How to Write an Essay for the She Can Be Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Utilize the four material buckets to organize your thoughts:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including challenges you've faced and how they shaped your perspective. Think about significant moments that influenced your educational journey.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Include leadership roles, projects, or initiatives that demonstrate your commitment to education and community.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education and how the She Can Be Scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how further study will enable you to achieve them.
• Personality: Highlight unique aspects of your character, values, and interests. Share anecdotes that humanize your application and reflect your passion for your field.

Creating an Outline

Organize your ideas into a coherent outline. Each section should focus on one main idea, leading the reader through your narrative. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, followed by sections that cover your background, achievements, the gap, and personality. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific details that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should present a single idea, with clear transitions that guide the reader through your essay.

Reflection and “So What?”

As you revise your essay, ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections demonstrate personal growth and connect your experiences to your future aspirations. Highlight how the scholarship will enable you to make a positive impact in your community or field.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls, such as:

• Using clichés or generic statements that lack specificity.
• Failing to connect your experiences to the scholarship’s goals.
• Neglecting to proofread for clarity and grammatical accuracy.
• Overlooking the importance of a strong opening and closing.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a compelling and authentic essay that resonates with the scholarship committee.