How to Write Your Essay for the Rita E. Cawley '39 Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material by exploring the following four areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including family influences, community involvement, and significant experiences that shaped your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours, to illustrate your contributions.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be honest about your needs and articulate how further study will enhance your skills and opportunities.
• Personality: Think about unique aspects of your character, values, and interests. Share personal anecdotes that reveal who you are beyond your achievements.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically to guide the reader through your narrative. A suggested outline is:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or experience that encapsulates your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section connects back to the scholarship's goals.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and how the scholarship will empower you to achieve them.

Drafting Voice and Style

Adopt an active voice throughout your essay. Avoid passive constructions that dilute your message. Use precise language and specific examples to illustrate your points. Remember to engage the reader with a narrative that showcases your journey and aspirations.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

Once your draft is complete, review it critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph offers insight into your character or motivations and reinforces your fit for the scholarship. Edit for clarity, coherence, and conciseness.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not add value to your essay. Steer clear of generic phrases like “I have always been passionate about” without concrete examples. Additionally, ensure all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable, as integrity is crucial in scholarship applications.