How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Rose Kennedy Law Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history and what has shaped your interest in law. Consider experiences, family influences, or pivotal moments that have directed you toward this field.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, particularly those relevant to law or leadership. Quantify your impact where possible, such as involvement in legal internships, volunteer work, or leadership roles in student organizations.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your experience or education that further study at Loyola University Chicago would address. Be specific about what you hope to learn and how it will enhance your career in law.
• Personality: Add humanizing details that reflect your values and character. What makes you unique? Consider anecdotes that illustrate your commitment to justice, advocacy, or community service.

Outline Your Essay Structure

With your material organized, create an outline that logically flows from one idea to the next. Start with a compelling opening that captures attention—consider an in-scene moment or a significant event. Follow with sections that explore your background, achievements, the gap, and personality, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea and transitions smoothly to the next.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and be specific. Avoid generic statements; instead, provide concrete examples and reflections on what you learned from your experiences. Each section should answer the “So what?” question, reflecting on how your experiences have shaped your aspirations in law.

Revision & “So What?” Reflection

After drafting, take time to revise. Look for clarity and coherence in your argument. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to a central narrative about your journey and ambitions. Ask yourself if your essay effectively communicates your motivations for pursuing law and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague language. Avoid starting with phrases like “From a young age” or “I have always been passionate about.” Instead, focus on specific experiences that illustrate your commitment. Additionally, steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic phrasing; your essay should reflect your voice and agency. Lastly, do not invent details or achievements; authenticity is crucial.