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How to Write Your Essay for the Owen Hart Foundation Award

By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer

Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 25, 2026 · Updated Apr 26, 2026

ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.

How to write a scholarship essay for How to Write Your Essay for the Owen Hart Foundation Award — illustrative candid photo of students in a modern university or study environment

Understanding the Prompt

Begin by carefully reading the scholarship prompt. The Owen Hart Foundation Award aims to support students attending Calgary Foundation. Your essay should reflect not only your educational goals but also how receiving this scholarship will impact your journey. Consider what the committee values: commitment to education, community involvement, and personal growth.

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to create a compelling narrative:

  • Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that shaped your educational aspirations. Consider key moments that inspired you to pursue your field of study.
  • Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments, such as projects, leadership roles, or community service. Quantify these achievements where possible—include metrics like hours volunteered, funds raised, or awards earned.
  • The Gap: Be honest about what you currently lack in your educational journey. Discuss how the Owen Hart Foundation Award will help bridge this gap, whether it's financial support, access to resources, or opportunities for growth.
  • Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Share experiences that showcase your resilience, creativity, or commitment to making a difference.

Creating an Outline

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Draft a structured outline based on your brainstorming. Each section of your essay should focus on one of the four buckets:

  1. Start with a strong opening that sets a scene or shares a pivotal moment.
  2. Follow with your background, detailing the influences that shaped your goals.
  3. Highlight your achievements, emphasizing their significance and impact.
  4. Discuss the gap in your current educational journey and how the scholarship will help.
  5. Conclude with a reflection on your personality, values, and future aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your essay, aim for an active voice. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, use specific examples and personal insights to convey your enthusiasm and commitment. Engage the reader by showing rather than telling; for instance, instead of stating you are passionate about your field, illustrate this through a relevant story or experience.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a step back and revise with a critical eye. Ensure each paragraph answers the question, “So what?” Reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters to your future. Make sure your essay flows logically, with clear transitions between sections.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

  • Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value.
  • Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is key.
  • Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language—keep your writing active and engaging.
  • Ensure your essay remains focused and coherent, with each paragraph contributing to your overall narrative.

Sources

FAQ

What is the Owen Hart Foundation Award?
The Owen Hart Foundation Award is a scholarship offered by the Calgary Foundation to support students attending Calgary Foundation. It provides financial assistance to help cover education costs.
What should I include in my scholarship essay?
Your essay should include your background, achievements, the gap in your educational journey, and personal insights that reflect your values. Be specific and use concrete examples to illustrate your points.
When is the application deadline for the scholarship?
The application deadline for the Owen Hart Foundation Award is May 30, 2026. Make sure to plan your writing and revisions accordingly to submit on time.

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