Crafting Your Essay for the A. Elizabeth Ryan Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and experiences that have shaped your interest in social work. Consider significant moments, challenges, or influences that led you to this field.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Examples could include leadership roles, community service, or academic successes that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth through further education. Be specific about what knowledge or skills you lack and how attending Loyola University will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've overcome or moments that define your perspective on social work.

Structuring Your Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that logically organizes your thoughts. Each section of your essay should focus on a single idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that draws the reader in. Avoid generic statements and aim for specificity.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a coherent narrative flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences and aspirations align with the mission of the A. Elizabeth Ryan School of Social Work. Highlight your commitment to making a difference in the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, focus on tangible examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should answer the “So what?” question, reflecting on the significance of your experiences.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your first draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself if each section effectively conveys your message and aligns with the scholarship’s values. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Be open to revising sections that may not resonate strongly.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid using cliché openers or filler content that does not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of vague statements about your passion for social work. Instead, provide specific examples that demonstrate your commitment.
• Ensure that all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable. Do not embellish your achievements or invent experiences.