How to Write Your Essay for the Rosi Mary McLeod Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and motivations that have drawn you to human services. What personal stories illustrate your journey?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic or volunteer work. Quantify your impact—did you lead a project that helped a specific number of people? What responsibilities did you take on?
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your education or experience and how this scholarship will bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and the skills you wish to acquire.
• Personality: Share details that humanize you. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that showcase your character and commitment to helping others.

Outline Your Essay

Start with a clear outline to organize your thoughts. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Open with a compelling moment or story that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to the field of human services.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice and be specific. Avoid vague statements; instead of saying you are passionate about helping others, illustrate this with a concrete example. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea and connect back to your overall narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, review your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself: What changed in me through these experiences? Why does this matter? Ensure that every section answers these questions and reinforces your commitment to human services.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of overly complex language; clarity is more impactful than jargon.