How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Winnie C. Tanner Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community engagement, or challenges you’ve overcome.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and professional goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with details that showcase who you are. What values drive you? What unique perspectives do you bring to your studies and community?

Structuring Your Essay

Organize your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A common structure includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that introduces your story. Avoid generic statements; instead, create a vivid image that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one idea. Discuss your background, achievements, and the gap in your education, ensuring each section answers the “So what?” question.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your key points and reiterate how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals. End with a strong statement about your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and aspirations. Be specific and concrete, avoiding vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about education, illustrate that passion with examples of how you have engaged with learning or taught others.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself if each section reflects your journey and aspirations. Does it showcase your unique qualities? Ensure that your reflections are clear and articulate why your experiences matter, both to you and to the scholarship committee.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not rely on passive voice; ensure your writing is active and engaging.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without backing them up with concrete examples.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.