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How to Write Your Essay for the Business Student Lift Award

By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer

Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 25, 2026

ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.

Understanding the Prompt

Before you begin writing, take time to analyze the scholarship prompt. The Business Student Lift Award aims to support students at Loyola University Chicago. Consider what this means for your educational journey and how you can articulate your aspirations clearly and compellingly.

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a rich and engaging essay, gather material across four key areas:

  • Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your desire to pursue business studies? Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
  • Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and potential. Include metrics or specific outcomes where possible, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
  • The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your educational journey. Why is further study at Loyola important for you? Articulate how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
  • Personality: Humanize your narrative. Share anecdotes that showcase your values, interests, and motivations. Specific details will help the committee connect with you as an individual.

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Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Follow with sections that address each of the four material buckets. Ensure that each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be clear and active. Avoid passive constructions and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I was involved in a project,” write, “I led a project that resulted in a 20% increase in efficiency.” Use specific details to illustrate your points and maintain a reflective tone that answers the question, “So what?” after each major section.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. This will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Focus on clarity, coherence, and the emotional impact of your narrative. Ensure that each paragraph connects back to your main theme and answers the “So what?” question, emphasizing the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

  • Avoid clichés and generic statements. Your essay should reflect your unique voice and experiences.
  • Do not invent facts or embellish your achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship applications.
  • Steer clear of overly complex language. Clarity is more important than sounding impressive.

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FAQ

What is the Business Student Lift Award?
The Business Student Lift Award is a scholarship offered by Loyola University Chicago aimed at supporting students with their educational costs.
How can I make my essay stand out?
Focus on specific achievements and personal stories that reflect your unique journey. Use concrete examples and metrics to illustrate your impact.
What should I avoid in my essay?
Avoid clichés, vague statements, and embellishing your experiences. Ensure your writing is clear and authentic.

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