How to Craft Your Essay for the Elmer and Bonnie Gilbert Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider your personal history, including family, education, and experiences that have shaped who you are. Reflect on moments that have influenced your desire to pursue further education.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Quantify these achievements where possible—think about leadership roles, community service, or academic successes.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your education or experiences that the scholarship will help you bridge. Explain why further study is essential for your personal and professional development.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values, interests, and motivations. This is your chance to connect with the committee on a human level.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically to enhance clarity. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling in-scene moment or anecdote that relates to your journey.
2. Background: Detail your background and how it has prepared you for this opportunity.
3. Achievements: Highlight your significant achievements and what they reveal about your character.
4. The Gap: Discuss the gaps in your education and how this scholarship will help address them.
5. Personality: Share personal insights that illustrate your commitment to your goals.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on what receiving this scholarship would mean for you and your future.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and ensure each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, aim for specificity in your examples and reflections. Each section should answer the “So what?” question to demonstrate why your experiences and aspirations matter.

Revision and “So What?” Reflection

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. When you return, read through your essay critically. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity, specificity, and emotional resonance. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative that answers the scholarship's purpose.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include fabricated details or achievements that are not verifiable.
• Steer clear of passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and awkward phrasing.