How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Kantwill Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To develop a rich and engaging essay, gather material across these four areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any formative experiences that shaped your interest in public and human services. Consider moments that ignited your passion for helping others.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments related to your field. Use metrics, such as volunteer hours or leadership roles, to demonstrate your impact. What responsibilities did you take on, and what were the outcomes?
• The Gap: Consider what you still need to learn or achieve. Why is further study at Loyola University Chicago essential for your growth? Articulate how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values and character. Specific stories can humanize your application and make it memorable.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section of your essay should have a distinct focus:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that illustrates your connection to public service.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they led you to this path.
3. Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments, using the STAR method to structure your examples.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational and professional aspirations and how the scholarship will help you reach them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your commitment to making a difference in the field and how you envision your future.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice. Use vivid, specific language to create a connection with the reader. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on concrete details and personal insights. Ensure each paragraph transitions logically to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and evaluate your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Does your essay clearly convey your motivations and aspirations? Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Revise for clarity, coherence, and emotional impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion; instead, provide evidence of your commitment.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are accurate and verifiable.