How to Write a Winning S. Bert Jensen Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. Consider experiences that shaped your interest in narcotic enforcement or public safety. What pivotal moments led you to this path?
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments relevant to your field. Include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your impact, such as volunteer work, internships, or academic performance.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge that further education will address. Explain why this scholarship is crucial for your development.
• Personality: Share humanizing details about yourself. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your character and commitment to your chosen field.

Outline Your Essay

Your essay should have a clear structure. Consider this outline:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that connects to your journey in narcotic enforcement.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they influenced your career choice.
3. Achievements: Detail your significant accomplishments, focusing on outcomes and responsibility.
4. The Gap: Explain the skills or knowledge you wish to gain through further education and how the scholarship will help.
5. Personality: Conclude with a reflection on your values and aspirations, emphasizing your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Tone

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead of saying you are “passionate about” narcotic enforcement, illustrate your passion with specific examples and experiences. Ensure each paragraph focuses on a single idea, and transitions between paragraphs are logical and smooth.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does your essay clearly convey your motivations and aspirations? Are your achievements and experiences relevant and impactful? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to ensure clarity and coherence.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate details about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to specific subjects.
• Ensure your essay remains focused and relevant to the scholarship’s goals.