How to Craft Your Essay for the Mary D. Tateosian Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets to help structure your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped you? Consider family influences, cultural background, or pivotal moments that led you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. This could include academic successes, leadership roles, community service, or any relevant projects. Use specific metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your experience. What do you lack that further study at Worcester State University can provide? Be honest about your needs and articulate how the scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your character. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your personality and illustrate your commitment to your goals.

Outlining Your Essay

With your material gathered, create an outline. Start with a strong opening that immerses the reader in a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a powerful closing that reiterates your goals and the significance of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, "I have always been passionate about education," provide a concrete example of how your passion has manifested in your life. Remember to reflect on your experiences—what did you learn, and why does it matter? Each paragraph should logically flow to the next, building a cohesive narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for areas where you can enhance clarity and engagement. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major section. Does it convey your journey, your aspirations, and the impact this scholarship will have on your future? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; prioritize clarity and active engagement.