How to Craft Your Essay for the Ratner Endowment ROTC Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider formative experiences that shaped your desire to pursue education and service. What moments or influences led you to ROTC and Loyola University Chicago?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, particularly those related to leadership, academics, and community service. Quantify your achievements where possible, such as leadership roles held or projects completed.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your academic or professional journey. Identify how the Ratner Endowment ROTC Scholarship will help bridge this gap and enhance your contributions to the ROTC program.
• Personality: Think about personal traits or values that define you. What makes you unique? How do these qualities influence your approach to challenges and your commitment to your education and service?

Outline Your Essay Structure

Creating an outline will help organize your ideas logically. Each section should focus on one of the four buckets, guiding the reader through your narrative. A possible structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or a specific moment that encapsulates your motivation.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they relate to your goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using metrics to illustrate your impact.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to achieve through the scholarship and why it matters.
5. Personality: Share personal insights that demonstrate your character and commitment.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and your vision for the future, tying back to the scholarship's mission.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific details and reflections that reveal your character. Each paragraph should present a clear idea and transition smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow throughout the essay.

Revision and “So What?” Reflection

After completing your draft, take a step back and evaluate your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections demonstrate how your experiences have shaped your aspirations and how the scholarship will facilitate your journey. Look for areas where you can deepen your insights or clarify your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate achievements or fabricate details; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; keep your writing dynamic and engaging.
• Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.