How to Write an Essay for the Smith Literary Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material to inform your essay by exploring the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your interest in literature and community service. Consider significant moments that influenced your path.
• Achievements: Document your accomplishments related to literature or community engagement. Include specific metrics, such as awards, publications, or volunteer hours that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. Discuss what you currently lack in your literary journey and how this scholarship will help you bridge that gap, enhancing your education and future contributions.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Share stories that highlight your resilience, creativity, and dedication.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, perhaps a vivid scene from your literary journey. Follow with sections that cover each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. End with a strong conclusion that reiterates your commitment to using the scholarship for positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and generic statements; instead, be concrete and reflective. Each paragraph should present one clear idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Ensure that your voice remains authentic and true to your experiences.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences connect to your future goals? Ensure that each part of your essay contributes to a coherent narrative that answers the prompt effectively.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls:

• Avoid opening with clichés or overly broad statements. Start with a specific moment or insight.
• Steer clear of vague language about your passions. Use concrete examples to illustrate your commitment.
• Do not embellish your achievements or fabricate experiences; honesty is crucial.
• Ensure that your essay has a logical flow and that each paragraph builds on the last.