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How to Craft Your Essay for the Berwyn/Cicero Nurses CTC Scholarship
By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer
Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 26, 2026
ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.
Understanding the Prompt
Before you begin drafting your essay, take time to analyze the scholarship prompt carefully. Focus on what the selection committee is looking for in candidates. Consider how your educational goals align with the values of the Berwyn/Cicero Nurses CTC Scholarship, particularly in relation to your commitment to nursing and community service.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
Organize your thoughts by reflecting on the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.
- Background: Identify experiences that have shaped your desire to pursue nursing. Think about family influences, personal challenges, or significant moments that sparked your interest in healthcare.
- Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use metrics and outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as volunteer hours, leadership roles, or relevant coursework.
- The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you address. Be specific about how further study at Loyola University Chicago will bridge this gap and enhance your nursing career.
- Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, character, and motivations. This humanizing detail can help the committee connect with you on a deeper level.
Outlining Your Essay
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Once you have gathered your materials, create an outline that organizes your thoughts logically. Each section of your essay should focus on one main idea, moving from your background to your achievements, then to the gap, and finally to your personality. This structure will help you maintain clarity and coherence throughout your writing.
Drafting with Purpose
As you draft your essay, aim for an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Consider starting with a specific moment or experience that illustrates your passion for nursing. Throughout your essay, reflect on how each experience has shaped your commitment to the field and the community.
When discussing your achievements, use concrete examples and quantify your impact where possible. Avoid vague statements about your passion; instead, focus on specific actions you've taken and their results.
Revision and the “So What?” Factor
After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. During revision, ask yourself, “So what?” for each major section. Ensure that your reflections clearly articulate why your experiences matter and how they prepare you for the challenges of nursing. This reflective process will strengthen your narrative and provide the committee with a compelling reason to support your application.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of common pitfalls that can weaken your essay:
- Avoid cliché openers and vague claims about passion without evidence.
- Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to emphasize your role in your achievements.
- Do not include invented facts or embellishments about your experiences.
- Ensure each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.
FAQ
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