How to Craft Your Essay for the TSC Model UN Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your worldview. Consider pivotal moments in your education or personal life that relate to your interest in Model UN and global issues.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, particularly those related to leadership, teamwork, or public speaking. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience and how the scholarship will help fill that gap. Be specific about your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and how you connect with others.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Start with an engaging introduction that hooks the reader with a specific moment or experience. Follow with body paragraphs that address each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly into the next. Conclude with a reflection on how this scholarship will enable you to make a broader impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your role in each experience. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide concrete details that illustrate your points. Every section should answer the question, “So what?”—demonstrating the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take a step back and revise for clarity and impact. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overall message and reflects on your growth. Ask yourself how your experiences have prepared you for the future and how this scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Don’t exaggerate or invent experiences; honesty is crucial.
• Steer clear of overly complex language; clarity is key.
• Ensure your essay maintains a logical flow and coherence throughout.