How to Write an Essay for the Jacob & Doshie Stark Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider experiences that have shaped your academic journey. What events or influences have led you to pursue higher education?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Include leadership roles, academic honors, or community service that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that this scholarship would help you achieve. Be specific about your educational or financial needs and how they connect to your future aspirations.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and unique qualities. This helps the committee see you as a well-rounded individual.

Creating an Outline

Draft an outline based on your brainstorming. Your essay should have a clear structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section transitions logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what receiving this scholarship would mean for you and how you plan to give back or make an impact in the future.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your actions and experiences. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide concrete details and reflections. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, enhancing clarity and coherence.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revise your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Ensure that each section not only presents facts but also reflects on their significance. What have you learned? How do your experiences prepare you for future challenges?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting your essay with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not use passive voice; focus on your actions.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without supporting evidence.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable—do not embellish your experiences.