How to Craft Your Essay for the Arrupe to Loyola Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider your upbringing, formative experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. What events or people have inspired you to pursue higher education?
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact, such as leadership roles, community service hours, or academic awards.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education and how the Arrupe to Loyola Scholarship will help you bridge this gap. Be specific about your academic and professional goals and why further study at Loyola University Chicago is essential.
• Personality: Share personal details that humanize you. What values drive your decisions? What unique perspectives do you bring? Use anecdotes that reveal your character and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered material in each bucket, create an outline for your essay. Start with a compelling introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections that explore your background, achievements, the gap, and personality. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to maintain flow and coherence.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, use specific examples and details that showcase your journey. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, supporting your overall narrative. Remember to reflect on the significance of each experience—answer the “So what?” question to emphasize why your story matters.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each section effectively communicates your message and contributes to your overall narrative. Are you clearly articulating why you deserve this scholarship? Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers to gain perspective.

Pitfalls to Avoid

As you write, be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid generic statements that do not provide insight into your unique experiences.
• Steer clear of overly complex language that may obscure your message.
• Do not fabricate details or achievements; authenticity is key.
• Refrain from using passive voice when you can express action actively.