How to Craft Your Essay for the Parkinson SHSPH Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To develop a rich and compelling narrative, gather material across the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your interest in health innovation? Consider pivotal moments that influenced your career path.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments. Focus on metrics and outcomes that demonstrate your leadership and impact in health-related projects or initiatives.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship could help you address. Explain how further study at Loyola University Chicago fits into your career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and motivations. What drives you? What unique perspectives do you bring to the field?

Outline Your Essay Structure

Creating a clear outline will help organize your thoughts. Structure your essay with a logical flow:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements; instead, draw the reader in with a vivid snapshot.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to a specific idea. Use the STAR method to articulate your achievements and challenges, ensuring each section answers the question, “So what?”
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your growth and commitment to making an impact in health innovation. Reiterate how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Drafting with Clarity and Purpose

As you draft, focus on clarity and specificity. Use active voice and concrete details to illustrate your points. For example, rather than stating, “I led a project,” specify, “I led a team of five in developing a community health initiative that increased local vaccination rates by 30%.” Each statement should contribute to a coherent narrative about your qualifications and aspirations.

Revision and Reflection: The “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ensure that each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to your overall message. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. This reflection will help you refine your arguments and ensure they resonate with the scholarship committee.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of vague claims about your passion; provide evidence and examples instead.
• Do not use passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself or your team.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable; do not invent experiences or achievements.