Crafting Your Essay for the Royal P. Fisher Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across these four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family influences, education, and significant life events that have shaped your interest in business administration.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Use metrics or examples that highlight your leadership roles, academic successes, or community involvement.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in your education or experience that further study will help you address. Clearly articulate how the scholarship will bridge this gap and enhance your future contributions.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and motivations. Share anecdotes that illustrate your character and commitment to making a difference.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay for clarity and impact. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in with a specific moment or story. Organize your content logically:

1. Introduction: Introduce your main theme or story.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each one has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you have learned and how you plan to apply this knowledge in the future, emphasizing your commitment to making an impact in business.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Avoid bureaucratic language and focus on making your points clear and direct. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, supported by specific examples and reflections. Remember to show, not just tell—use vivid details to bring your experiences to life.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflection. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point to ensure you are conveying the significance of your experiences. Make sure your essay answers the question of why you deserve this scholarship and how it fits into your larger goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific experiences that highlight your journey.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish your achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active constructions to make your writing more engaging.