Jason Choi Memorial Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets:

• Background: Consider your personal history, upbringing, and significant experiences that have shaped who you are today. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your educational journey?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic, extracurricular, or community service activities. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on areas where you seek growth or knowledge. What skills or experiences do you currently lack that further education will help you acquire?
• Personality: Share unique aspects of your character, values, and motivations. What drives you? What personal stories can illustrate your commitment to your goals?

Crafting Your Outline

Structure your essay with a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or insight. Follow with body paragraphs that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a strong closing that ties your experiences back to the scholarship’s purpose and your future aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should have a clear purpose and contribute to your overall narrative. Remember to show reflection: what did you learn from your experiences, and why does it matter?

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise. Look for opportunities to deepen your reflections and clarify your message. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your essay communicates not just what you have done, but also the significance of those actions and how they relate to your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and generic statements. Avoid phrases like “From a young age” or “I have always been passionate about.” Instead, focus on specific moments that illustrate your journey. Additionally, steer clear of passive voice and abstract language that lacks clear actors. Ensure your essay is a genuine representation of your experiences and aspirations.