Dr Aminta Rota Vis Moot Fellowship Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including formative experiences, education, and influences. What motivated you to pursue your field of study?
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, such as academic honors, leadership roles, and community service. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that the fellowship will help you address. Explain how further study at Loyola will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reflect your values, interests, and unique perspective. What drives you? What are your passions outside of academia?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. Each section should flow logically, leading the reader through your narrative. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that captures the reader's attention.
2. Background: Provide context about your journey and motivations.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Discuss the need for further education and how the fellowship will help.
5. Personality: Offer insights into your character and values.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your experiences and actions. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about,” illustrate your passion with specific examples. Use clear and concise language to convey your thoughts. Each paragraph should center on a single idea, ensuring a smooth transition between sections.

Revision and Reflection: The “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights or reflections have you provided that demonstrate your growth and potential? Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also reflects on the significance of your experiences and how they shape your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of overly ambitious claims without supporting evidence.
• Do not include fabricated details about your experiences or achievements.
• Ensure that your essay remains focused and does not stray from the main themes.