Crafting Your Essay for the Mark A. McIntosh Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, brainstorm material in four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have influenced your interest in the humanities. Consider specific moments or influences that sparked your passion.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular pursuits. Quantify your achievements when possible—mention projects, leadership roles, or contributions to community initiatives.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your academic journey. Be honest about the skills or knowledge you wish to gain through further study at Loyola University Chicago and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. Share stories that highlight your unique perspective and character.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Follow with body paragraphs that focus on each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and flows logically to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to the humanities and the impact of the scholarship on your future.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for a voice that is confident and reflective. Use active voice to convey your actions and thoughts clearly. Avoid clichés and vague statements—be specific about your experiences and insights. Remember to connect your personal journey to broader themes in the humanities, demonstrating your understanding of their importance in today’s world.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting your essay, take a break before revising. Read through your work critically, asking yourself what insights you offer and why they matter. Ensure that every section answers the “So what?” question, highlighting the significance of your experiences and aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives and refine your essay further.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls when writing your scholarship essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Instead, begin with a specific moment or insight that captures your journey.
• Don’t exaggerate achievements or invent experiences. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
• Steer clear of overly complex language or jargon. Clarity is key—make sure your message is accessible and impactful.
• Finally, ensure that your essay is well-structured, with each paragraph contributing to a cohesive narrative.