How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Stephanie Barry Award

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Identify key experiences that shaped your values and aspirations. Think about challenges you've faced and how they influenced your leadership style.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Highlight leadership roles, community service, or academic successes that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack that further education at Mount Wachusett Community College can provide. Be specific about your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Include personal anecdotes that reveal your character and values. This could be a moment of insight or a lesson learned that showcases your commitment to leadership.

Creating an Outline

With your ideas organized, create a structured outline. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in—perhaps a specific moment that encapsulates your journey. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong statement about your future goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your direct experiences and actions. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide specific details that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, clearly connecting your experiences to the scholarship’s goals. Remember to reflect on the significance of your experiences—answer the “So what?” for each section.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, checking for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ensure that each section addresses the prompt and reflects your unique perspective. Ask yourself how your experiences and aspirations contribute to your community and the world at large. This reflection will strengthen your narrative and make your essay more compelling.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid using clichés or general statements that do not add value to your essay. Stay clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; your essay should feel personal and engaging. Do not invent facts or embellish experiences; authenticity is key. Lastly, make sure every paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall message.