How to Craft Your Essay for the Theresa Lackey Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material from these four areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. Consider any experiences with organ donation or transplantation that have shaped your perspective.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Highlight leadership roles, community service, or academic successes that demonstrate your commitment to helping others.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek further growth. Explain how this scholarship will bridge the gap between your current situation and your educational aspirations.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reveal your values and motivations. Be specific about what drives you and how it connects to your future goals.

Creating Your Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section should focus on one main idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your experiences related to the scholarship's mission.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a difference and how the scholarship will enable you to do so.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate, show your passion through your actions and achievements.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, focus on revisions. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections explain why your experiences matter and how they connect to your future goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid generic openers. Start with a specific moment that captures your story.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences. Authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active constructions to convey your actions.
• Eliminate bureaucratic language. Keep your writing clear and engaging.