How to Write Your Essay for the Robert C. Digges Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material that fits into the following four categories:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. What personal stories can you share that illustrate your commitment to education?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact and leadership. For instance, did you lead a project that resulted in measurable benefits?
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how further study will enable you to achieve them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with details that reveal your character and values. What makes you unique? Consider sharing a personal anecdote that highlights your resilience or determination.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically to enhance readability. A suggested outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that draws the reader in.
2. Background: Discuss your personal history and how it has influenced your educational goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight significant accomplishments and their impact.
4. The Gap: Explain what you hope to gain from this scholarship and how it fits into your future plans.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and ensure that each paragraph presents a single idea. Use specific examples to support your claims and always answer the “So what?” question—why does this matter to you and to the committee?

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take a step back and revise with fresh eyes. Look for opportunities to enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each section contributes to your overall narrative and addresses the scholarship’s goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain perspective.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following missteps:

• Avoid generic statements that do not provide specific evidence of your qualifications.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself.
• Do not include invented facts or experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from using overly complex language; aim for clarity and directness.