How to Write Your Essay for the Great Lakes Hemophilia Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material to inform your essay by reflecting on the following four areas:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your interest in this field? Consider personal, academic, and professional influences.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments relevant to your education and career goals. Include metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge that further education will address. Be specific about how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Reflect on your values and interests. What unique perspectives do you bring? Include humanizing details that illustrate your character.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that illustrates your connection to the scholarship theme.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate individual sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reflect on how receiving the scholarship will impact your future. Answer the “So what?” question here.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are “passionate about” something, demonstrate your commitment with specific examples. Ensure clarity by using precise language and concrete details, including numbers and timeframes where applicable.

Revision and Reflection

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay critically. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure each section answers the “So what?” question, reflecting on your growth and future aspirations. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid opening with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include vague claims about your passion without evidence.
• Refrain from using passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Ensure all information is accurate and verifiable; do not invent facts or experiences.