How to Write Your Essay for the Jeremiah B. Galvin Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider significant experiences that have influenced your educational and career path. What challenges have you faced, and how have they shaped your perspective?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that showcase your skills and dedication. Use specific metrics or outcomes to highlight your contributions.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you lack in your current situation and how further study at Loyola University Chicago will bridge that gap. Be honest about your needs and articulate your goals clearly.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique? How do your experiences inform your aspirations?

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your thoughts, create an outline to organize your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or experience. Follow with body paragraphs that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows into the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the impact the scholarship will have on your journey.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice that reflects your engagement with your experiences. Avoid vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, supported by specific details. Use transitions to ensure that your essay reads smoothly and logically.

Revision and “So What?” Reflection

After drafting your essay, take a step back and revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. What does this experience reveal about you? Why does it matter to the scholarship committee? Ensure that each section contributes to a cohesive narrative that demonstrates your readiness for the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls that can weaken your essay. Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value. Ensure that your writing is free of passive voice and bureaucratic language. Lastly, do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key to connecting with the committee.