How to Write an Essay for the Stander Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your academic and personal journey. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your goals?
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic career, extracurricular activities, or community service. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you address. Be specific about how further study at Loyola will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Highlight aspects of your character that make you unique. What values drive you? How do you engage with your community?

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you maintain focus. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Organize the body of your essay by addressing each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph has a clear main idea. Conclude with a strong reflection that ties back to your introduction and emphasizes your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I am passionate about education,” provide a concrete example of how you have demonstrated that passion. Use reflective language to convey what you have learned from your experiences and why they matter in the context of your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also highlights your potential contributions to the Loyola community and beyond. Look for opportunities to enhance clarity, tighten your arguments, and improve transitions between paragraphs.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls when writing your scholarship essay:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Refrain from using passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish your achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure that your essay stays focused on the scholarship’s goals and your fit for it.