How to Craft Your Essay for the Dr. Dona Kaye Cotten Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To develop a strong essay, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments. Include metrics, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your capabilities. Be specific about your contributions and the outcomes of your efforts.
• The Gap: Identify what you feel is lacking in your current education or experience. Explain how receiving this scholarship will help bridge that gap and enhance your academic or professional goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal who you are beyond your achievements.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or experience. Follow with body paragraphs that each focus on one of the four material buckets. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow throughout your essay.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write your first draft using an active voice. Avoid vague or clichéd phrases; instead, be specific and concrete. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, supported by evidence from your experiences. Remember to reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters, answering the “So what?” question.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. This allows you to return with fresh eyes. During revision, focus on clarity and coherence. Ensure that each section contributes to your overall narrative and that your reflections on experiences are meaningful and insightful. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain perspective on your essay’s impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, steer clear of common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not provide insight into your unique journey.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from using passive voice where an active subject exists.
• Ensure your essay does not merely list achievements but connects them to your future goals and the scholarship’s purpose.