How to Write an Essay for the Louise de Marillac Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal moments that led you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as leadership roles, volunteer work, or academic successes.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack that this scholarship would help you address. This could include financial needs, resources for specific programs, or opportunities for personal growth.
• Personality: Share details that humanize you. What values drive you? How do your interests and passions align with your educational goals?

Outlining Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you maintain focus and coherence. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in, perhaps by sharing a specific moment that encapsulates your journey. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each of the four material buckets, ensuring each paragraph centers on one main idea. Conclude by tying your experiences and aspirations back to the scholarship's purpose.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice that conveys your agency. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points, avoiding vague statements. Each paragraph should flow logically to the next, creating a narrative that showcases your growth and commitment to your goals. Remember to reflect on the significance of your experiences—answer the “So what?” question in each section.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity and coherence. Ensure that each section contributes to a unified narrative. Ask yourself what insights you gained from your experiences and why they matter in the context of this scholarship. Incorporate feedback from trusted peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls that can detract from your essay's effectiveness:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Do not invent details or exaggerate experiences. Authenticity is key to connecting with the committee.
• Ensure that your essay remains focused on the scholarship prompt and your unique qualifications.