How to Craft Your Essay for the Gregory Nowlin Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Your essay should reflect on four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Identify the experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Include academic successes, leadership roles, and community service. Use specific metrics where possible to showcase your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack that the scholarship will help you address. This could be financial resources, access to specific programs, or opportunities for personal growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Specific moments can help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay logically, ensuring that each section flows into the next. Start with a compelling introduction that draws the reader in—consider opening with an in-scene moment from your life. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring that you reflect on how each element contributes to your overall narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, focus on unique experiences and insights. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, leading the reader through your thought process and experiences clearly and effectively.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay for clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Does your essay communicate why your experiences matter? Ensure that you highlight not just what you have done, but what you have learned and how you plan to apply those lessons in the future.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements. Your opening should be engaging and specific.
• Steer clear of vague language. Use concrete examples and metrics to support your claims.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
• Refrain from using passive voice; keep your writing active and direct.