How to Craft Your Essay for the Elsbeth Furlong Narwold Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from these four essential buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider moments that sparked your interest in your field of study.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that showcase your skills and dedication. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as projects completed, leadership roles held, or challenges overcome.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational experience and why further study is essential. This could include specific skills, knowledge, or opportunities that the scholarship will help you access.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that highlight your resilience, creativity, or passion for your field.

Structuring Your Essay

Begin by outlining your essay to ensure a logical flow of ideas. A strong structure typically includes:

1. Introduction: Start with an engaging moment or scenario that draws the reader in. Avoid generic statements and aim to set the tone for your narrative.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, derived from your brainstorming. Use the STAR method to illustrate achievements and experiences, ensuring you describe the situation, task, action taken, and result.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact in your field. Reinforce how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and use precise language. Avoid vague expressions and clichés. Instead, focus on specific examples and details that illustrate your points. Keep your tone confident yet humble, showcasing your accomplishments without overstating them.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity and coherence in your writing. Each paragraph should answer the question, “So what?” by explaining the significance of your experiences and how they relate to your future goals. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements that do not engage the reader.
• Do not rely on vague language; instead, provide concrete examples and measurable outcomes.
• Steer clear of passive voice; ensure your writing is dynamic and reflects your active role in your experiences.
• Do not fabricate details or achievements; authenticity is crucial in making a genuine connection with the committee.