How to Write Your Essay for the Gannon Scholars Leadership Program

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your values and aspirations? Consider family influences, educational opportunities, and community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your contributions. For example, if you led a project, mention the results and impact.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge that this scholarship will help you address. Why is further study at Loyola University Chicago essential for your growth?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your character. What are your core values? How do you approach challenges? Specific anecdotes can make your narrative relatable and memorable.

Creating Your Outline

Your outline should reflect a logical flow of ideas. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Follow with sections that explore each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong statement about your future goals and how this scholarship will help you achieve them.

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 topic, illustrate your passion through concrete examples. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supported by evidence from your experiences. Remember to reflect on what these experiences taught you and why they matter.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself: does each section answer the “So what?” question? Ensure that your reflections connect your past experiences to your future aspirations. Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers to gain different perspectives on your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements that do not engage the reader.
• Do not rely on vague language; specificity adds credibility to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in your achievements.
• Do not fabricate experiences or details; authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.