How to Write Your Essay for the Thomas V. Murray, Sr. Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a strong foundation for your essay, brainstorm ideas across these four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped you. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement that highlight your connection to Worcester State University.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics or specific examples to show how you have made an impact in your academic or extracurricular pursuits.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and the resources you need to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. This could include anecdotes that reveal your motivations or challenges you have overcome.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your ideas, create an outline to organize your thoughts. Structure your essay to include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that encapsulates your journey. Avoid generic statements; instead, draw the reader in with a specific experience.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one main idea. Use the STAR method to describe your achievements and challenges, detailing the situation, task, action, and result.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for the future and why this scholarship is crucial for your educational aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, focus on tangible examples and insights that demonstrate your commitment to your education and community.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting your essay, take a step back and assess its impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Ensure that every section of your essay contributes to a coherent narrative about your journey and aspirations. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; make sure your actions and responsibilities are clear.
• Ensure your essay flows logically from one idea to the next, maintaining clarity and coherence.