How to Write an Essay for the Sam G. Hughes Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To structure your essay effectively, gather material across the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal journey. What experiences have shaped your identity and aspirations? Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant life events.
• Achievements: List your key accomplishments, focusing on specific metrics and outcomes. What leadership roles have you held, and what impact did you make? Use numbers and details to quantify your contributions.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. What skills or knowledge do you currently lack, and how will this scholarship help you bridge that gap? Be clear about your academic and professional goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with humanizing details. What values drive you? Share anecdotes that reveal your character and passion.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling in-scene moment or anecdote that captures your reader's attention.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure a logical flow, connecting your background to your achievements, the gap, and your personality.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how this scholarship will impact your future. What commitments are you making to your community and field of study?

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice and be specific in your descriptions. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, demonstrate this through your experiences and aspirations. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, leading the reader through your narrative smoothly.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained, and why do they matter? Ensure that your essay reflects growth and a commitment to making a difference in your community or field.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays:

• Avoid vague statements and superlatives without evidence.
• Do not use passive voice when you can articulate actions clearly.
• Steer clear of bureaucratic language that lacks personal touch.
• Never invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key.