How to Craft Your Essay for the David L. Hartigan Law Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that influenced your decision to pursue law. Consider family, education, and any significant events that shaped your values.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments related to law or community service. Quantify your impact where possible, such as leadership roles, internships, or academic honors.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that further study at Loyola will help you address. Be specific about how this scholarship will facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Include personal anecdotes that humanize your application. Highlight your values, interests, and what makes you unique in your approach to law.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Consider beginning with a specific moment that illustrates your passion for law. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph transitions smoothly into the next. Conclude with a strong statement about your future aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples and details to support your claims. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, reflect on your experiences and insights. Aim for clarity and precision in your writing, ensuring that each sentence contributes to your overall narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself: What changed in me through these experiences, and why does it matter? Ensure that your essay answers this question in every major section. Look for areas where you can add depth or eliminate redundancy. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors who can provide an outside perspective.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements; instead, engage the reader with a specific moment or story.
• Stay away from overly complex language or jargon that may obscure your message.
• Do not exaggerate your achievements or fabricate experiences. Authenticity is key.
• Ensure your essay is well-structured with clear transitions between ideas.