How to Craft Your Essay for the Christopher Mark Pitkin Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas that will form the backbone of your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your personal journey. How has hemophilia impacted your life or the lives of those around you? Consider specific moments that shaped your perspective.
• Achievements: Highlight your educational and personal accomplishments. Use metrics where possible—such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours—to demonstrate your dedication and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you hope to achieve through further education. What skills or knowledge do you lack that this scholarship will help you gain? Be specific about your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character. What values drive you? What unique experiences contribute to your perspective?

Outline Your Essay Structure

Craft a clear outline that flows logically. Each section of your essay should have a purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene from your life that relates to hemophilia. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use transitions to guide the reader through your narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how this scholarship will help you achieve your goals and make a positive impact on others.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Use specific examples to illustrate your points. Avoid vague statements about passion or commitment; instead, show how your actions reflect these qualities. Aim for a tone that is confident yet humble, emphasizing your readiness for future challenges.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself: What insights have I gained? Why does my story matter? Ensure that each section answers these questions and contributes to a cohesive narrative. Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your essay.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to engage the reader.
• Ensure that every paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall argument.