How to Write an Essay for the Lisa Higgins Hussman Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets:

• Background: Consider your personal history and experiences that have shaped your interest in autism research. What moments or influences led you to this path?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics and outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as projects completed, leadership roles held, or community service undertaken.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that further study will address. How does this scholarship help fill that gap?
• Personality: Think about the personal qualities and values that define you. Include anecdotes that humanize your application and demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in the field of autism research.

Outline Your Essay

Creating an outline can help structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging opening that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your journey. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the impact you hope to achieve.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language to convey your experiences and aspirations. Avoid clichés and abstract statements; instead, focus on concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should flow logically into the next, maintaining a clear narrative thread throughout your essay.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major section. Does your essay clearly convey why your experiences matter and how they relate to the scholarship's goals? Seek feedback from mentors or peers to refine your essay further, ensuring clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes in scholarship essays:

• Avoid generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Make sure to proofread for grammatical errors and clarity before submission.