← Back to Scholarship Essay Guides

How to Craft Your Essay for the Mullins and Lenfesty Scholarship

By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer

Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 20, 2026

ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.

Understanding the Prompt

Before you begin drafting your essay, take time to thoroughly understand the scholarship prompt. This scholarship is geared towards students attending Loyola University Chicago, so your essay should reflect your connection to the university and how it aligns with your academic and athletic goals. Consider what the scholarship committee values in candidates and how you can demonstrate those qualities through your experiences.

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by focusing on the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

  • Background: Reflect on your journey in track and field. What experiences have shaped your passion for the sport? Consider specific moments that influenced your commitment.
  • Achievements: List your accomplishments in track and field. Include metrics such as times, rankings, or leadership roles. Be specific about your responsibilities and the outcomes of your efforts.
  • The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. What skills or knowledge do you hope to gain from further study at Loyola? Explain why this scholarship is essential for your educational journey.
  • Personality: Share personal anecdotes that highlight your values, resilience, and character. What makes you unique as an athlete and a student?

Match workspace

Find scholarships that fit your profile

Find My Scholarships

Creating an Outline

With your material gathered, create an outline to organize your essay logically. Start with a strong opening that captures attention—consider a specific moment from your athletic career that illustrates your dedication. Follow with sections addressing each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will impact your future.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice and concrete details to bring your experiences to life. Avoid vague statements; instead, show your passion through specific examples. Each paragraph should flow logically to the next, maintaining a clear narrative that showcases your journey and aspirations.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself: “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained, and why do they matter to the scholarship committee? Ensure that your reflections are clear and demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact in your field.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

  • Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on your unique experiences.
  • Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role in your achievements.
  • Do not fabricate details or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is key.

Sources

FAQ

What should I focus on in my essay?
Your essay should focus on your background in track and field, your achievements, the gap in your current skills or knowledge, and your unique personality traits. Make sure to connect these elements to your aspirations at Loyola University Chicago.
How can I make my essay stand out?
To make your essay stand out, use specific examples and anecdotes that illustrate your journey and commitment to track and field. Show how your experiences have shaped you and why you are a deserving candidate for the scholarship.
What is the best way to start my essay?
Begin your essay with a concrete moment or scene from your athletic career that captures your dedication. This engaging opening will draw in the reader and set the tone for the rest of your essay.

Related articles

Related scholarships

Browse the full scholarship catalog — filter by deadline, category, and more.