How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Schmidt Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material from four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, influences, and experiences that have shaped your identity as an artist. Consider specific moments or people that inspired you to pursue art.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your artistic career. Quantify these where possible—mention exhibitions, awards, or projects that demonstrate your skill and commitment.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your artistic education or experience. Think about how this scholarship will help bridge that gap and enable you to achieve your goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've faced and how they have shaped your artistic vision.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that logically organizes your thoughts. Aim for a clear structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that captures your passion for art.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Use the STAR method to detail achievements and challenges, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future as an artist and your commitment to making a difference in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements and instead focus on concrete examples that illustrate your points. Use transitions effectively to guide the reader through your narrative, ensuring each paragraph flows logically into the next.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph answers this question, demonstrating why your experiences and aspirations matter. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, and the emotional impact of your writing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and overused phrases that detract from your unique voice.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure your essay is free of grammatical errors and flows well.