Crafting Your Essay for The Dandley Internship Award

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material from the following four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences, family, and education. What events or influences have shaped your academic journey?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments. Include metrics, roles, and the impact of your contributions. Think about leadership roles, projects, or recognition you’ve received.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. What knowledge or skills do you need to develop further? Explain how the Dandley Internship Award will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What motivates you? How do you engage with your community or peers?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, perhaps by recounting a specific moment that exemplifies your journey. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude by reiterating your commitment to making a positive impact and how the scholarship aligns with your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and achievements. Aim for clarity and specificity; avoid vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, illustrate this passion with concrete examples and outcomes. Ensure every paragraph has a clear focus, contributing to the overall narrative.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your work critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does it reflect your growth? Does it connect to your goals? Ensure that your reflections on experiences highlight what you learned and how it shapes your future. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Open with a specific moment or experience instead of broad declarations.
• Steer clear of empty superlatives. Support your claims with evidence and specific achievements.
• Do not use passive voice unnecessarily. Always strive for clarity and directness in your writing.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are authentic and verifiable.