Brainstorm your career aspirations and goals. Jot down your short-term and long-term goals, the people or events that kindled and confirmed your interest in a field and the reasons you want to make it your career. Note personal skills and traits that not only make the career a good fit, but also ensure your success going forward. List other qualities, activities and accomplishments that could help your readers appreciate your interest, sincerity and potential.
Research the institution or organization that will receive your essay. Note what differentiates it from competing organizations, and the distinct programs or resources that it provides to students with your same interests. You can find this information readily on most college and scholarship websites. If you personally know any past graduates or recipients, consult them as well.
Review what you have been asked to address in your essay. Some organizations want to know more than just your career goals or how they can help you achieve them. For example, they may ask for your thoughts on the significance of your chosen career. Create an essay outline that assigns a section to each question to ensure that you address each one, preferably in the order asked,
Compose a strong, memorable introduction that makes your readers want more. Begin with a personal story, humor or an inspiring quote that relates relevantly and flows naturally into your essay's body. You may write the introduction after you have written everything else to ensure that it frames the rest of your essay properly.
Develop your essay's body to answer all questions using the information that you gathered in Steps 1 and 2. Organize your thoughts logically. For example, recount when you first contemplated the field, what happened later to confirm it and how you have prepared for your career since. Let your personality show through in your writing and back up all claims of character, performance and passion with facts and evidence. For example, instead of simply saying that you are passionate about writing, describe your blog and various editorial positions you have held in school, at work or in the community.
Conclude your essay confidently and passionately. Summarize the points you made in your essay. Suggest a win-win situation between you and the organization should you gain admission or a scholarship.