How to Write Your Essay for the Delta Dental Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped your interest in oral health and wellness. Consider family influences, educational journeys, or pivotal moments that sparked your passion.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments relevant to your field. This could include academic achievements, volunteer work, internships, or leadership roles. Quantify your impact where possible (e.g., “led a team of five in a community health initiative that served 200 families”).
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your current knowledge or experience. Explain why further study is essential for your growth and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your character and values. Share anecdotes that demonstrate your commitment to health and wellness, showcasing your unique perspective.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A suggested outline includes:

1. Introduction: Start with an engaging moment or story that illustrates your connection to oral health. Avoid clichés and aim for a vivid scene.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Use active voice and specific examples to illustrate your points.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for the future, emphasizing your commitment to making a positive impact in the field of oral health and wellness.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on specificity. Avoid vague statements and ensure that every claim is backed by concrete examples. When discussing your achievements, use metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact. Keep the tone professional yet personal, allowing your individuality to shine through.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, review your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” at the end of each section. Ensure that your reflections convey why your experiences matter and how they relate to the scholarship’s goals. Seek feedback from mentors or peers, and be open to making revisions that enhance clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language that can dilute your message.
• Ensure that each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall argument.