How to Craft Your Essay for the Kendra Lewis Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, organize your thoughts into four material buckets:

• Background: Consider significant experiences that have shaped your identity and aspirations. Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership and impact. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your contributions, whether in academics, community service, or extracurricular activities.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your educational journey and why pursuing further studies is essential for your growth. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will help bridge the gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This humanizing detail will help the committee connect with you on a deeper level.

Outline Your Essay

Construct a clear outline that flows logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or scene. Organize the body into sections that correspond to the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to making an impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about helping others,” provide a specific example of a time you made a difference in someone’s life. Reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters to you.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative and emphasizes your unique perspective. Look for opportunities to tighten your writing, eliminate redundancies, and enhance clarity.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay's impact:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not provide evidence of your claims.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure your essay stays focused on the prompt and does not veer off into unrelated topics.