How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Merrill Lynch Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider your personal history and experiences that have shaped you. What challenges have you faced? How have they influenced your educational journey?
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Include academic, extracurricular, or community service achievements that demonstrate your leadership and commitment.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your experience or education that further study will fill. Why is this scholarship essential for your academic and career goals?
• Personality: Reflect on what makes you unique. What values drive you? Use specific anecdotes to illustrate your character and motivations.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or story that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they relate to your aspirations.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific details and metrics.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to achieve through further education and how this scholarship will help.
5. Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and your commitment to making an impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, providing clarity and depth. Remember to reflect on your experiences and articulate why they matter. Ask yourself, “So what?” to ensure your points resonate with the reader.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure each section contributes to your overall narrative. Pay attention to transitions between paragraphs to maintain logical flow. Ask trusted peers or mentors for feedback, focusing on whether the essay effectively communicates your story and aligns with the scholarship’s mission.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Open with a unique moment that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without evidence. Show your commitment through specific examples.
• Don’t rely on passive voice; use active verbs to convey your actions and impact.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable; do not invent experiences or details.