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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.

Sources

FAQ

What should I include in my essay for the Sharon O'Keefe Scholarship?
Your essay should include reflections on your background, key achievements, the educational gaps you aim to fill, and personal anecdotes that reveal your character. Focus on how these elements connect to your goals in nursing.
How can I make my essay stand out?
To make your essay stand out, use specific examples and metrics to illustrate your achievements. Engage the reader with a compelling opening scene and ensure that your personality shines through in your writing.
What is the deadline for the scholarship application?
The deadline to apply for the Sharon O'Keefe Scholarship is June 1, 2026. Be sure to plan your writing and revisions well ahead of this date to ensure a polished submission.

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