Robert Morris School Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences, challenges, or influences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family, community, or significant events that have motivated you.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Quantify your achievements where possible—mention specific projects, leadership roles, or community service initiatives. What impact did these have on your personal growth or your community?
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your education or experience. Why is this scholarship critical for you? Discuss how further study at The Pittsburgh Foundation will help you bridge this gap and achieve your goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique? Share specific moments that illustrate your resilience, commitment, or perspective.

Outline Your Essay

Organizing your thoughts into a clear outline will help ensure logical flow and coherence. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and challenges, focusing on specific actions and their outcomes.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future. Reiterate your commitment to your goals and how they align with the scholarship’s mission.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Show your personality through your word choice and sentence structure. Avoid clichés and ensure each detail contributes to your narrative. Reflect on what you have learned through your experiences and why it matters to your future.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does your essay clearly convey your motivations and aspirations? Ensure that every paragraph serves a purpose and that your reflections are meaningful.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes:

• Using clichés or vague expressions that lack specificity.
• Writing in passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Including invented facts or experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Neglecting to proofread for grammar and clarity.