How to Write an Essay for the Family Therapy Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the following four buckets:

• Background: Consider your personal history and experiences that have shaped your interest in family therapy. What life events or influences led you to this path?
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment and capabilities. This could include academic achievements, relevant work experience, or community involvement in mental health or family services.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship can help you address. Why is further study essential for your professional growth?
• Personality: Think about the qualities that make you unique. What personal values or experiences can you share that illustrate your character and dedication to family therapy?

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. Structure your essay to include:

1. An engaging introduction that presents a concrete moment or scene related to your journey in family therapy.
2. A section on your background, detailing the experiences that led you to this field.
3. A discussion of your achievements, using specific metrics or outcomes to highlight your contributions.
4. A clear explanation of the gap in your education or experience and how the scholarship will help you bridge it.
5. A conclusion that ties everything together, reflecting on your journey and commitment to making an impact in the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write your essay, use an active voice and maintain a reflective tone. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific details and insights that reveal your motivations and aspirations. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, guiding the reader through your narrative logically.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself: What insights have I shared? How have I changed through my experiences? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating why your journey matters to your future in family therapy.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not use vague language; be specific about your achievements and experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role in your journey.
• Never fabricate details about your experiences or accomplishments.