How to Write Your Essay for the Harold McArthur Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to ensure your essay is comprehensive:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped you. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Include academic successes, leadership roles, community service, or work experiences that demonstrate your skills.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you address. Be specific about how further study at Morgan Community College will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that highlight your values and character. Share specific anecdotes that illustrate who you are beyond your achievements.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that reflects your journey. Avoid generic statements and aim to engage the reader immediately.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and challenges. Describe the situation, the task at hand, the actions you took, and the results you achieved.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for the future. Emphasize your commitment to making a positive impact in your community and how the scholarship will facilitate this.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your descriptions. Use concrete details and statistics where applicable. This not only strengthens your argument but also makes your essay more engaging. Remember to answer the question, “So what?” in each section, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and achievements.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ensure each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and answers the prompt effectively. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflection or clarify your points. Consider sharing your essay with a mentor or peer for feedback, focusing on clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

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

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Your opening should be unique and engaging.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without evidence. Ground your enthusiasm in specific experiences.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists. This will weaken the impact of your writing.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable. Do not invent details about your experiences or achievements.