How to Write Your Essay for the Larry Kahlbau Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To effectively structure your essay, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider significant moments that influenced your academic journey.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic, extracurricular, or community service activities. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., leadership roles, awards, or projects).
• The Gap: Articulate what you currently lack in your education or skills and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and the resources you need to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values, interests, and character. This is your chance to connect with the committee on a human level.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a clear outline will help you organize your thoughts. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling anecdote or moment that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate a paragraph to each of the four material buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and flows logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your future aspirations and reiterate how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Emphasize your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your role in your achievements and experiences. Use specific details and metrics to support your claims. Avoid vague language and clichés; instead, aim for clarity and authenticity. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, ensuring that your essay remains focused and coherent.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself: What insights have I provided? How do my experiences connect to the scholarship’s goals? Ensure that every section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating why your story matters and how it aligns with the scholarship’s mission.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; honesty is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to showcase your agency.
• Ensure your essay is free of grammatical errors and flows logically.