How to Craft Your Essay for the Brenda Baker Legacy Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant life events.
• Achievements: Identify your accomplishments. What projects, roles, or initiatives have you undertaken? Quantify your achievements where possible, such as leadership positions held or specific outcomes achieved.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational or professional journey. Why is further study necessary for you? Articulate how the scholarship will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. What values drive you? Include personal anecdotes that showcase your character and aspirations.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring a smooth transition between ideas. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to making a positive impact through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Begin with a concrete moment or scene that captures your reader's attention. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific details that illustrate your journey and aspirations. Reflect on your growth and what you have learned from your experiences, answering the “So what?” for each section.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity and coherence. Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism. Revisit the “So what?” question to ensure your essay resonates with the scholarship’s mission.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Steer clear of common mistakes such as:

• Using clichés or generic statements.
• Failing to provide specific examples or metrics for your achievements.
• Neglecting to connect your background and aspirations to the scholarship's goals.
• Writing in a passive voice or using overly complex language.