How to Write Your Essay for the Thomas M. Eustis Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by reflecting on the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider your personal history, including family influences, educational experiences, and community involvement. What shaped your aspirations?
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, including academic honors, extracurricular activities, or leadership roles. Quantify your impact with metrics where possible.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to achieve your educational goals. Why is this scholarship essential for your journey? Be specific about how it will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. What values and passions drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your character.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. Each section should address a specific bucket, ensuring a logical flow. Start with a compelling introduction that sets the scene or shares a significant moment in your life. Follow with paragraphs dedicated to each bucket, using transitions to guide the reader through your narrative.

Drafting Voice and Structure

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Each paragraph should center around one main idea, supported by specific examples. Avoid clichés and general statements; instead, aim for authenticity and detail. Use the STAR method to structure your achievements: describe the Situation, the Task you undertook, the Action you took, and the Result of your efforts.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay critically, asking yourself if each section answers the “So what?” question. What insights have you gained? How does your story connect to your future goals? Ensure that your conclusion reinforces your commitment to making a positive impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay:

• Avoid vague language or empty superlatives. Instead, focus on concrete examples that illustrate your points.
• Do not use passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself or others.
• Steer clear of generic openings and conclusions. Aim for a unique narrative that reflects your individual journey.