How to Write Your Sigma Tau Delta Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Explore your personal history and influences. What experiences have shaped your educational goals? Consider family, culture, and significant events.
• Achievements: Identify your key accomplishments. Focus on specific metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your dedication and impact. Include leadership roles, projects, or contributions to your community.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic or professional aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with details that reveal who you are. What values drive you? What unique perspectives do you bring to your field of study?

Creating an Outline

With your brainstorming complete, create a structured outline. Each section of your essay should focus on one key idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your influences and formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that relate to your educational goals.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate what you need to advance your education and how the scholarship fits into this.
5. Personality: Share insights into your values and motivations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express gratitude for the opportunity to apply.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid overly complex sentences and jargon. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. Remember to incorporate reflection: after each major point, ask yourself, “So what?” This will help clarify the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

Once your draft is complete, set it aside for a day before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, providing insight into your motivations and aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not add value to your narrative. Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language. Ensure that all facts about your experiences are accurate and verifiable. Lastly, do not forget to proofread for grammar and spelling errors, as these can detract from the professionalism of your essay.