How to Craft Your Essay for the Richard H. Aulebach Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider significant moments that influenced your decision to attend UVA.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Highlight leadership roles, community involvement, or academic success that demonstrate your potential.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain how the scholarship will bridge these gaps and enhance your education at UVA.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values, interests, and motivations. This humanizing detail can help the committee connect with you as an individual.

Outlining Your Essay

Creating an outline will help structure your essay effectively. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or experience. Then, organize your essay into clear sections corresponding to the four buckets. Ensure each section flows logically to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, provide examples of how you have engaged with it. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, allowing for clarity and depth in your writing.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Look for opportunities to deepen your reflections. After each major point, ask yourself, “So what?” This will help you articulate the significance of your experiences and how they relate to your future goals. Ensure that your conclusion ties back to your introduction and reinforces your commitment to making an impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value.
• Do not include fabricated details or exaggerations about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always identify the actor in your sentences.
• Ensure that every paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.