How to Write Your Essay for the Douglas Arthur Vest Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider what experiences have shaped your educational path. Reflect on your family, community, and any challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Quantify these where possible—mention awards, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Think critically about what you currently lack in your education and how this scholarship can help bridge that gap. Articulate your goals and how further study at Waubonsee will help you achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reflect your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, determination, and commitment to your education.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, organize it into a structured outline. A typical format might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements and focus on a specific instance that reflects your motivations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to a specific bucket. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and challenges, ensuring each section ties back to your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future. Reiterate your commitment to your education and the positive change you hope to bring to your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and a reflective tone. Use specific examples and avoid vague language. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, ensuring clarity and logical progression. As you write, continually ask yourself, “So what?” to ensure each detail contributes to your overall message.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity, specificity, and impact. Ensure every paragraph answers the “So what?” question, illustrating why your experiences matter and how they connect to your educational goals.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of vague language and unsupported claims about your passions or experiences.
• Do not use passive voice; always strive for an active, engaging tone.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable.