"Yourself", "your career aspirations" and "why you think you deserve this bursary?"

I am applying for a health sciences research bursary for high school students. Good marks and extracurriculars aside, the application requires a 1000 word essay on "yourself", "your career aspirations" and "why you think you deserve this bursary?" "You may like to include your extra curriculars, hobbies and/or any other special interests". (These are the instructions)

Now, I have a variety of ideas and a variety of questions as this is my first time writing this sort of essay. The problem I seem to have (apart from writer's block) is that I'm not sure how to string together the required topics in an essay that flows. The "yourself" and "career aspirations" portions are easily woven together, but I'm not sure how to write about that last part without sounding boastful or cocky. Also, do you think it's a good idea to write this essay about a person who strongly influenced me, taught me to value what I do value, interested me in pursuing life science, pushed me to pursue activities etc that I am most proud of (related to why I am qualified)? I thought that may be a nice way to incorporate all three elements in an essay that has a singular topic instead of drifting around everywhere. Opinions? Is it alright to write about someone who influenced you as a way of presenting yourself as the essay does specify "yourself"?

Thank you very much.
This is my first post and I'm excited to later put up the essay once it's done to get some brilliant opinons. This site seems wonderful.

You know I think you must brag a Little . Choose your applicable accomplishments and contextualize them. While it's important to boast, never lie or embellish.

Also writing about that person sounds okay as long that's not the only thing that makes you qualified . And it might help you stand out if written creatively with a good structure .It'll kind of give a story feel to your essay , something that the reader will remember .

You should definitely include about the person who helped you to acquire this position! Writing essays doesn't always mean to be formal or erratic...the reader would feel you and be immensely satisfied! ;) how could you not include about the brick which stood-up the building ;P

Write a detailed description of your research objectives.
Try to answer such questions:
What you hope to get from your research?
Why do you want to explore this field?