How to Craft Your Essay for the Smith Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges overcome.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, focusing on measurable impacts. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your contributions, such as volunteer hours or leadership roles.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or skills and articulate why this scholarship is essential for your growth. Explain how further study will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character and values. This could include moments of insight or decisions that reflect your commitment to service and learning.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use specific examples and reflections to illustrate your points.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals and contribute to your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice to engage the reader. Use specific details and avoid generalizations. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, with clear transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Ensure your tone is confident yet humble, emphasizing your commitment and readiness for the opportunities ahead.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay aloud to catch awkward phrasing and ensure clarity. Each section should answer the question, “So what?”—reflect on the significance of your experiences and how they relate to your future. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague statements. Avoid phrases like “I have always been passionate about” without backing them up with concrete examples. Ensure all details are truthful and verifiable; do not invent experiences or achievements. Lastly, steer clear of overly complex language that may obscure your message.