How to Write Your Essay for the Will P. Roberts, Jr. Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across these four areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and values that have shaped you. Consider how these elements influence your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments, such as academic achievements, leadership roles, or community service. Use specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Analyze what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help address. Be clear about why further study is essential for your goals.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that showcase your character. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to structure your essay logically. Aim for a clear introduction, body, and conclusion:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Body: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Use transitions to guide the reader through your narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will facilitate your educational and career goals, emphasizing the broader impact you hope to achieve.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, illustrate this through concrete examples and outcomes. Ensure that every section answers the question, “So what?” to highlight the significance of your experiences.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and engagement in your writing. Ask yourself if your essay effectively conveys your unique story and how the scholarship fits into your future plans. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be wary of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active construction to energize your writing.
• Ensure that every detail serves a purpose in advancing your narrative.