How to Write Your Essay for the Charles S. Dickinson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material from the following categories:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational aspirations. Consider pivotal moments that ignited your passion for learning.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics where possible—such as GPA improvements, leadership roles, or community service hours—to showcase your contributions and responsibilities.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experiences. Clearly articulate how the Charles S. Dickinson Scholarship will bridge this gap and enable you to achieve your goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values, interests, and character. This could include anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, creativity, or commitment to your community.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements and aim for specificity.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that each section transitions smoothly to maintain a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and the impact of receiving the scholarship. Emphasize your commitment to using this opportunity to contribute positively to the UMass Amherst community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and precise language. Avoid clichés and generic phrases. Each sentence should serve a purpose, contributing to the overall narrative. Strive for clarity and authenticity, allowing your personality to shine through.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Ensure that your reflections convey why your experiences matter and how they relate to your future goals. Consider seeking feedback from trusted mentors or peers to gain additional perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Starting with clichés or vague statements.
• Failing to provide specific examples or metrics to support your claims.
• Neglecting to connect your background and achievements to the scholarship's objectives.
• Using passive voice or overly complex language that obscures your message.