How to Craft Your Essay for the William H. Walters Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, explore the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your values and goals. What unique perspectives do you bring?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Use specific metrics, such as leadership roles, community service hours, or academic honors, to provide concrete evidence of your success.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your experience that further study will help you address. Explain how this scholarship will bridge that gap and enable you to achieve your educational and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that humanize you. Share experiences that reveal your character, values, and what drives you.

Outlining Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts effectively. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene—consider opening with a specific moment or experience that illustrates your journey. Follow this with a clear progression through your background, achievements, the gap, and personality, ensuring each section transitions smoothly into the next.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, be specific about your experiences and their impact on your goals. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supporting your overall narrative. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on what you learned and why it matters.

Revision and “So What?”

Once your draft is complete, take a step back and review your work. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overarching narrative and answers the “So what?” question. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay. Avoid using clichés or overly broad statements that lack specificity. Ensure that all claims are backed by concrete examples and metrics. Additionally, steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; instead, write with clarity and conviction.