How to Write Your Essay for the Sara Frances Bounds Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement that highlight your journey.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments that demonstrate your skills, leadership, and impact. Use metrics and specific examples to provide context. For instance, if you led a project, detail your role and its outcomes.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your experience that further education can address. This could include specific skills you wish to develop or areas where you seek growth to achieve your career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character and values. Specific stories can illustrate your resilience, commitment, and passion for your field of study.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Begin with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey or aspirations. This hook should engage the reader immediately.
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. Reiterate your commitment to using this opportunity for personal and community growth.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, using specific examples to support your claims. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section—reflect on the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ask yourself if each section effectively answers the prompt and if you have sufficiently reflected on your experiences. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain additional perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on unique experiences and insights.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion; back up your claims with concrete examples.
• Ensure you do not use passive voice when possible. Active voice strengthens your narrative.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key.