How to Craft Your Essay for the Buffalo Post SAME Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your experiences that shaped your interest in engineering or military service. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, such as academic honors, leadership roles, or relevant projects. Quantify your achievements where possible—include metrics, timeframes, and specific responsibilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help you address. Explain how further study aligns with your career goals and the skills you wish to develop.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and motivations. Use anecdotes that highlight your character and commitment to your field.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. Each section should have a clear purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that captures your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four material buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and flows logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your growth and how this scholarship will help you achieve your future goals. Answer the “So what?” question—why does your story matter?

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about engineering,” describe a specific moment when you realized your passion. Use concrete details to illustrate your points and keep the reader engaged.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and coherence. Ensure each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reinforces your commitment to your field. Ask yourself if the essay answers the “So what?” question effectively—what impact do you hope to make in your career?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague language and superlatives without evidence.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself.
• Do not include invented facts or experiences—stay honest and authentic.
• Refrain from using clichés or generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.