How to Write a Winning Essay for the Vanessa Skeens Ward Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To develop a robust essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped you? Consider family influences, educational opportunities, and community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Quantify your achievements when possible—mention specific projects, leadership roles, or contributions to your community.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational journey. Explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap and enable you to achieve your goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that highlight your values and character. Specific moments can illustrate who you are beyond your achievements.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
2. Background: Provide context about your upbringing and influences.
3. Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments, using metrics where applicable.
4. The Gap: Discuss your educational goals and how the scholarship will facilitate your journey.
5. Personality: Share personal stories that reflect your values and aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making an impact in your community or field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, be specific about your experiences and insights. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, leading logically to the next. Ensure that your writing is reflective, answering the “So what?” for each section—what has changed in you and why does it matter?

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance specificity and clarity. Ensure that your reflections answer the “So what?” question—clarifying the significance of your experiences and how they shape your future. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain additional perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not engage the reader.
• Steer clear of vague language; instead, provide concrete examples and details.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure that your essay has a clear structure and logical flow.