How to Craft an Essay for the Patricia Delsing Wees Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider what experiences have shaped your academic and personal life. Think about significant moments that have influenced your decisions and aspirations.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Quantify your achievements where possible—include metrics, leadership roles, and specific outcomes.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to achieve your goals. Discuss how further study at Loyola University Chicago will help bridge this gap and enhance your future contributions.
• Personality: Share unique aspects of yourself that illustrate your values and motivations. Use specific anecdotes to humanize your narrative and connect with the committee.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered material from the four buckets, create an outline to structure your essay. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Organize paragraphs around the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, focus on concrete details that showcase your experiences and insights. Each paragraph should clearly convey a single idea and transition smoothly to the next, maintaining logical progression throughout the essay.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph reflects not only what you have done but also why it matters in the context of your future goals and the scholarship's mission. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you write and revise, keep an eye out for these common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value.
• Steer clear of empty superlatives; focus on specific accomplishments instead.
• Do not use passive voice when you can express actions actively.
• Ensure all facts and experiences you share are accurate and verifiable.