How to Write Your Essay for the Lauren Eldridge Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, explore the following four material buckets:

• Background: Consider the experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Reflect on personal challenges, family influences, or community involvement that have motivated you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics or outcomes where possible; for example, mention leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours logged.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your educational or professional journey. Explain why further study at MassBay is essential for bridging that gap and how the scholarship will facilitate this process.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes and values that humanize your narrative. This could include your interests, passions, or a defining moment that illustrates your character.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and coherence. A suggested outline could be:

1. Introduction: Start with an engaging moment or scene that draws the reader in.
2. Background: Briefly introduce your background and motivations.
3. Achievements: Highlight significant achievements that showcase your potential.
4. The Gap: Discuss what you hope to gain from further study and how the scholarship will help.
5. Personality: Share personal insights that reflect your values and aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to your educational goals and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice throughout your essay, focusing on your actions and decisions. Avoid bureaucratic language and aim for clarity. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, ensuring that your argument flows logically from one point to the next.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reflects your journey's significance. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; ensure that your agency is clear in your writing.
• Refrain from using vague language; instead, be specific about your experiences and aspirations.