← Back to Scholarship Essay Guides

Crafting Your Essay for the Lorri and Gary Reddick Scholarship

By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer

Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 26, 2026

ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.

Understanding the Prompt

Before you begin drafting your essay, take time to understand the scholarship's purpose and what the committee values. The Lorri and Gary Reddick Endowed Business Scholarship aims to support students pursuing business education at Stetson University. Think about how your goals align with this mission and what unique perspectives you can bring.

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

  • Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your interest in business. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
  • Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in academics, extracurricular activities, or work experiences. Use metrics and specific outcomes to illustrate your impact.
  • The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your experience or knowledge that further education will help you address. Explain why this scholarship is essential for your growth.
  • Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This is your chance to humanize your application and connect with the committee.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay with a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or shares a defining moment. Follow with sections for each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to making a difference in the business field.

Match workspace

Find scholarships that fit your profile

Find My Scholarships

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about business, illustrate this with a story or example that demonstrates your enthusiasm. Keep your tone reflective and forward-looking, focusing on how your experiences have prepared you for future challenges.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay with the “So what?” question in mind. For each paragraph, ask yourself what insight or impact you are conveying. Ensure that your reflections on experiences are meaningful and connect back to your goals and the scholarship's mission. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors to refine your message further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

  • Avoid generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
  • Do not invent experiences or exaggerate achievements; authenticity is crucial.
  • Steer clear of overly complex language or jargon that may obscure your message.
  • Ensure that each section of your essay contributes to a cohesive narrative that aligns with the scholarship's goals.

FAQ

What is the Lorri and Gary Reddick Endowed Business Scholarship?
This scholarship is designed to assist students attending Stetson University, specifically those pursuing a degree in business. The amount awarded varies, and the application deadline is December 31, 2026.
How can I make my essay stand out?
To stand out, focus on specific experiences and achievements that demonstrate your unique perspective and commitment to the business field. Use vivid anecdotes and reflect on how these experiences have shaped your goals.
What should I include in my scholarship essay?
Include information about your background, significant achievements, any gaps in your experience that further study will address, and personal insights that reveal your character and motivations.

Related articles

Related scholarships

Browse the full scholarship catalog — filter by deadline, category, and more.