How to Craft Your Essay for the Galam Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, consider gathering material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal journey, including your upbringing, cultural influences, and significant life events that have shaped who you are today.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership, commitment, and impact. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your contributions.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in terms of skills or experiences and explain how further study at Loyola University Chicago will help you fill this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with humanizing details that reveal your values, interests, and aspirations. This is your opportunity to connect with the committee on a personal level.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your thoughts, create an outline that organizes your material logically. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in—consider starting with a specific moment or experience that encapsulates your journey. Each section should transition smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear narrative thread throughout.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, illustrate your passion with concrete examples. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on how your experiences have shaped your goals and why they matter.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism. Make sure you have addressed the “So what?” for each major point—this will strengthen your essay significantly.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

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

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Refrain from using superlatives without evidence; focus on specific achievements.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable—do not invent experiences or details.