How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Kevin Schantz Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider experiences that shaped your academic and personal journey. Think about family influences, community involvement, or significant life events.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments. Use specific metrics where possible—such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours—to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack that further education will provide. This could be skills, knowledge, or experiences that will help you achieve your goals.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that showcase your values, interests, and unique perspective. This helps the committee see you as a well-rounded individual.

Creating an Outline

Organize your ideas into a clear outline. Each section of your essay should focus on one of the four buckets. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, followed by a logical progression through your background, achievements, the gap, and personality. Ensure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” share a moment that illustrates your passion, such as a specific project or experience that sparked your interest.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and reflect on the significance of your experiences and insights. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. This will help you ensure that your essay conveys not just what you have done, but why it matters and how it connects to your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and relevant to your narrative.
• Steer clear of overly complex language that obscures your message.