How to Craft Your Essay for the Janice Butler Bart Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider significant events or influences that led you to pursue your studies at Loyola.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use specific metrics or examples to highlight your impact in academic, extracurricular, or community settings.
• The Gap: Clarify what you hope to gain from further study at Loyola. Discuss any limitations in your current knowledge or skills and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal stories or anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This is your opportunity to connect on a human level with the scholarship committee.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help ensure your essay flows logically. Start with an engaging introduction that presents a specific moment or experience that captures your motivation. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to making a positive impact through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, focus on concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, with smooth transitions to guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review it critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Does your essay clearly communicate why you deserve this scholarship and how it aligns with your goals? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives and refine your writing further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid clichés and overused phrases that dilute your message.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and typos, as these can detract from your credibility.