will help you address. Why is this scholarship essential for your academic journey and future career?
• Personality: Share personal details that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This could include hobbies, volunteer work, or unique experiences that highlight who you are beyond academics.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections based on the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude by tying your background, achievements, and aspirations back to the scholarship's purpose.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, using specific examples to illustrate your points. Avoid generic statements; instead, provide evidence of your claims. Each section should reflect your growth and insight, answering the question of why your experiences matter. Remember to maintain a forward-looking perspective, showing how the scholarship will enable your future contributions.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does it clearly convey your journey, insights, and future aspirations? Ensure that your reflections are deep and meaningful, connecting your past experiences to your future goals. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to refine clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate, show how your actions reflect that passion.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active voice to highlight your role in your achievements.
• Do not fabricate experiences or embellish details. Authenticity is crucial in making a genuine connection with the committee.