How to Craft Your Essay for the Robert Wood Johnson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To effectively structure your essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant life events.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Use specific metrics or outcomes, such as leadership roles, academic successes, or community service initiatives.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain how the Robert Wood Johnson Scholarship will help you bridge these gaps and further your academic or career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your values, interests, and motivations, helping the committee see you as a multifaceted individual.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. Aim for a clear structure that logically progresses from one section to the next:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that exemplifies your journey or aspirations. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section reflects on your experiences and connects them to your future goals.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to your education and how the scholarship will empower you to make a meaningful impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Use vivid descriptions and concrete examples to bring your experiences to life. Reflect on how each experience has shaped you and why it matters. Avoid clichés and ensure that your passion is supported by evidence from your life.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a step back and evaluate your work. Ask yourself: What insights have you shared? What do you want the committee to take away from your essay? Ensure that every paragraph answers the “So what?” question, providing depth and reflection on your experiences.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

When writing your scholarship essay, be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with clichés or vague statements. Instead, begin with a specific moment that captures your journey.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to convey your actions and decisions.
• Do not exaggerate or invent facts about your experiences. Authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure that each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.