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

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material in the following categories:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. Consider your upbringing, key experiences, and influences that shaped your educational path.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Include academic achievements, community service, or leadership roles that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you need to further your education. Discuss any obstacles you've encountered and why receiving this scholarship is crucial for your academic journey.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, determination, or passion for your field of study.

Outline Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Background: Provide context about your life and experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that relate to your educational goals.
4. The Gap: Explain the challenges you face and how the scholarship will help you overcome them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on what you’ve learned and how you plan to make an impact in the future.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” provide a concrete example, such as, “During my volunteer work at the local tutoring center, I helped students improve their grades by an average of 20%.” This specificity adds credibility to your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself: What changed in me through this experience? Why does this matter? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating your growth and future aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not fabricate experiences or embellish achievements; honesty is crucial.
• Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; make your actions and intentions clear.