How to Write an Essay for the EverGreenTrails Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material for the following four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, key experiences, and influences that shaped your values. Consider moments that sparked your interest in service or education.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, whether academic, extracurricular, or community-oriented. Use metrics or specific outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as volunteer hours or leadership roles.
• The Gap: Acknowledge areas where you seek growth. Define what knowledge or skills you lack and how this scholarship will help you bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with details that showcase your character. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure a logical flow. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and influences.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Explain your aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
5. Personality: Conclude with a reflection on your values and commitment to service.

Drafting with Purpose

As you write your draft, focus on clarity and specificity. Use active voice and concrete details to engage the reader. Avoid generic statements; instead, reflect on how each experience has shaped you and why it matters. Address the “So what?” question throughout your essay to emphasize the significance of your journey.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Review your essay for coherence and impact. Ensure each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if your essay answers the “So what?” question effectively—what insights or commitments have you gained that will influence your future?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements that lack substance.
• Do not rely on passive voice; ensure your writing reflects your agency.
• Steer clear of overly bureaucratic language that obscures your message.
• Never invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key.