How to Write Your Essay for the National Presbyterian Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and the influences that have shaped your faith and values. Consider specific moments or experiences that illustrate your connection to the Presbyterian Church.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic, personal, or community life. Use metrics or outcomes to highlight your contributions, such as leadership roles, volunteer work, or projects that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain how this scholarship will help you bridge that gap and further your education within the context of your faith.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and aspirations. Use specific examples to humanize your narrative and make it relatable.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a cohesive outline. Each section of your essay should focus on one of the four buckets, ensuring a logical flow. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in—consider beginning with a specific moment or story that encapsulates your journey. Follow this with your background, achievements, the gap you wish to address, and conclude with your personality and future aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, provide concrete details that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, and transitions should guide the reader through your narrative. Reflect on your growth and insights, answering the “So what?” question to emphasize the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ensure that each section contributes to a coherent narrative and that your reflections are clear. Ask yourself how your experiences have shaped your commitment to your education and faith. Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers, and be open to making revisions that strengthen your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls when writing your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Open with a specific moment that captures your journey.
• Steer clear of vague language and unsupported claims. Use metrics and specific examples to substantiate your achievements.
• Do not invent details or experiences; authenticity is crucial in your narrative.
• Ensure clarity and coherence throughout your essay, avoiding overly complex language or convoluted sentences.