Proposals, Essays, & Personal Statements

It cannot be stressed enough— your writing is the most important part of your application. It is also the only aspect a candidate controls entirely.

It probably goes without saying that this component of the application is the one that applicants find the most intimidating and difficult. Interestingly, you might discover that at the end of the process it was the most rewarding.

Proposals

To craft an inspired proposal, an extensive background or high level of expertise is not always necessary.  Even so, preparation, experience, and research are essential. Don’t just pull an idea out of a hat! Think it through carefully, and discuss it with mentors to see if it sounds feasible and well-grounded. Then make sure those who read your application can tell how well-considered and important it is.

There are basically two types of proposals for the awards mentioned here:

Study/research proposals are perhaps the easiest for most candidates to write. They should be objective, methodical and clearly answer questions like “What do you plan to investigate?” “What preparations have you made?” “Why should the chosen institution invest in your inquiry, and what unique advantages does a relationship with you offer? and “What will be the measurable benefit of this work?”

Travel proposals should clearly show your awareness of the potential benefits and difficulties of living/working/studying abroad. Do your homework regarding the area’s customs, conditions and regional uncertainties. Mention connections already forged and contingency plans if your intended destination is at all volatile. Showing your adaptability and resourcefulness will strengthen your case. Finally, write convincingly about why and how your proposal will accomplish your important goals.

Essays

Essays are essentially an extension of you—your past experiences, current skills, ongoing interests and future ambitions.

Each granting agency has its own rules regarding the essay.  Many foundation websites have examples of past essays posted. Take the time to read them to get a sense of what was successful. Also, the Graduate Fellowships Committee may know of faculty members on campus who have experience with a particular award, and can arrange for you to contact that individual.

Your writing is your opportunity to reach the selection committee, and should create the best impression.  An essay should add dimension to the information already contained in a résumé or transcript, instead of merely repeating it. Personal statements should reflect your background, experiences, values and point of view. Focus on your growth and development. Don’t be timid about allowing the reader to get a glimpse of your passions and concerns. Ask yourself often, “Is my voice coming through clearly?”  Use concrete examples to drive your points home.

Ask faculty members in your department, advisor and peers for feedback–not just in the initial stages, but throughout the redrafting process. Listen, respond and do not become defensive when presented with criticism. Material presented to the GFC should feel like a well-honed final draft — yet, be prepared to revise it again based on committee suggestions.

Most essays and proposals have a finite word or character limit. You must adhere to them.  Don’t force a committee to toss your application out of the running because you didn’t follow instructions.

Personal Statements

A project proposal or plan of study is required by some foundations to explain your motivation for applying for the fellowship, including a targeted plan for study or research, your future goals, and your qualifications.

Carefully read the mission statement of the fellowship to ensure that you are targeting their stated purpose in your essay.

• Describe how the fellowship will allow you to reach your proposed goals.
• Consult with faculty and others who have expertise in your field to help with developing and fine-turning your proposal.
• Cater your essay to your audience. What do you want them to know about you?
• Distinguish yourself from the other candidates by pointing out uniqueness.
• Engage the reader by telling a story, descriptive writing, and/or select a theme that is carried throughout the essay. Do not write a laundry list of accomplishments.
• Proofread for clarity, grammatical errors, structure, and succinctness. And then do it again.

Caroline Cracraft, the Vice Consul for the Marshall suggests:

• Grab your audience and convey passion for your topic.
• Tell them upfront what you want to do.
• Don’t sprinkle your essay with quotes unless they are REALLY relevant.
• The essay must match the candidate: If it does not match up with the other materials received (Letter of Recommendations, interview, etc.), you lose credibility.
• Have two or three people read your essay.
• Use spell check!

Ask others who know you well, and maybe even some who don’t, to review your essay. Friends, family, classmates, the Writing Specialists, faculty, and the BCDC are examples of people that can be helpful. By receiving input from people outside your area of interest, you can verify that your topic has been clearly explained.

If you are having difficulty starting the essay, leave writing your introduction to the end and focus on the points you want to get across. Just start writing without judging what your first draft looks like. Remember, students are rarely struck by inspiration. A good essay comes from revisions. Even the best students will revise their essay at least seven times!