How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Harry J. Harwick Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material by reflecting on the following four categories:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your interest in medical group management. What led you to pursue this field?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Quantify your impact where possible, such as leadership roles or projects that resulted in measurable outcomes.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience and how this scholarship will help you fill that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and how they relate to your career aspirations.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character, making sure they connect to your aspirations in medical group management.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts. Start with an engaging introduction that presents a pivotal moment or insight from your background. Follow with sections dedicated to your achievements, the gap you aim to address through further study, and your personality. Ensure each section has a clear purpose and contributes to a coherent narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific examples that highlight your journey. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Aim for clarity and precision, ensuring that your passion for the field is evident through concrete details.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflection. Each section should answer the question “So what?”—why does your experience matter, and how does it connect to your future in medical group management? Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Hook the reader with a specific moment or insight.
• Refrain from using passive voice; focus on your actions and contributions.
• Do not exaggerate your achievements or fabricate experiences. Authenticity is key.
• Ensure your essay stays focused on the prompt and does not stray into unrelated topics.