How to Craft Your Essay for the Midwest Trust Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant life events.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic or extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or examples, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or challenges overcome, to demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experience. Why is further study at Johnson County Community College essential for you? Be honest about your goals and how this scholarship can help bridge the gap.
• Personality: Humanize your narrative. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that showcase your character and passions.

Creating an Outline

With your material organized, create an outline that logically flows from one section to the next. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, leading to a cohesive narrative. Consider structuring your essay as follows:

1. Introduction: Begin with a specific moment or story that encapsulates your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact in your community or field of study.

Drafting with Voice and Clarity

As you draft your essay, focus on using an active voice. This will make your writing more engaging and direct. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, use specific examples and details that illustrate your points. When reflecting on your experiences, answer the “So what?” question to emphasize the significance of each moment in your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay with fresh eyes. Look for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative. Ask yourself whether your essay answers the key question: Why should you be awarded the Midwest Trust Scholarship? Make sure your personality shines through and that your commitment to your goals is clear.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that could weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Don’t rely on vague expressions of passion without evidence.
• Steer clear of excessive passive voice; use active constructions to clarify who is doing what.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are authentic and verifiable.