How to Craft Your Essay for the Walter and Kathleen Ahern Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including family influences, cultural background, and significant experiences that have shaped your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in academics, extracurricular activities, or community service. Use metrics and specific outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education and how further study at Loyola will bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and career aspirations.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include personal anecdotes or values that showcase your character and commitment to making a difference.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and coherence. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or experience that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically into the next. Use the STAR method to detail achievements and challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your growth and how receiving this scholarship will enable you to contribute to the Loyola community and beyond.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write, maintain an active voice and focus on specific experiences. Avoid vague language and clichés. Each paragraph should convey a single idea and transition smoothly to the next, reinforcing your overall narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay to ensure it answers the “So what?” question. Reflect on how your experiences have shaped you and why they matter in the context of this scholarship. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or broad statements.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in achievements.
• Ensure your essay is free from bureaucratic language; keep it personal and engaging.