How to Write a Compelling Essay for the PVA Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Consider your military service and any challenges you faced. What experiences have shaped your identity?
• Achievements: List accomplishments from your service or education. Include specific metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current education or career path. Explain how this scholarship will bridge that gap and support your goals.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This can include moments of resilience or leadership.

Creating an Outline

Draft an outline based on the four buckets. Each section should have a clear focus:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Background: Provide context about your military service and personal experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that showcase your skills and dedication.
4. The Gap: Discuss your educational aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
5. Personality: Conclude with reflections on what you’ve learned and how you plan to give back to the community.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice and specific language throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying, “I have always wanted to help others,” provide a concrete example of a time when you made a difference. This specificity will make your essay more engaging and memorable.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, review your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph answers this question and contributes to your overall narrative. Look for areas where you can add detail or clarify your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Using vague language or empty superlatives.
• Failing to connect your experiences to your future goals.
• Neglecting to proofread for grammar and clarity.
• Overloading your essay with unnecessary details that detract from your main points.