How to Write a Compelling Essay for the St. Elizabeth Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, organize your thoughts into four key material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing and experiences that have shaped your desire to pursue a career in healthcare. Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal moments that sparked your interest.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Use metrics and outcomes where possible, such as volunteer hours, leadership roles, or academic achievements.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your knowledge or experience that further study will address. Explain how receiving this scholarship will help you bridge those gaps and achieve your educational goals.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've overcome, your commitment to service, or your passion for healthcare.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered material from your brainstorming session, create an outline to structure your essay. Aim for a clear introduction, body paragraphs focused on each of the four buckets, and a strong conclusion.

1. Introduction: Start with an engaging moment or scene that relates to your journey. Avoid generic openings.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets. Use specific examples and reflect on their significance.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals. Reinforce your commitment to making a positive impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and ensure clarity. Avoid bureaucratic language and focus on concrete details. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, and transitions should logically lead the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on your experiences and articulate why they matter to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. When you return, read through your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself the “So what?” question for each section: What insights have you gained? How do your experiences connect to your future goals? Ensure that your essay clearly communicates your motivations and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your essay.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active language to convey your actions and impact.
• Ensure your essay is well-organized and free from grammatical errors.