Crafting Your Essay for the Harold A. Siegan Law Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your interest in law. Consider pivotal moments, influential figures, or challenges you’ve faced.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments related to your academic and professional journey. Include metrics, roles, and outcomes to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that further study at Loyola can provide. This could be specific skills, knowledge, or experiences that will enhance your legal career.
• Personality: Share personal details that humanize your application. Highlight values, motivations, and unique perspectives that distinguish you from other candidates.

Outline Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that logically flows from one section to the next. Start with a compelling introduction that hooks the reader with a specific moment or insight. Follow with sections that delve into your background, achievements, the gap, and personality, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are “passionate about law,” illustrate this passion with concrete examples. For instance, describe a moment when you advocated for a cause or resolved a conflict, showcasing your commitment and skills.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and evaluate your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph reflects not just what you did, but why it matters. Consider how your experiences and aspirations align with the goals of the Harold A. Siegan Law Scholarship. Revise for clarity, coherence, and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid common mistakes that can undermine your essay. Steer clear of generic statements and superlatives that lack evidence. Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists. Lastly, ensure that you do not fabricate details about your experiences or achievements. Authenticity is key to a compelling narrative.