How to Write Your Essay for the Human Services Faculty Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality. This structure will help you develop a comprehensive narrative.

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your interest in human services. Consider challenges you've faced and how they have influenced your career goals.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and commitment to the field. Use metrics and outcomes to provide concrete evidence of your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help address. Explain how further study at Waubonsee Community College will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and motivations. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating Your Outline

With your material organized, create an outline for your essay. Each section should focus on one main idea and logically progress to the next. Consider starting with a compelling moment from your background that illustrates your passion for human services. Follow this with your achievements, then discuss the gap in your education, and conclude with your personality insights.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice that highlights your role in your experiences. Use specific details, such as numbers and timeframes, to enhance your narrative. Avoid vague statements; instead, show your impact through clear examples. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, transitioning smoothly to the next to maintain coherence.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections on your experiences clearly convey their significance and how they relate to your future in human services. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague statements that do not add value to your essay. Avoid passive voice and overly bureaucratic language. Ensure that all details are accurate and reflective of your true experiences. Lastly, steer clear of generic openings; instead, start with a specific moment that captures the essence of your journey.