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How to Write Your Essay for the Harmon Strieter STEM Scholarship
By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer
Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 23, 2026 · Updated Apr 26, 2026
ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.
Understanding the Prompt
Before diving into your essay, carefully read the scholarship prompt. Identify what the committee is looking for in terms of your background, achievements, and aspirations in STEM. Reflect on how your unique experiences align with the scholarship's goals and how you can contribute to the field.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
Organize your thoughts into four key areas:
- Background: Consider your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your interest in STEM. What pivotal moments or influences can you highlight?
- Achievements: List your accomplishments in academics, projects, or extracurricular activities related to STEM. Use metrics and specific outcomes to illustrate your impact.
- The Gap: Identify what you still need to learn or achieve in your STEM journey. Explain why receiving this scholarship is essential for your educational and career goals.
- Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and aspirations in a way that resonates with the committee.
Creating an Outline
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Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in, perhaps with a specific moment from your background. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
Drafting Voice and Style
Write in an active voice, focusing on your role in each achievement or experience. Avoid vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples and specific details. Reflect on your growth and what you’ve learned from each experience, answering the “So what?” question to demonstrate the significance of your journey.
Revision and “So What?”
After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity and coherence, ensuring that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative. Ask yourself: Does my essay reflect who I am? Does it clearly articulate my goals and the importance of this scholarship?
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your essay. Steer clear of overly complex language or bureaucratic phrasing; simplicity and clarity are key. Lastly, ensure that all facts presented are truthful and verifiable, as integrity is crucial in scholarship applications.
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