How to Write Your Essay for the Falio Leyba Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organizing your thoughts into four key buckets will help you structure your essay effectively:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational goals? Consider family, community, and significant life events.
• Achievements: Identify your most relevant accomplishments. Quantify your successes where possible—think about your grades, leadership roles, or community service. What responsibilities have you undertaken, and what outcomes did you achieve?
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack that this scholarship could help address. What are your educational aspirations, and how does this scholarship bridge the gap to achieving them?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that humanize your narrative. What values drive you? What unique perspectives do you bring?

Crafting Your Outline

With your material organized, create a clear outline that flows logically. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a specific moment from your life. Follow with sections that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a distinct focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reflects on how the scholarship will empower you to make a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be active and specific. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always wanted to help others,” illustrate a moment when you did help someone and explain the impact it had on you. Use concrete examples to convey your passion and commitment. Remember to answer the “So what?” question throughout your essay—what does your story reveal about your character and ambitions?

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your work with fresh eyes. Look for clarity and coherence in your arguments. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overall message. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Make sure your revisions enhance the depth of your reflections and the specificity of your examples.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Every claim should be backed by specific examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active constructions to make your writing more engaging.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish your achievements. Authenticity matters more than hype.
• Ensure your essay adheres to any word or formatting guidelines provided by the scholarship.