How to Write an Essay for Dave's Supermarkets Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts using the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider key moments in your life that have shaped your educational journey. What challenges have you faced? How have these experiences influenced your goals?
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Include specific examples, such as leadership roles, community service, or academic honors.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack and how further study at Cuyahoga Community College will help you bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational or career aspirations.
• Personality: Humanize your essay with details that reflect your values and interests. What makes you unique? How do your experiences inform your perspective?

Outline Your Essay

Create a clear outline based on the materials gathered. Each section should have a purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that illustrates your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one idea. Use the STAR method to describe achievements and challenges, ensuring clarity on your actions and their outcomes.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for future success and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, emphasizing your role in your achievements and experiences. Use specific details to illustrate your points, and avoid vague language. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining logical progression throughout the essay.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and impact. For each section, ask yourself: “So what?” Ensure that your reflections are meaningful and demonstrate how your experiences will contribute to your future and the community.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not provide insight into your character. Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable. Do not exaggerate achievements or fabricate experiences, as authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.