How to Write Your RMHBDA Education Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including any experiences with hemophilia or bleeding disorders. Consider how these experiences have shaped your educational and career goals.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Quantify your achievements where possible, such as leadership roles, volunteer work, or relevant projects that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you address. Be specific about how further study will enable you to overcome these gaps.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This will humanize your application and connect with the reader.

Outline Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a specific moment or experience that captures your journey and draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets. Ensure that each section transitions smoothly into the next, maintaining a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future. Emphasize your commitment to using your education for the benefit of others.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your descriptions. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, "I have always been passionate about education," provide concrete examples of how you have pursued this passion through specific actions or initiatives.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself: What changed in me through these experiences? Why does this matter to the committee? Ensure that each paragraph answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating your growth and future impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements that do not provide insight into your unique experiences.
• Do not rely on overly emotional language without backing it up with specific examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Ensure that all information is accurate and verifiable, avoiding any fabricated details.