How to Craft Your Essay for the Shon Harris WIS Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by reflecting on the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: What experiences or influences have shaped your interest in information systems security? Think about specific moments that sparked your passion.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic or professional journey. Use metrics and specific outcomes to demonstrate your impact, such as projects completed or skills acquired.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship could help you address. Be clear about how further study will enhance your capabilities.
• Personality: Include personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could be a challenge you overcame or a lesson learned that influenced your career path.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or scene from your life. Follow this with sections that correspond to your four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to the field and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Structure

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Each paragraph should present a single idea and support your overall narrative. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. Reflect on the significance of your experiences and articulate why they matter to you and to the field of information systems security.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflection and explicitly answer the “So what?” question. Why are your experiences relevant? How do they connect to your future goals? Ensure that your essay flows logically and that each section contributes to your overall message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; keep your writing personal and engaging.