How to Write an Essay for the Janisse Berry Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, consider the following four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and key experiences that have shaped you. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your academic and personal growth?
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic, extracurricular, or community activities. Use metrics or specific examples to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles or projects you initiated.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship could help fulfill. Why is further study essential for your goals, and how will this scholarship bridge that gap?
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes or values that reveal who you are beyond your achievements. What drives you? What unique perspectives do you bring?

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or motivation.
2. Background: Discuss formative experiences that shaped your aspirations.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific examples and metrics.
4. The Gap: Explain what you hope to achieve through further study and how the scholarship will assist you.
5. Personality: Conclude with a reflection on your values and future ambitions, tying back to the scholarship's mission.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and focus on specific details. Avoid generic statements; instead, use concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, ensuring logical progression throughout the essay.

Revision & “So What?”

During revision, ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph reflects not just what you’ve done but why it matters. Seek feedback from peers or mentors and be open to constructive criticism. Look for clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance in your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific, impactful moments in your life.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to engage your reader.
• Ensure your essay aligns with the scholarship’s goals without explicitly stating them.