How to Craft Your Essay for the Lester Family Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organizing your thoughts into four material buckets can help structure your essay effectively:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider significant moments that influenced your academic and personal journey.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic, extracurricular, or professional life. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate the impact of your contributions.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or limitations you face in pursuing your education. Explain why further study at Loyola University Chicago is essential for overcoming these obstacles and achieving your goals.
• Personality: Humanize your narrative by sharing details that reflect your values, interests, and unique qualities. This section should convey who you are beyond your achievements.

Creating an Outline

With your material organized, create an outline that flows logically. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, perhaps a specific moment from your background. Follow with sections on your achievements, the gap you aim to bridge through education, and insights into your personality. Ensure each section transitions smoothly into the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead of stating your enthusiasm for a subject, demonstrate it through concrete examples and reflections. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, contributing to the overall narrative arc of your essay.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Ensure that your reflections convey not only what you have done, but also what you have learned and how it shapes your future. Revisit your outline to ensure your essay remains aligned with your initial intentions.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements and clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and responsibilities.
• Do not fabricate experiences or embellish achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure clarity and specificity in your writing, providing concrete examples and metrics where applicable.