How to Craft Your Essay for the Fletcher Family Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family, community, and significant life events.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to education and community involvement. Use metrics when possible, such as volunteer hours or leadership roles.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how they relate to your future.
• Personality: Share unique aspects of your character. What values drive you? How do you engage with your community?

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help maintain clarity and focus. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph transitions logically, leading the reader through your narrative. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to your education and community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about education, illustrate this with a concrete example—perhaps a time you tutored a peer or led a community project. Each section should reflect personal growth and insights, answering the “So what?” question for the reader.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each paragraph contributes to your overall message and if it answers the prompt effectively. Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers who can provide constructive criticism. Ensure your final draft reflects your authentic voice and vision.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay's effectiveness:

• Avoid vague language and generalizations. Be specific about your experiences and achievements.
• Steer clear of clichés that can make your essay sound formulaic. Aim for originality in your storytelling.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.