How to Write Your Essay for the Hiroshi and Barbara Kim Yamashita HEA Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Begin by gathering material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, cultural influences, and experiences that have shaped your educational path. Consider how growing up in Hawaii or your connection to the community has influenced your aspirations.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Quantify your achievements where possible—mention awards, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your initiative and impact.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in terms of skills, knowledge, or experiences. Explain how further education will help you bridge this gap and contribute to your personal and professional growth.
• Personality: Highlight aspects of your character that make you unique. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, passions, and motivations in a way that resonates with the scholarship committee.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and coherence. A suggested outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or story that captures your journey and connects to the scholarship's purpose.
2. Background: Share your personal story and influences.
3. Achievements: Detail your accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Discuss the areas you wish to improve and how this scholarship aids that journey.
5. Personality: Conclude with reflections on your character and aspirations, tying back to the scholarship's goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your essay, use an active voice. Make sure each paragraph focuses on a single idea, leading logically to the next. Open with a vivid scene or moment that illustrates your journey, avoiding generic statements. Throughout your essay, reflect on how your experiences have shaped you and why they matter in the context of your educational goals.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Look for clarity and impact in each section. Ensure that you answer the “So what?” question by reflecting on how your experiences and aspirations connect to the scholarship’s purpose. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain different perspectives on your writing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Be specific in your experiences and reflections.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing dynamic and engaging.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable. Do not invent details or embellish experiences.
• Stay focused on the scholarship’s goals; avoid tangential stories that do not serve your main narrative.