How to Craft Your Essay for the Schreiber Arrupe Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, educational journey, and any formative experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. What personal or cultural factors have influenced your path?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic, extracurricular, or community service activities. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your contributions and responsibilities.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge that further study at Loyola University Chicago can help you address. Why is this scholarship essential for your educational journey?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character. What values drive you? How do you engage with others in your community?

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered material, organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, perhaps through a specific moment or experience. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to making an impact through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice that emphasizes your role in your achievements and experiences. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, be specific about your actions and their outcomes. Use reflective language to articulate what you learned from each experience and why it matters for your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point you make. Ensure that every section of your essay answers this question, demonstrating the significance of your experiences and aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls when writing your scholarship essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Open with a specific moment that captures your reader's attention.
• Steer clear of vague language. Use concrete details and metrics to support your claims.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences. Authenticity is crucial; be honest about your journey.
• Ensure your essay flows logically, with clear transitions between paragraphs.