Crafting Your Essay for the Maine Legislative Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your interest in finance or public service? Consider family influences, educational experiences, or pivotal moments that sparked your passion.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments relevant to your educational journey. Include metrics where possible—such as GPA, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your skills and commitment to your field.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help address. Be specific about your goals and how receiving this funding will bridge the gap in your academic and professional journey.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reflect your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal your dedication, work ethic, and vision for the future.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and logical flow. Consider the following outline:

1. Introduction: Open with a compelling moment or insight that relates to your background and aspirations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Organize your content by the four buckets. Dedicate one or two paragraphs to each, ensuring each section connects back to your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will empower you to achieve your educational goals and contribute to your community. Reinforce the significance of your journey and future impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice to convey your message. Avoid generic statements and instead focus on specific experiences and outcomes. Emphasize reflection by addressing the “So what?” behind your experiences—what did you learn, and why does it matter? This approach will engage the reader and demonstrate your thoughtful consideration of your journey.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and depth. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if each section answers the “So what?” question—what significance does your story hold for your future and the community?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you write, be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not provide insight into your unique experiences.
• Do not rely on passive voice; instead, take ownership of your achievements and experiences.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable; do not invent details about your background or achievements.
• Steer clear of generic introductions; instead, engage the reader with a specific moment or insight.