How to Craft Your Essay for the Jacquelyn Burroughs Dial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on experiences or influences that have shaped your academic journey. Consider family, community, or significant events that inspired your pursuit of education.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Include specific metrics, such as GPA, awards, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey that this scholarship can help address. Be specific about how financial support will enable you to further your studies or pursue particular opportunities.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, creativity, or dedication.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure a logical flow of ideas. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with an engaging moment or a reflection that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use specific examples and details to support your claims.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship aligns with your future goals and the impact it will have on your education and community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about your field, illustrate this through specific experiences or achievements that demonstrate your commitment. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea and transition smoothly to the next.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that you are not only stating facts but also reflecting on their significance. What did you learn from your experiences? How have they prepared you for future challenges? This reflection will deepen your essay and connect your past to your future aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid vague language and empty superlatives—be specific in your achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; ensure your writing is direct and engaging.
• Do not fabricate experiences or embellish facts; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from starting with clichés; instead, open with a unique moment that captures your journey.