Crafting Your Essay for the Doherty Journalism Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the four key buckets:

• Background: What experiences, environments, or influences have shaped your interest in journalism? Consider specific moments that sparked your passion for storytelling.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic or extracurricular activities. Use metrics or specific examples to illustrate your impact, such as articles published, leadership roles, or relevant projects.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship could help address. How will further education at the Sea Education Association enhance your skills and opportunities in journalism?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that highlight your unique perspective and approach to journalism.

Structuring Your Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Each section should focus on one main idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling in-scene moment that draws the reader in. Avoid generic statements.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences related to journalism.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Explain how this scholarship will bridge your current limitations.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to journalism and the impact you aspire to make.

Drafting Voice and Tone

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions; instead, focus on clear, direct statements that convey your thoughts. Each paragraph should transition smoothly to the next, maintaining logical progression and clarity. Reflect on your growth and insights throughout the narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained, and why do they matter? Ensure that your reflections are meaningful and connect back to your aspirations in journalism. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not engage the reader.
• Steer clear of vague language or superlatives that lack evidence.
• Do not rely on passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Ensure all details are truthful and verifiable; do not invent facts or experiences.