How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Liza & Jack Lewis Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your academic and career aspirations. Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant life events.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Focus on metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your commitment and impact, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of education or skills that this scholarship will help you address. Be specific about how further study at Alamo Colleges will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Think about the personal qualities that make you unique. Include anecdotes or specific examples that reveal your values, interests, and motivations.

Structuring Your Essay

Outline your essay to ensure a logical flow of ideas. Start with an engaging introduction that hooks the reader, perhaps with a personal story or a defining moment. Follow with sections that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph focuses on a single idea and transitions smoothly to the next.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, illustrate this with concrete examples or experiences that demonstrate your commitment and interest. Reflect on what you have learned from your experiences and how they have prepared you for future challenges.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph adds value and answers the underlying question of why your experiences and goals matter. This reflection will help strengthen your argument and make your essay more compelling.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements. Instead, dive right into a personal story or meaningful experience.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate details. Authenticity is key, so focus on your genuine experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language. Keep your writing clear and direct.
• Ensure that you adhere to any specified word limits or formatting guidelines.