Crafting Your Essay for the Ken Milam Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that led you to pursue a career in planning. Consider formative moments, influential figures, or specific events that sparked your interest.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments related to planning. Focus on metrics and outcomes. For instance, if you led a project, quantify its impact or describe your role in detail.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you address. Be specific about how further study will enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and motivations. This could include challenges you've overcome or moments that shaped your perspective on planning.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Draft a clear outline to guide your writing. Each section should flow logically into the next:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures the reader's attention. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to illustrate achievements or challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making an impact in the planning field.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your actions and insights. Use specific examples and details to support your claims. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself the “So what?” question for each section. Ensure that your reflections are meaningful and demonstrate your growth and future aspirations in planning.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific experiences and insights.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your involvement and actions.
• Do not fabricate facts or experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure clarity and coherence; each section should contribute to a unified narrative.