How to Craft Your Essay for the Open Bank Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, cultural influences, and significant experiences that have shaped who you are today. Consider moments that illustrate your connection to the Asian Pacific community.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics and specific outcomes to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles, community service, or academic honors.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experience and explain how this scholarship will bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and how they align with your career aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've overcome or moments that inspired you to pursue your goals.

Outline Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that organizes your thoughts logically. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with an engaging moment or story that captures the reader’s attention. Avoid generic statements and aim for a vivid scene.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section flows logically into the next, illustrating your journey and the insights you’ve gained along the way.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will empower you to make a difference in your community. Emphasize your commitment to using your education for positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Avoid vague phrases and instead focus on concrete details that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, and transitions should guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on the significance of your experiences.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return to your essay, read it with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each paragraph answers the question of why your experiences matter. Consider seeking feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your essay.
• Do not rely on passive voice; ensure your writing is dynamic and engaging.
• Steer clear of embellishing your achievements or inventing experiences; authenticity is key.
• Ensure that your essay remains focused on the scholarship’s goals and your alignment with them.