How to Craft Your Essay for the Maryland Tuition Waiver

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider your personal history, including any challenges you have faced due to your disability.
• Achievements: Identify key achievements that demonstrate your capabilities. Use metrics where applicable—such as grades, awards, or leadership roles—to quantify your success.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your education or skills that you hope to address through this scholarship. Explain why further study is essential for your growth.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that showcase your values and interests. Consider what makes you unique and how those qualities will contribute to your success in college.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that organizes your thoughts logically. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or experience that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and supports your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how this scholarship will help you achieve your goals. Emphasize your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, "I am passionate about education," provide a concrete example of how education has transformed your life. Make every word count and ensure that your narrative flows logically from one idea to the next.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Ensure that each section reflects personal growth and insight. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichéd phrases or generalizations.
• Ensure that all claims are backed by specific examples or metrics.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always identify the actor in your sentences.
• Do not invent experiences or embellish facts; honesty is crucial.