How to Write Your Essay for the Schlater Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to ensure a well-rounded essay:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider moments that sparked your interest in your field of study.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use metrics and examples to illustrate your impact. For instance, if you led a project, describe your role and its outcomes.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills, knowledge, or experiences that further education will help you address. Explain why this scholarship is crucial for your academic journey.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that showcase your values and character. These details help the committee see you as a well-rounded individual rather than just a list of achievements.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that reflects your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Background Section: Discuss your formative experiences and how they have influenced your educational goals.
3. Achievements Section: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities.
4. Gap Section: Clearly articulate what you hope to gain from further education and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap.
5. Personality Section: Conclude with a personal reflection that ties back to your introduction, emphasizing your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and ensure each paragraph focuses on one idea. Engage the reader with specific details and reflections. Instead of stating your passion, illustrate it through experiences and actions that demonstrate your commitment. Each section should answer the question, “So what?” to highlight the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ask yourself if each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives. Ensure your essay reflects your unique voice and story.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Start with a compelling moment instead.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate details about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself.
• Ensure your essay is well-structured, with logical transitions between sections.