Breathing Tomorrow Lung Cancer Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider your personal history. What experiences have shaped your understanding of lung cancer? Perhaps you have a family member affected by it, or you’ve engaged in community service related to health awareness.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that reflect your capabilities. This could include academic performance, volunteer work, or leadership roles that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experiences. How will this scholarship help bridge that gap? Be specific about your educational goals and how they relate to your aspirations in the context of lung cancer awareness or research.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your character. What values drive you? Consider sharing anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, empathy, or dedication.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your materials, create an outline to structure your essay. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice that conveys your message clearly. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, use specific examples and measurable outcomes. For instance, rather than saying you are passionate about lung cancer awareness, describe a specific project you undertook and its impact. Reflect on what you learned from these experiences and why they matter.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself: “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that each section not only presents information but also reflects on its significance. This will help you articulate how your experiences have prepared you for future challenges and how the scholarship will enable you to contribute to the field.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid vague statements and generalizations. Every claim should be backed by specific examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language. Keep your writing direct and engaging.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.