Crafting Your Essay for the Craig Dempsey Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Begin by gathering material for your essay using the four buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any pivotal moments that shaped your values and ambitions. Consider experiences that connect you to Worcester State University.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments, whether academic, extracurricular, or community-related. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as leadership roles or projects completed.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your education or skills and how this scholarship can bridge that gap. Discuss your goals and how further study at Worcester State will facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This could include challenges you've faced and how they've influenced your perspective.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure is key to a compelling essay. Start with a clear outline that includes:

1. Introduction: Begin with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey. This should engage the reader and set the tone for your essay.
2. Body Paragraphs: Organize your content by the four buckets. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. Use the STAR method to describe significant achievements and challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you’ve learned and how you plan to apply these lessons in the future. Emphasize the importance of the scholarship in helping you achieve your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be active and engaging. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about something, demonstrate this through specific examples. Use a confident tone that reflects your commitment to your goals.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each section. What does this reveal about you? Ensure that your reflections are clear and meaningful, connecting your experiences to your future aspirations.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Steer clear of common mistakes such as:

• Using generic openers or clichés.
• Incorporating passive voice when an active subject exists.
• Failing to provide specific details or metrics that support your claims.
• Neglecting to connect your personal narrative to the scholarship’s purpose.