How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Robert J. Oehrtman Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organizing your thoughts into four key areas—Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality—will help you create a well-rounded essay.

• Background: Reflect on your experiences with Alpha Gamma Rho and how they have shaped your values and aspirations.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular, that demonstrate your leadership and commitment. Use metrics where possible, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in your educational experience and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and the resources you need.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your character, values, and unique perspective. This will humanize your application and make it memorable.

Creating an Outline

Your outline should follow a logical progression that connects your thoughts. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in, perhaps by recounting a pivotal moment related to your fraternity involvement. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to the overall narrative. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your educational goals and the impact of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid generalities and clichés; instead, focus on concrete details that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should center around one main idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on your experiences—what you learned, how you grew, and why it matters in the context of your future aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. This reflection will help you ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also highlights its significance. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity, tighten language, and deepen insights. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls as you write your essay:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always strive for active construction.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is key.
• Ensure that every paragraph contributes to a cohesive narrative rather than introducing unrelated ideas.