How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Jarosewycz Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Before drafting, gather material that fits into the four key buckets:

• Background: Consider experiences that shaped your identity, particularly those related to Ukrainian culture or community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments, such as academic successes, leadership roles, or community service, and quantify these where possible (e.g., “led a team of 10 volunteers” or “achieved a GPA of 3.8”).
• The Gap: Reflect on what you lack in your current education or experience and how further study will help you bridge that gap. Be clear about your goals and how this scholarship will facilitate them.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that showcase your values, interests, and motivations. This could be a personal story or a moment that inspired your educational journey.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. A potential outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your connection to your heritage or educational aspirations.
2. Background: Discuss your upbringing and experiences that relate to the Ukrainian community.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, linking them to your future goals.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate what you hope to achieve through the scholarship and further study.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a positive impact in your community or field.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice and concrete details to engage the reader. Avoid vague statements and focus on specific examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should center around a single idea and smoothly transition to the next, maintaining a logical flow throughout your essay.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself: “So what?” after each section. Ensure that your reflections convey why your experiences and aspirations matter, both to you and to the scholarship committee. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on unique experiences that set you apart.
• Do not fabricate details or exaggerate achievements; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Ensure clarity and coherence by adhering to the outlined structure and maintaining focus on the prompt throughout your essay.