How to Craft Your Essay for the Norman Amaker Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets to ensure a comprehensive essay:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your goals. Consider significant moments that have influenced your academic journey.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments, including awards, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your capabilities. Use metrics where possible to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or experiences and explain how further study at Loyola will bridge this gap. Be specific about your academic and career aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This is your opportunity to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Draft a clear outline based on your brainstormed ideas. Each section should have a distinct focus:

1. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in, perhaps with a vivid scene or a pivotal moment.
2. Follow with your background and achievements, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Discuss the gap and how Loyola University Chicago plays a crucial role in your future.
4. Conclude with a reflection on your journey and a commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and a confident tone. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supported by details that answer the “So what?” question.

Revision and Reflection

After completing your draft, take a step back. Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and emotional impact. Ask yourself how each section contributes to the overall narrative. Ensure that your reflections highlight growth and future aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate your achievements or fabricate experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role in your experiences.
• Ensure that every statement is backed by specific examples and metrics where applicable.