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How to Write Your Essay for the College of Arts & Sciences Scholarship

By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer

Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 18, 2026 · Updated Apr 26, 2026

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

How to write a scholarship essay for How to Write Your Essay for the College of Arts & Sciences Scholarship — illustrative candid photo of students in a modern university or study environment

Understanding the Prompt

Before you begin writing, carefully read the scholarship prompt. Identify what the committee values in applicants. This scholarship likely seeks students who demonstrate academic promise, community involvement, and a clear vision for their future. Reflect on how your experiences align with these expectations.

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To effectively plan your essay, gather material across four key areas:

  • Background: Consider formative experiences that have shaped your academic and personal journey. Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any challenges you faced.
  • Achievements: List significant accomplishments, particularly those that demonstrate leadership, initiative, or impact. Use metrics where possible, such as “increased participation by 30%” or “led a team of five.”
  • The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth through further education. Explain why attending Loyola University Chicago is essential for your academic and career goals.
  • Personality: Include humanizing details that showcase your values and interests. This could be a hobby, a personal philosophy, or a unique perspective that contributes to your character.

Creating an Outline

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Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in through a specific moment or experience. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to making an impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and be specific. Avoid generic statements; instead, illustrate your points with concrete examples. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, supported by details from your experiences. Transition smoothly between sections to guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and reflect on the “So what?” of each section. Ask yourself what insights you gained from your experiences and how they shaped your aspirations. Revise to ensure clarity and impact, focusing on how your background, achievements, and goals align with the scholarship’s mission.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common mistakes:

  • Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you have always been passionate about something, provide a specific example that illustrates this passion.
  • Steer clear of passive voice. Use active constructions to convey your agency and involvement.
  • Do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
  • Refrain from using overly complex language. Aim for clarity and precision in your writing.

Sources

FAQ

What should I include in my scholarship essay?
Your scholarship essay should include your background, significant achievements, gaps in your experience that further education will address, and personal details that reflect your character. Make sure to connect these elements to your future goals.
How can I make my essay stand out?
To make your essay stand out, focus on specific and unique experiences that highlight your individuality. Use concrete examples and metrics to demonstrate your impact and reflect on what you learned from your experiences.
What is the best way to revise my essay?
After drafting your essay, take a break before revising. Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing and ensure clarity. Ask for feedback from trusted peers or mentors, and focus on answering the 'So what?' question for each section to enhance the essay's impact.

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