How to Write Your Essay for the VWEA Rising Freshman Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets that will shape your essay:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including any experiences related to environmental issues or water management. What events or influences have shaped your interest in this field?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership, initiative, or impact. This could include projects, volunteer work, or academic successes related to environmental science.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn or experience. Why is pursuing this scholarship important for your educational journey? How will it help you address the gaps in your knowledge or skills?
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Share details that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This will help the committee connect with you on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your essay. A suggested structure includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or experience that highlights your connection to water environment issues.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use specific examples and metrics where possible to illustrate your points.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how this scholarship will impact your future and your commitment to making a difference in the water environment sector.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about the environment, describe a specific project where you took action. Use precise language and provide details that support your claims.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph reflects not only what you did, but also what you learned and how it matters to your future goals. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate your achievements; stay honest and grounded.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role in experiences.
• Ensure that your essay flows logically from one section to the next, maintaining coherence throughout.