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How to Craft Your Essay for the Sharon O'Keefe 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 start writing, take time to carefully read the scholarship prompt. Understand what the selection committee is looking for in terms of your educational goals, experiences, and aspirations. Consider how your background and future plans align with the values of Loyola University Chicago.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:
- Background: Reflect on your personal journey. What experiences have shaped your desire to pursue nursing? Consider family influences, significant life events, or challenges you've overcome.
- Achievements: Identify your key accomplishments. What metrics or outcomes can you share? This might include academic achievements, leadership roles, or community service that demonstrates your commitment to nursing.
- The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship would help you fill. Be specific about how attending Loyola University Chicago will bridge this gap and enhance your professional development.
- Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and character. This humanizing detail will help the committee connect with you on a deeper level.
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Outlining Your Essay
Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene with a specific moment from your life. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four material buckets. Ensure that each paragraph focuses on a single idea and transitions logically to the next.
Drafting Voice and Style
As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying, "I have always wanted to be a nurse," share a specific moment that sparked your interest in the field. Remember to answer the question, “So what?” in each section, reflecting on how your experiences have changed you and why they matter.
Revision and the “So What?” Factor
After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can clarify your thoughts or tighten your language. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative and that you consistently address the “So what?” factor. This reflection will strengthen your essay’s impact.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Using vague statements or clichés that do not provide insight into your character.
- Neglecting to show specific outcomes or metrics related to your achievements.
- Failing to connect your background and future goals with the scholarship’s mission.
- Writing in passive voice or using overly bureaucratic language that obscures your message.
FAQ
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