How to Write Your Essay for the Henry Respert Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring four key material buckets:

• Background: Identify experiences that shaped your interest in Alzheimer’s and dementia awareness. Consider personal stories, family experiences, or academic influences.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments related to your advocacy, leadership roles, or academic successes. Use metrics or outcomes to demonstrate impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in knowledge or experience that further study will address. Explain why this scholarship is crucial for your educational journey.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with humanizing details. Share your values, motivations, and what drives your passion for this field.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts logically:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene related to your experiences with Alzheimer's or dementia. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you’ve learned from your experiences and how this scholarship will empower you to make a difference in the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, and transitions should guide the reader through your narrative. Aim for a tone that is confident yet reflective, demonstrating your commitment to the cause.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay to ensure it addresses the “So what?” question. Reflect on how your experiences have changed you and why they matter in the context of the scholarship. Consider seeking feedback from trusted peers or mentors to gain fresh perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not rely on empty superlatives; instead, provide evidence of your achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to convey your actions and impact.
• Ensure all details are honest and verifiable; do not fabricate experiences or accolades.