Rick Cheek Memorial Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you've overcome.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Include metrics or specific outcomes, such as projects completed, leadership roles, or awards received.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help address. Be specific about how further study will enhance your capabilities and opportunities.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, goals, and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. A suggested outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that captures the reader's attention.
2. Background: Provide context about your journey and what led you to pursue further education.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that demonstrate your readiness for this scholarship.
4. The Gap: Discuss what you hope to gain from this scholarship and how it fits into your broader educational goals.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and the impact this scholarship will have on your future.

Drafting Voice

When writing your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should present one main idea, leading the reader through your narrative seamlessly. Remember to connect your experiences to the scholarship’s goals, emphasizing your commitment to making a positive impact.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections convey personal growth and relevance to the scholarship. Look for opportunities to enhance clarity and specificity, and confirm that your voice remains consistent throughout.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Steer clear of clichés and generic statements. Avoid phrases like “I have always wanted to” or “Since childhood.” Ensure that all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable. Lastly, do not rely on passive voice; instead, highlight your actions and decisions to showcase your agency.