How to Write Your Essay for the Kona Hawaiian Civic Club Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your cultural heritage, personal experiences, and influences that have shaped your identity. Consider how your connection to the Hawaiian community informs your educational journey.
• Achievements: List your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and any leadership roles you have held. Quantify your achievements where possible—what were the outcomes of your efforts?
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your education or experiences that this scholarship can help fill. Explain how receiving this award will enable you to pursue your academic and career goals more effectively.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes and details that showcase your values and character. This could include challenges you've faced, lessons learned, or moments of inspiration.

Outline Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. A typical essay might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or connection to the Hawaiian community.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Use the STAR method to detail specific achievements or challenges, and reflect on their significance.
3. Conclusion: Summarize how the scholarship aligns with your goals and express your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, focus on concrete examples and measurable outcomes. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences and aspirations connect to the scholarship? Ensure that your reflections highlight your growth and future potential.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not fabricate experiences or exaggerate achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure clarity and coherence; each paragraph should logically progress to the next.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to specific subjects.