How to Craft Your Essay for the Serzen Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a rich and compelling essay, gather material across the four key buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider significant moments that influenced your academic and personal journey.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics and outcomes to quantify your impact, such as leadership roles, community service hours, or academic honors.
• The Gap: Acknowledge areas where you seek growth. Reflect on what you hope to gain from further study at Loyola University Chicago and how this scholarship will help bridge the gap between your current abilities and your aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Specific details about your interests, motivations, and challenges faced will humanize your narrative.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. Start with a strong introduction that draws the reader in with a vivid scene or moment. Follow with body paragraphs that explore each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and flows smoothly into the next. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will impact your future and your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice to convey confidence and clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific experiences that illustrate your points. Use a conversational yet professional tone that reflects your personality. Remember to show, not just tell—use descriptive language to create a vivid picture of your experiences.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does it convey your message effectively? Does it highlight your unique qualities? Seek feedback from mentors or peers who can provide constructive criticism. Focus on clarity, coherence, and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate your experiences or invent details; honesty is crucial.
• Steer clear of overly complex language or jargon that may confuse the reader.
• Ensure your essay remains focused on the scholarship prompt and does not veer off-topic.