How to Craft Your Essay for the Arrupe to Quinlan Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a comprehensive essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and formative experiences. What events or influences have shaped your academic and personal journey?
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Consider leadership roles, projects, or initiatives where you made a measurable impact.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your experience or knowledge that further education will address. Explain why attending Loyola University Chicago is essential for your personal and professional growth.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that reflect your values and character. What unique perspectives do you bring, and how do they inform your goals?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section of your essay should have a defined purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling in-scene moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Use one paragraph for each bucket, ensuring each section transitions smoothly to the next. Highlight your background, achievements, the gap you wish to fill, and your personality.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for the future and why this scholarship is crucial for your journey.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice. Use specific examples and details that illustrate your points. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate, show your passion through your actions and experiences. Make sure to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and impact. Each paragraph should contribute to the overall narrative of your essay. Ask yourself: Does this section reflect my journey? Does it connect back to the scholarship’s values? Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Clichés: Avoid overused phrases and generalizations that dilute your message.
• Passive Voice: Use active voice to convey confidence and ownership of your experiences.
• Vagueness: Provide specific examples and metrics to substantiate your claims.
• Inventing Facts: Stick to your genuine experiences and avoid embellishing details.