How to Write Your Essay for the Dr. Nancy E. Harris Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Your essay should encompass four key material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality. Use these prompts to gather your thoughts:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your desire to pursue a career in education? Consider family influences, significant life events, or mentors.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your dedication to education. This could include volunteer work, tutoring, or leadership roles in educational settings.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn or achieve to reach your goals. Why is further study at Worcester State University essential for your development?
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. What values drive you? How do you engage with your community?

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or story that illustrates your passion for education.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they led you to pursue a career in education.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their impact on your educational journey.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to achieve through your studies at Worcester State University.
5. Personality: Share insights into your character, values, and how they influence your goals.
6. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to education and how the scholarship will help you make a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, focus on using an active voice and specific details. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about teaching, provide a concrete example of a moment that ignited your passion. Ensure each paragraph sticks to one main idea and transitions smoothly to the next, guiding the reader through your narrative.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and reflect on your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences connect to your future goals in education? This reflection will help you strengthen your narrative and clarify your motivations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to making revisions that enhance clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

When writing your essay, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate your achievements; focus on authenticity.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language.
• Ensure that every section contributes to your overall narrative and purpose.