Crafting Your Essay for the Don Little Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your interest in the railroad industry or your connection to the Brotherhood? Consider family influences, community involvement, or any relevant experiences.
• Achievements: Identify your accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment and capabilities. This could include academic achievements, leadership roles, or community service. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you still need to achieve your goals. What gaps exist in your education or experience that this scholarship will help fill? Be clear about how further study will enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. What motivates you? What are your passions beyond academics? Specific anecdotes can help paint a vivid picture of who you are.

Outline Your Essay

Construct a clear outline to organize your thoughts. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or anecdote that illustrates your connection to the Brotherhood or your passion for your field.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to frame your achievements and experiences clearly.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will help you bridge your current situation to your future goals. Reiterate your commitment to making a positive impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice to engage the reader. Avoid vague statements and instead focus on concrete details. Each paragraph should have a clear focus and transition smoothly to the next. Ensure that your reflections answer the “So what?” question—why do your experiences matter in the context of this scholarship?

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Does it clearly convey your background, achievements, gaps, and personality? Ensure that your reflections provide insight into your motivations and future aspirations. Seek feedback from mentors or peers who can offer constructive criticism.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid cliché openers and filler language. Start with a strong, specific moment.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without supporting evidence.
• Do not use passive voice when describing your actions.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable.