How to Write Your Essay for the Norbert J. Auzenne Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family, community, and cultural influences.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Quantify them where possible—think about grades, awards, or leadership roles that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and how they relate to your future career.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique? How do your experiences inform your perspective?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with a strong introduction that hooks the reader with a specific moment or anecdote. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will impact your educational and career aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice and maintain a confident tone throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, focus on specific examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supported by evidence from your life experiences.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?”—what do you want the committee to take away from your essay? Ensure that each section reflects personal growth and insights that demonstrate your readiness for further study.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include invented facts or embellishments; honesty is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your achievements and experiences.
• Ensure clarity and coherence in your writing; each paragraph should logically lead to the next.