How to Write Your Essay for the Cannon Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Utilize the four material buckets to gather content for your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including your upbringing, education, and any pivotal moments that shaped your values and goals. Consider how these experiences have influenced your decision to pursue your studies at Loyola.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, both academically and personally. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your responsibilities and the outcomes of your efforts. This could include leadership roles, projects, or community service.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and why further study is essential for your growth. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Humanize your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. Specific details can make your narrative more relatable and memorable.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Aim for a clear introduction, body, and conclusion:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures the reader's attention. Avoid generic statements and instead, draw the reader into your story.
2. Body: Organize your paragraphs around the four buckets. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, using specific examples to support your claims. Ensure a logical flow from one paragraph to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you have learned throughout your journey and how this scholarship will enable you to contribute positively to your community or field. Answer the “So what?” question to emphasize the significance of your experiences.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and use precise language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead, focus on your unique voice and perspective. Be authentic and sincere in your writing, as this will resonate more with the committee. Aim for clarity and coherence in your sentences.

Revision and Reflection

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. During revision, look for areas where you can enhance clarity, coherence, and impact. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Reflect on how your essay answers the prompt and aligns with the scholarship's goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Do not include irrelevant information that does not directly support your narrative.
• Steer clear of vague assertions about passion or commitment without concrete examples.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable—do not invent details or experiences.