New Hampshire Charitable Foundation Certificate Licensing

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To develop a strong essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community engagements, or significant challenges.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments. Include academic successes, leadership roles, or community service. Quantify these achievements with metrics where possible, such as GPA, awards, or hours volunteered.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help fulfill. Be specific about your educational goals and how they align with the scholarship's purpose.
• Personality: Humanize your essay by sharing personal anecdotes or values that drive you. What motivates you? What unique perspectives do you bring?

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that illustrates your journey or motivation.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they shaped your aspirations.
3. Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your readiness for further education.
4. The Gap: Explain what you hope to achieve through this scholarship and why it is essential for your future.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on clarity and specificity. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about your field, illustrate this passion through concrete examples. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and transitions smoothly to the next, guiding the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting your essay, revisit each section and ask yourself, “So what?” This reflection will help you clarify the significance of your experiences and aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain new perspectives. Revise for coherence, ensuring that your essay tells a compelling story that aligns with the scholarship's goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice where possible; make your actions and contributions clear.
• Ensure your essay remains focused on the prompt and does not veer off into unrelated topics.