How to Craft Your Essay for the Nicholas J. Fillmore Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

Organize your thoughts by considering the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider challenges you have faced and how they have influenced your goals.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Quantify your achievements with metrics, such as grades, awards, or leadership roles, to provide concrete evidence of your capabilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of education or resources and explain how this scholarship will bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and how this funding will facilitate them.
• Personality: Highlight aspects of your character that set you apart. Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and motivations, making your essay relatable and memorable.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. A clear structure will help guide your writing. Consider the following sections:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the material buckets. Ensure each section flows logically to the next, maintaining a coherent narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to achieving your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements or clichés. Instead of saying you are “passionate” about something, demonstrate that passion through examples and experiences. Engage the reader by showing rather than telling.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your essay reflects personal growth and insight. Highlight how your experiences will contribute to your future and the community.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include fabricated details or achievements.
• Steer clear of overly complex language; clarity is key.
• Ensure your essay is free of grammatical errors and typos.