How to Craft Your Essay for the Harper Family Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, consider the following four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, key experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational aspirations. Consider specific moments that highlight your journey.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Acknowledge areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain why further study at Loyola is essential for your development and how the scholarship will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and aspirations. This helps the committee connect with you on a human level.

Outline Your Essay

Craft a clear outline to organize your thoughts. Start with a compelling introduction that draws the reader in with a vivid scene or moment. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will empower you to achieve your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and general statements; instead, focus on detailed examples that showcase your journey. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supported by evidence from your experiences. Reflect on the significance of each experience and answer the “So what?” question to emphasize your growth and future impact.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay from the perspective of the committee and ensure it clearly communicates your story and aspirations. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflection and clarify your motivations. Make sure each section contributes to a cohesive narrative that answers the scholarship's purpose.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid vague language and superlatives—be specific about your achievements and experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in your accomplishments.
• Do not include fabricated facts or awards; authenticity is key.
• Refrain from using clichés in your opening; instead, start with a unique moment that captures your journey.