How to Write Your Essay for the Element Health Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To effectively organize your thoughts, explore the four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your understanding of diversity and inclusion? Consider family, community, or educational influences.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments related to your commitment to diversity and inclusion. This could include leadership roles, community service, or projects that had measurable impacts.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship could help address. Be clear about how further study will enhance your ability to contribute to the field.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with humanizing details. What values guide your actions? How do you approach challenges? Specific anecdotes can illustrate your character.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. Begin with a compelling opening that draws the reader in with a concrete moment or scene. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph maintains focus on a single idea. Conclude by linking your background, achievements, and future goals back to the scholarship’s mission.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide specific examples and measurable outcomes. Each paragraph should transition smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear narrative flow that engages the reader.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself: What have I learned from each experience? Why does it matter? Ensure that every section answers the “So what?” question, reflecting on personal growth and future aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid common mistakes such as:

• Starting with clichéd phrases or broad statements.
• Using passive voice or vague language.
• Neglecting to connect personal experiences to the scholarship’s goals.
• Failing to proofread for clarity and coherence.