How to Craft Your Essay for the Margot Bogner Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by reflecting on the four material buckets:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including family influences, education, and experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics, such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours, to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack that further education will provide. This could include specific skills, knowledge, or experiences necessary for your career goals.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Draft an outline to structure your essay logically. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a compelling moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or aspirations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and connects back to your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your growth and articulate how the scholarship will help you achieve your future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and be specific. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, 'I have always wanted to help others,' provide a concrete example of a time you made a difference in someone's life. Emphasize reflection—what you learned from your experiences and why it matters.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After your first draft, take a step back. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph adds value to your narrative and contributes to your case for the scholarship. Revise for clarity, coherence, and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés; instead, begin with a specific moment.
• Steer clear of vague language; use concrete details and metrics to support your claims.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing direct and engaging.
• Ensure all information is accurate and reflective of your true experiences.