How to Write a Compelling Essay for the O'Brien Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across these four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped who you are today. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement that have contributed to your personal growth.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack that further education will help you achieve. This could be skills, knowledge, or opportunities that you hope to gain through your studies at Worcester State University.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. This might include anecdotes that highlight your resilience, creativity, or commitment to helping others.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. A strong structure will help guide your writing:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures the reader's attention and sets the tone for your essay.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and flows logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate how the O'Brien Scholarship will help you achieve your educational and career goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Each sentence should contribute to your narrative, showcasing your unique perspective and experiences. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on what you learned and how it has influenced your aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and connects back to your main theme. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Revisit the “So what?” question to ensure your reflections are clear and meaningful.

Pitfalls to Avoid

As you prepare your essay, be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements that fail to engage the reader.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences; honesty is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language that can obscure your message.
• Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and typos, as these can detract from your credibility.