How to Write a Standout Essay for the UIC Business Excellence Awards Workshop

Interested in being recognized as a top student leader within UIC Business?
This workshop will guide you through how to craft a compelling and competitive essay for the UIC Business Excellence Awards, with a focus on the two student leadership categories:

• Student Leader of the Year
• Emerging Student Leader of the Year

• Break down the criteria for both awards, including what is expected in the application letter and the role of the optional letter of recommendation
• Review the official scoring rubrics used by reviewers when evaluating submissions
• Clarify what makes an application stand out, including structure, storytelling, clarity, and demonstrating leadership impact
• Provide practical strategies for answering the required questions—such as articulating leadership involvement, showcasing positive contributions to UIC Business, and reflecting on future leadership potential (for Emerging Student Leader of the Year)

By the end of the workshop, you’ll understand exactly what reviewers are looking for and how to present your experiences in a way that is clear, authentic, and aligned with award expectations.

Open to all UIC Business students.