How to Craft Your Essay for the Martin & Bethel Liljedahl Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to build a compelling narrative:

• Background: Identify experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal moments that sparked your interest in further education.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Use metrics where possible—such as grades, leadership roles, or projects—to provide concrete evidence of your success.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how further study will enable you to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Think about what makes you unique and how that contributes to your potential impact on your community and beyond.

Structuring Your Outline

When outlining your essay, aim for a clear progression of ideas. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or anecdote that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and influences.
3. Achievements: Present your key accomplishments and what they signify.
4. The Gap: Explain your current educational needs and aspirations.
5. Personality: Add personal reflections that connect your story to your future goals.
6. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to using this scholarship to make a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and ensure each sentence contributes to your overall message. Use specific examples and numbers to illustrate your points. Remember to reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself: “So what?” for each section. Does your essay clearly convey your journey and aspirations? Ensure that your reflections connect back to the scholarship’s purpose and your commitment to making a difference.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements and superlatives that lack evidence.
• Steer clear of passive constructions; always identify the actor.
• Don’t invent details about your experiences or achievements.
• Refrain from using overly complex language; clarity is key.