How to Write an Essay for the Norman Hostetler Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather your thoughts and experiences by organizing them into the four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped who you are. Consider specific moments that influenced your path.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your responsibilities and the outcomes of your efforts.
• The Gap: Recognize what you currently lack in terms of skills, knowledge, or opportunities. Explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap and contribute to your educational journey.
• Personality: Think about the personal qualities that define you. Include anecdotes or details that reveal your values, interests, and what makes you unique.

Creating an Outline

With your materials organized, create an outline for your essay. Structure it in a way that flows logically from one section to the next. A suggested format might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling in-scene moment or personal story that captures the reader's attention.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, demonstrate that passion through specific examples and outcomes. Each section should reflect on what you learned from your experiences and why those lessons matter.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your first draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself: “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that you are not only describing experiences but also reflecting on how they have shaped your goals and aspirations. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors, and revise accordingly to strengthen your arguments and clarity.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not engage the reader.
• Do not include invented facts or experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice where possible; your essay should reflect your active role in your experiences.
• Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative.