How to Craft Your Essay for the Morton G. Epstein Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across these four areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped your educational and career aspirations. Consider significant life events, family influences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities and commitment to your goals. Use specific metrics or examples, such as projects completed, leadership roles held, or challenges overcome.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any areas where you seek growth or further knowledge. Clearly articulate why further study at Cuyahoga Community College is essential for bridging this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and motivations. Share anecdotes that illustrate your character and give the committee insight into who you are beyond your achievements.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically to ensure a smooth flow of ideas. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey or aspirations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate a paragraph to each of the four buckets, ensuring each section illustrates a specific point and answers the “So what?” question.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reinforce your commitment to your educational and career goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific experiences and insights that reveal your unique perspective. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, supported by relevant details and examples.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take time to revise. Check for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question: why does this matter? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your writing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements and clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure your essay maintains a logical progression, with smooth transitions between ideas.