How to Craft Your Essay for the Kenneth G. Tanner Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped who you are today. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your academic and personal journey?
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics, responsibilities, and outcomes to showcase your impact in various settings, such as school, work, or community service.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in terms of skills or opportunities and how further education can bridge that gap. Why is this scholarship essential for your academic and career aspirations?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with humanizing details that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. What makes you unique? How do your experiences and personality traits contribute to your goals?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in with a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will enable you to make a meaningful impact in your community or field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and generalizations; instead, aim for concrete examples and reflections. Each section should build on the previous one, creating a cohesive narrative that flows logically. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section—why does your story matter?

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reflects your unique voice. Ask yourself if you clearly communicate your goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements and empty passion. Back up your claims with specific examples.
• Don’t rely on clichés or overly formal language. Keep your writing authentic and relatable.
• Ensure that all facts and experiences shared are genuine and verifiable.