How to Write Your Essay for the Sloan Endowment for Veterans

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, consider the following four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your military service and how it has influenced your life. What experiences have shaped your perspectives and goals?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments during your service or in your academic career. Quantify your achievements where possible—think about leadership roles, awards, or projects you led.
• The Gap: Consider what you hope to gain from further education. What skills or knowledge do you lack that this scholarship will help you acquire? Be specific about your educational goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What motivates you? What challenges have you overcome?

Creating an Outline

Your outline should guide the flow of your essay. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong statement that ties your experiences to your future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice that emphasizes your role in your experiences. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Avoid clichés and general statements; instead, focus on unique aspects of your journey. Reflect on what each experience taught you and why it matters to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Does your essay clearly convey how your background, achievements, and aspirations align with the scholarship’s mission? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements about your passion without concrete examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Do not rely on clichés or generic phrases that dilute your message.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable.