How to Craft Your Essay for the Dr. Ann McGreevy Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a comprehensive essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, educational influences, and pivotal moments that shaped your desire to pursue a career in education.
• Achievements: List specific accomplishments related to your educational journey. Include metrics where possible, such as volunteer hours, leadership roles, or innovative projects you've undertaken.
• The Gap: Identify any areas where you feel you lack experience or knowledge. Explain how receiving this scholarship will help bridge that gap and enhance your educational journey.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and unique perspective as an aspiring educator.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a specific moment or story that illustrates your passion for education.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to highlight achievements and challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and your commitment to making a difference in the field of education.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific details and reflections that convey your unique journey. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section to highlight the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflections and connect your experiences back to the scholarship’s goals. Ensure each paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative about your aspirations and readiness for further study.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate your experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in achievements.
• Ensure your essay is well-organized, with clear transitions between ideas.