How to Write an Essay for the Dr. David Wells Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, explore the following four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational path. Consider challenges you've faced and how they have influenced your goals.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and professional life. Use specific metrics or examples to demonstrate your impact, such as projects completed, leadership roles, or community service.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your education or experience that the scholarship will help you address. Be clear about why further study is essential for your personal and professional development.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, passions, and motivations. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that illustrates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your experiences and challenges that have led you to pursue further education.
3. Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your readiness for this opportunity.
4. The Gap: Explain how this scholarship will help you overcome barriers and achieve your educational goals.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a positive impact in your community and how the scholarship will facilitate that journey.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, using specific language that conveys your experiences and aspirations. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about education, illustrate that passion through personal stories and tangible examples. Ensure each paragraph focuses on one main idea, with smooth transitions to enhance flow.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and evaluate your essay. Ask yourself: What insights have I shared? Why do they matter? Ensure that each section reflects not only what you've done but also what you've learned and how it shapes your future. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message and clarity.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid generic openers; start with a specific moment that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of empty superlatives; support your claims with evidence or examples.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists; this makes your writing less engaging.
• Refrain from fabricating experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.