How to Craft Your Essay for the Oswego Chamber of Commerce Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets that will form the foundation of your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational and career aspirations. Consider family influences, significant life events, or challenges you have overcome.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on those that demonstrate leadership, initiative, or community service. Use specific metrics where possible, such as volunteer hours or projects completed.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your education or experience that this scholarship could help fill. Discuss how further study at Waubonsee Community College aligns with your goals and addresses these gaps.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include hobbies, interests, or unique experiences that contribute to who you are.

Structuring Your Outline

With your material gathered, create an outline that logically organizes your ideas. A recommended structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that captures the reader's attention and sets the stage for your narrative.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring that each section flows logically into the next. Use specific examples and reflections to illustrate your points.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce how the scholarship will impact your future and express gratitude for the opportunity to apply.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and avoid bureaucratic language. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, using transitions to guide the reader through your narrative. Be specific in your descriptions and avoid clichés. Rather than stating your passion, demonstrate it through your experiences and reflections.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Reflect on what you learned from your experiences and how they shaped your aspirations. Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also connects it to the scholarship's purpose.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays:

• Avoid vague statements and empty superlatives. Every claim should be backed by evidence or specific examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in your achievements.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences. Authenticity is crucial in making a genuine connection with the committee.