How to Write Your Essay for the Herbert Lehman Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including influences that shaped your educational journey. Consider family, community, or significant experiences that highlight your commitment to education and social equity.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Use specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours, to quantify your impact. Highlight experiences that demonstrate your potential for future contributions.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current education and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be honest about your aspirations and the resources you need to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and character. Specific stories can make your application memorable and relatable.

Creating an Outline

Organize your ideas into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in, perhaps through a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your educational goals and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and avoid vague generalizations. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, clearly articulated and supported by evidence from your life. Use transitions to guide the reader through your narrative, ensuring a logical flow of ideas. Remember to reflect on your experiences: what did you learn, and why does it matter?

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take time to revise your essay critically. Ask yourself: Does each section answer the prompt? Have you reflected on your experiences adequately? Ensure that your essay conveys not just what you have done, but also the significance of those experiences. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain diverse perspectives on your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes in scholarship essays:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Ensure your essay remains focused and concise, avoiding unnecessary tangents.