How to Write Your Essay for the Kress-Burke Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Quantify your achievements where possible—mention specific projects, leadership roles, or awards that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that this scholarship would help you overcome. This could include financial barriers, access to resources, or opportunities for professional development.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and aspirations. What motivates you? What are your passions? Specific anecdotes can help illustrate these traits.

Creating an Outline

With your material gathered, outline your essay. A clear structure will help you convey your message effectively. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Follow with sections that address each of the four material buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to your education and future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and ensure clarity in your writing. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate, demonstrate it through specific examples. Use a reflective tone to convey what you’ve learned from your experiences and how they have prepared you for the future. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section—explain why your experiences matter and how they connect to your goals.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if each section answers the “So what?” question, making clear how your experiences and aspirations align with the scholarship’s goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or general statements.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without evidence.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable; do not invent experiences or achievements.
• Keep your writing concise and focused—each paragraph should contribute to your main message.