How to Craft Your Essay for the Dorothy Leidner Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. Consider experiences that shaped your educational journey, such as family influences, challenges faced, or pivotal moments that fueled your desire to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. This could include academic achievements, leadership roles, volunteer work, or projects that had a measurable impact. Use specific metrics or outcomes to quantify your contributions.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational journey and how the scholarship can bridge that gap. Be honest about your needs, whether financial or academic, and articulate why further study is essential for your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reflect your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal your passions, interests, and what drives you. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your personal history and influences.
3. Achievements: Highlight significant accomplishments and their impact.
4. The Gap: Explain your current challenges and how the scholarship will help.
5. Personality: Share personal values and insights that shape who you are.
6. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to your goals and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements and instead focus on concrete examples. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. Remember to reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself: “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every part of your essay contributes to the overall narrative and answers the question of why you deserve this scholarship. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your essay.
• Do not use passive voice when you can express actions actively.
• Steer clear of bureaucratic language that obscures your message.
• Ensure all details are accurate and reflective of your true experiences.