How to Write an Essay for the Freddi L. Greenberg Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather your thoughts by exploring four key material buckets:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, formative experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments—academic, extracurricular, or community-related—that demonstrate your capabilities. Use metrics and outcomes to illustrate these achievements.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational and career aspirations.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. Include details that humanize your narrative and resonate with the committee.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a concrete moment from your life. Follow with sections for each of the four material buckets, ensuring that each section transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will impact your future.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, provide a specific example of how that passion has driven you to take action. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, clearly articulated to maintain logical progression.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revise your essay with a focus on clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section—what does this reveal about you, and why should it matter to the committee? Ensure that your reflections are meaningful and demonstrate growth or insight.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in your writing. Avoid generic openings and overused phrases. Ensure your facts are accurate and do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Stay away from passive voice and bureaucratic language; instead, strive for clarity and engagement in your writing.