How to Write Your Essay for the Gilbert W. Gordon Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, explore the following four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family, community, or cultural factors.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your education or experiences that this scholarship could help you address. Articulate clearly why further study at Loyola is essential for your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your commitment to your goals and how you engage with your community.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. A potential structure could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or experience that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section transitions smoothly to the next. Use the STAR method to describe achievements and challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will empower you to achieve your goals and contribute to the Loyola community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, illustrate that passion with specific examples. Engage the reader by sharing insights about your growth and the lessons learned from your experiences.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise with a focus on the “So what?” question. Each paragraph should not only present information but also reflect on its significance. Ensure that your essay articulates how your experiences and aspirations align with the scholarship's goals.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements and clichés that do not add value.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to highlight your agency.
• Ensure your essay has a clear focus and logical flow, with each section building on the last.