How to Write Your Essay for the Dr. H. Marshall Taylor Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you have overcome.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use metrics or specific examples to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack and how further education will bridge that gap. Be specific about the skills or knowledge you wish to gain and how they relate to your career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Share moments that illustrate your determination, resilience, or commitment to your community.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. A typical outline might look like this:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that draws the reader in.
2. Background: Briefly introduce your personal history and relevant experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific examples and metrics.
4. The Gap: Discuss your educational and professional aspirations, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
5. Personality: Share a personal story that reflects your values and commitment.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express gratitude for the opportunity.

Drafting Your Essay

When drafting, focus on clarity and specificity. Open with an engaging scene or moment that sets the tone. Use active voice and ensure each paragraph centers around a single idea. Transition smoothly between sections to maintain a logical flow. Remember to reflect on how each experience has shaped you and why it matters to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read through your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself: Does each section answer the “So what?” question? Ensure that your reflections connect your experiences to your future goals. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or peers who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Be specific about your experiences and insights.
• Do not use passive voice; keep your writing active.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without evidence. Support your claims with concrete examples.
• Ensure all information is truthful and verifiable; do not invent details.