How to Write Your Essay for the Jeffrey M. Jarczyk Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider your upbringing, educational experiences, and any formative events that shaped your interest in accounting. What personal stories illustrate your journey?
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments related to your academic and extracurricular pursuits. Quantify your impact where possible—such as leadership roles, projects completed, or initiatives led.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that further study will address. Why is this scholarship critical for your academic and professional development?
• Personality: Think about your values, interests, and what makes you unique. Include anecdotes that reveal your character and how you connect with others.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section should focus on one main idea and flow logically into the next. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in—consider starting with a specific moment or experience that illustrates your passion for accounting. Follow with your background, achievements, the gap in your education, and conclude with insights about your personality and future aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and be specific. Avoid vague statements about your passions; instead, provide concrete examples of your experiences and their impact. Each paragraph should have a clear focus and contribute to the overall narrative. Use transitions to guide the reader through your story.

Revision and “So What?”

Once you have a draft, revise with a critical eye. Each section should answer the question, “So what?”—what did you learn, how did you grow, and why does it matter? Ensure that your reflections are clear and demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact in the field of accounting.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable; do not invent experiences or achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice when an active subject is present.
• Focus on clarity and coherence; each paragraph should serve a purpose in your overall argument.