How to Craft Your Essay for the BPW/WA Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider your personal history, including significant experiences that shaped your educational journey. What motivated you to pursue your field of study?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and professional life. Quantify your achievements where possible—think about leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to achieve your goals. What specific knowledge or skills do you seek to gain from further education? How does this scholarship help bridge that gap?
• Personality: Include personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What unique perspectives do you bring to your field? How do your experiences inform your approach to challenges?

Structuring Your Outline

Your essay should have a clear structure. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene with a specific moment or experience. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude by tying your experiences and aspirations back to the scholarship's goals.

Drafting Voice and Tone

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific examples that illustrate your points. Ensure that your passion for your field is backed by concrete experiences and reflections. Each section should answer the question, “So what?” to emphasize the significance of your journey.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Look for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly and that your conclusion reinforces your commitment to your educational and professional goals. Ask yourself if your essay communicates your unique story effectively.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements and clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not use passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself.
• Ensure all facts and experiences you include are accurate and verifiable.
• Steer clear of excessive jargon or overly complex language that may obscure your message.