How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Blue Ribbon Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a comprehensive essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing and experiences that have shaped your interest in agriculture, community service, or the Wisconsin State Fair. Consider family traditions, local events, or personal stories that connect you to this context.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on those relevant to the scholarship. Include metrics or specific outcomes, such as leadership roles in school clubs, community service hours, or awards related to agriculture or the fair.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experiences that this scholarship would help address. Explain how attending the Wisconsin State Fair or pursuing related studies will fill this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that highlight your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal who you are beyond your achievements, emphasizing your commitment to your community and future goals.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with a compelling introduction that captures attention through a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a reflection on how this scholarship will impact your future and your contributions to the community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should serve a purpose, leading the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on how each experience has shaped your goals and aspirations, answering the “So what?” question throughout your essay.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ensure that each section connects back to the scholarship’s mission and your personal journey. Ask yourself if your essay clearly communicates your motivations and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid cliché openers and filler phrases. Start with a concrete moment that engages the reader.
• Steer clear of vague language about your passions. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable; do not invent details.