How to Craft Your Essay for the Stephanie Hollis Graef Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather your thoughts and experiences by organizing them into four key material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational path? Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments. Include metrics where possible, such as GPA, awards, leadership roles, or community service hours. Focus on outcomes that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Consider specific skills or knowledge you wish to acquire through your studies at Bunker Hill Community College.
• Personality: Humanize your application by sharing personal anecdotes that reflect your values and character. What unique perspectives do you bring to the table?

Creating an Outline

Organize your ideas into a coherent structure. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a compelling moment or anecdote that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section flows logically to the next, maintaining a clear narrative thread.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how this scholarship will impact your future. Emphasize your commitment to using your education for the benefit of others.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, leading the reader through your narrative with clarity. Remember to reflect on the significance of each experience—answer the “So what?” to connect your story to the scholarship's mission.

Revision and Reflection

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, checking for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that your reflections resonate and demonstrate insight into your journey. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message further. Pay attention to grammar and style, ensuring your writing is polished and professional.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid cliché openers and filler phrases that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of vague language; specificity strengthens your essay.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure that your essay adheres to any word count or formatting guidelines specified by the scholarship.