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How to Craft Your Essay for the Jack and Cece Hartman Scholarship
By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer
Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 26, 2026
ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.
Understanding the Prompt
Before you begin writing, take time to thoroughly understand the scholarship prompt. Identify what the scholarship committee values and how you can align your experiences and aspirations with those values. This scholarship is aimed at students attending Loyola University Chicago, so consider how your educational journey intersects with the university's mission and community.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
To structure your essay effectively, gather material across four key areas:
- Background: Reflect on your upbringing, key life experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational and career goals. Consider moments that ignited your passion for learning or community involvement.
- Achievements: List significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Include leadership roles, projects you initiated, or challenges you overcame. Use specific numbers or results to illustrate your impact.
- The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. Explain why further study at Loyola University Chicago is essential for you to bridge these gaps and achieve your future goals.
- Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reflect your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal your motivations and aspirations, making your narrative relatable and engaging.
Creating an Outline
Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Organize your ideas logically, ensuring each section flows into the next. A typical structure might include:
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- Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that captures attention.
- Background: Share your formative experiences and influences.
- Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments with specific examples.
- The Gap: Discuss what you aim to learn and how Loyola fits into that vision.
- Personality: End with a reflection on your values and future aspirations, connecting back to your introduction.
Drafting Voice and Style
As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid generic statements and clichés; instead, focus on genuine experiences that illustrate your journey. Each paragraph should center on one idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters.
Revision and the “So What?” Factor
After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity and coherence in your writing. Each section should answer the “So what?” question, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism. Ensure your final draft is polished, free of errors, and effectively communicates your unique story.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of these common mistakes:
- Avoid starting with clichés or vague statements about passion.
- Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
- Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
- Resist the urge to include excessive details that do not serve your narrative.
FAQ
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