How to Write Your Essay for the Tither's Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider significant experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. This could include family influences, community involvement, or formative educational experiences.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Use metrics where possible, such as leadership roles, academic honors, or community service projects, and detail the impact of these achievements.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current educational journey and how the Tither's Scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how this funding will enable you to reach them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This helps the committee see you as a whole person rather than just a list of qualifications.

Outline Your Essay

Creating an outline will help you structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, perhaps with a specific moment or experience. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship aligns with your future aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, aim for a voice that is active and specific. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are “passionate” about something, illustrate this with concrete examples that demonstrate your commitment. Each paragraph should flow logically into the next, guiding the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that you are not only presenting information but also reflecting on its significance. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences shape your future contributions? This reflection is crucial for making your essay resonate with the committee.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

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

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements that do not engage the reader.
• Steer clear of vague language; be specific about your experiences and achievements.
• Do not rely on passive voice; use active voice to convey your actions and impact.
• Ensure that all details are truthful and verifiable; do not fabricate experiences or achievements.