How to Craft Your Essay for the Theresa Gail May Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by considering the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family, education, and experiences that have shaped you. Consider how these elements motivate your educational pursuits.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics or outcomes where possible, such as GPA, awards, or leadership roles.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current educational journey and how the scholarship will help fill that gap. Be honest about your financial needs and articulate how this support will enable your success.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values, interests, and character. This will help the committee see you as a well-rounded individual.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a clear outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene, possibly through a personal story or pivotal moment. Then, structure the body of your essay into sections that correspond to the four buckets. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your education and future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and be specific. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about your field, illustrate this through concrete examples. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, with clear transitions to guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections on experiences and achievements clearly convey their significance and relevance to your future.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always identify the actor in your sentences.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is key.
• Ensure that every paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.