How to Craft Your Essay for the Changemaker Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets to help structure your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. Consider specific moments that illustrate your journey.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on quantifiable outcomes. Think about leadership roles, community service, or projects that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain why further education is essential for your personal and professional development and how the scholarship will help bridge these gaps.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character. Share your passions, values, and what drives you to effect change.

Creating an Outline

Draft an outline that organizes your ideas logically. Each section should flow into the next, ensuring clarity and coherence. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, followed by sections that explore your background, achievements, the gap, and your personality.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your actions and experiences. Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters to you and your future.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay critically, asking yourself if each section answers the question, “So what?” Ensure that your reflections connect your experiences to your aspirations and the impact you hope to make. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements and empty superlatives. Every claim should be backed by concrete examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is key to a compelling narrative.