Crafting Your Essay for the Fr. Doug Lorig Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider your upbringing, cultural experiences, and influences that have shaped your perspective on pastoral ministry.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to multiculturalism and ministry. Use metrics and outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn or experience to enhance your pastoral skills. Clearly articulate why further study at Loyola University Chicago is essential for your growth.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and unique traits. This humanizes your application and connects you to the committee.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Use your background to set the scene, followed by your achievements and the gap you aim to fill through this scholarship. Conclude with your personality, emphasizing your commitment to making a difference in multicultural pastoral ministry.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on specific actions and outcomes. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate, demonstrate your passion through detailed examples. Each paragraph should focus on one idea and transition smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear narrative flow.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay to ensure clarity and coherence. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. What insights have you gained, and why do they matter? This reflection will help deepen your narrative and strengthen your argument for why you deserve the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes such as:

• Using vague language or superlatives without evidence.
• Falling into passive voice where an active subject exists.
• Including irrelevant details that do not support your main argument.

Stay focused on your unique journey and how it aligns with the scholarship's mission.