How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Margaret E. Oser Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across these four key areas:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational aspirations. What challenges have you faced, and how have they informed your goals?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Have you led projects, volunteered, or received awards? Quantify your impact where possible.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of education or experience. Explain why further study at a four-year university is essential for your personal and professional development.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with humanizing details. What values drive you? Share anecdotes that reveal your character and commitment to making a difference.

Structuring Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. Start with a compelling introduction that opens in-scene or with a concrete moment related to your journey. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. Consider using the STAR method to outline achievements and challenges:

• Situation: Describe the context.
• Task: Explain your responsibilities.
• Action: Detail the steps you took.
• Result: Share the outcome and its significance.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” show your passion through specific experiences and reflections. Ensure that your writing reflects clarity and purpose, answering the question of “So what?” for each section.

Revision and Reflection

After drafting, take time to revise. Look for areas where you can enhance specificity, such as adding numbers, timeframes, and accountable details. Reflect on how each section contributes to your overall narrative. Does your essay clearly illustrate your journey and aspirations? Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of empty superlatives and vague expressions of passion.
• Do not use passive voice when active voice is appropriate.
• Ensure all facts are accurate; do not fabricate details about your experiences or achievements.