← Back to Scholarship Essay Guides
How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Laura Terlizzi 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 drafting your essay for the Laura Terlizzi Endowed Scholarship, take time to thoroughly understand the prompt. Consider what the scholarship committee is looking for in a candidate. They are likely interested in your motivations for studying law, your commitment to the field, and how this scholarship will help you achieve your goals. Reflect on how your experiences align with these expectations.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:
- Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your interest in law. Consider family influences, educational opportunities, or significant events that sparked your passion.
- Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. This could include academic achievements, leadership roles, internships, or community service. Use metrics where possible, such as GPA, awards, or project outcomes.
- The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack and how further study at Loyola University Chicago will bridge this gap. Be specific about the skills or knowledge you wish to acquire and how they relate to your career aspirations.
- Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal who you are beyond your academic and professional achievements.
Creating an Outline
Match workspace
Find scholarships that fit your profile
Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a compelling moment from your life. Follow with body paragraphs that each focus on a single idea:
- Introduce your background and its relevance to your law career.
- Detail your key achievements and their impact.
- Discuss the gap in your education and how the scholarship will help.
- Conclude with reflections on your personality and how it shapes your future goals.
Drafting Voice and Style
As you draft your essay, use an active voice and maintain a confident yet reflective tone. Avoid clichés and ensure that each sentence adds value. Instead of stating your passion for law, illustrate it with specific examples that demonstrate your commitment and insight. Remember to answer the “So what?” for each section, explaining why your experiences matter.
Revision and “So What?”
After completing your draft, take time to revise. Look for clarity and coherence, ensuring that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Ask yourself if each section answers the prompt effectively and reflects your unique perspective. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of the following pitfalls:
- Avoid vague statements or generalized claims about your passion.
- Steer clear of passive voice; always identify the actor in your sentences.
- Do not include fabricated details or experiences; authenticity is key.
- Refrain from using overly complex language; clarity should be your priority.
FAQ
What should I focus on in my essay?
How can I make my essay stand out?
What are the key elements of a strong introduction?
Related articles
Related scholarships
Browse the full scholarship catalog — filter by deadline, category, and more.
- VerifiedNEW
Programmes in Germany
Education students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of Monthly payments of 1,400… and a Application deadlines are updated in the second quarter. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here: deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.
Best for: Education studentsRecurringMonthly payments of 1,400…
Award Amount
Paid to school
Application deadlines are updated in the second quarter. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here:
Annual deadline
Application deadlines are updated in the second quarter. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here:
Annual deadline
Monthly payments of 1,400…
Award Amount
Paid to school
EducationMedicineCommunitySafetyDisabilityInternational StudentsUndergraduateGraduatePhDVerifiedPaid to schoolGPA 2.0+GA - VerifiedNEW
Scholarships for Postgraduate Studies for Yemenis in Jordan
Business Management and Marketing students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of The scholarship covers: T… and a 08.31.26 deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.
Best for: Business Management and Marketing studentsRecurringThe scholarship covers: T…
Award Amount
Paid to school
08.31.26
50 days left
08.31.26
50 days left
The scholarship covers: T…
Award Amount
Paid to school
- VerifiedNEW
Scholarships - Postgraduate Studies in the Field of Music
Education students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of A monthly payment of 992 … and a Application deadlines are updated at least once a year. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here: deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.
Best for: Education studentsRecurringA monthly payment of 992 …
Award Amount
Direct to student
Application deadlines are updated at least once a year. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here:
Application deadlines are updated at least once a year. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here:
A monthly payment of 992 …
Award Amount
Direct to student
EducationSTEMMusicDisabilityInternational StudentsUndergraduateGraduatePhDVerifiedDirect to studentGPA 2.0+GA