How to Write Your Essay for the Reid Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key categories:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, educational experiences, and any pivotal moments that have shaped your identity. Think about how these experiences relate to your goals and aspirations.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics where applicable—such as leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours—to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey and how the Reid Endowed Scholarship can help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how further study at Stetson University will facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This is your opportunity to connect with the committee on a personal level.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help ensure your essay flows logically. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or a specific moment that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements and aim to engage the reader immediately.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one of the four buckets, with a clear topic sentence. Use the STAR method to describe your achievements and challenges, illustrating your growth and commitment.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations. Explain why the scholarship is crucial for you and how it will enable you to make a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice. Be specific in your language and avoid vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about helping others,” describe a specific instance where you made a difference. This will not only make your essay more engaging but also demonstrate your commitment through tangible examples.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, revisit each section and ask yourself, “So what?” Ensure that every paragraph contributes meaningfully to your overall narrative. Look for areas where you can add depth or clarity. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Using clichés or vague language that doesn’t add value to your narrative.
• Neglecting to proofread for grammatical errors or unclear phrasing.
• Failing to connect your experiences to the scholarship’s purpose.
• Overlooking the importance of a strong opening that draws in the reader.