How to Craft Your Essay for the Dick French Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped who you are. Consider family influences, educational experiences, and significant events that have motivated you.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Quantify these achievements where possible—mention awards, leadership roles, or projects that showcase your skills and impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your experience. Discuss what you hope to achieve through further education and how this scholarship will help bridge those gaps.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Share moments that illustrate your resilience, commitment, and passion for your field of study.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically to guide the reader through your narrative. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or story that captures your journey and sets the stage for your essay.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail specific situations, tasks, actions, and results related to your achievements and experiences.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations. Connect your past experiences and current goals to the potential impact of receiving the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and ensure each sentence contributes to your overall narrative. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific details and outcomes that demonstrate your growth and potential. Remember to answer the “So what?” question—why do your experiences matter?

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance in your writing. Ensure each paragraph transitions smoothly and reinforces your overall message. Ask yourself how each section contributes to your narrative and the significance of your experiences. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain new perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements that lack specificity. Instead, focus on unique experiences that set you apart.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active verbs to convey your actions and impact.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
• Finally, ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and typos, as these can detract from your message.