← Back to Scholarship Essay Guides
How to Craft Your Essay for the Margaret and Doug Lee Scholarship
By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer
Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 25, 2026 · Updated 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, it’s essential to fully understand the scholarship prompt. The Margaret and Doug Lee Endowed Scholarship aims to support students at Stetson University, so your essay should reflect how your educational goals align with the values of this scholarship. Consider what aspects of your academic journey and future aspirations resonate with the mission of Stetson University.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from four key areas:
- Background: Reflect on your personal history, experiences, and influences that have shaped who you are today. Consider family, community, and educational experiences that have impacted your journey.
- Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments in academics, leadership, or community service. Use metrics and outcomes to illustrate your contributions, such as grades, awards, or projects that demonstrate your impact.
- The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your experience or education that this scholarship will help you address. Explain how further study at Stetson University will bridge these gaps and enable you to achieve your goals.
- Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes and values. What makes you unique? Share experiences that reveal your character and commitment to making a difference.
Match workspace
Find scholarships that fit your profile
Creating an Outline
Your outline should structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in, possibly by opening with a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections that address each of the four material buckets, ensuring that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the scholarship’s mission.
Drafting Voice and Style
As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on specific details. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Each paragraph should center around one idea, clearly illustrating your points with concrete examples. Use reflective language to convey what you learned from your experiences and why these lessons matter.
Revision and the “So What?” Factor
After completing your draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Ensure that your reflections connect back to the scholarship’s goals and your aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay:
- Avoid opening with generic statements or clichés.
- Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is crucial.
- Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language.
- Ensure clarity and coherence in your writing—each paragraph should support your overall narrative.
FAQ
What is the deadline for the Margaret and Doug Lee Endowed Scholarship?
How can I make my essay stand out?
What should I include in the achievements section?
Related articles
Related scholarships
Browse the full scholarship catalog — filter by deadline, category, and more.
- NEW
foundation Scholarships for International Students
Business Management and Marketing students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of 50% tuition fee waiver and a Feb 2 deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.
Best for: Business Management and Marketing students50% tuition fee waiver
Award Amount
Feb 2
Feb 2
50% tuition fee waiver
Award Amount
- Fellows are placed at one of the participating USA universities . Fellows are not able to choose which university they will attend. Rather, they are assigned in diverse groups of 7-15 to the most appropriate host institution based on their area of interest and professional field. Level/Field of study: As a non-degree program, the Fellowship offers valuable opportunities for professional development through selected university courses, attending conferences, networking, and practical work experiences. The eligible program fields are: • Agricultural and Rural Development • Communications/Journalism • Economic Development • Educational Administration, Planning and Policy • Finance and Banking • Higher Education Administration • HIV/AIDS Policy and Prevention • Human Resource Management • Law and Human Rights • Natural Resources, Environmental Policy, and Climate Change • Public Health Policy and Management • Public Policy Analysis and Public Administration • Substance Abuse Education, Treatment and Prevention • Teaching of English as a Foreign Language • Technology Policy and Management • Trafficking in Persons Policy and Prevention • Urban and Regional Planning Number of Awards: Approximately 200 Fellowships are awarded annually.VerifiedNEW
Hubert Humphrey in USA for International Students
Agriculture and Related Sciences students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of Amount Varies and a Oct 1 deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.
Best for: Agriculture and Related Sciences studentsRecurringAmount Varies
Award Amount
Paid to school
Oct 1
Annual deadline
Oct 1
Annual deadline
Amount Varies
Award Amount
Paid to school
- Andrew W. Mellon FoundationVerifiedEXPIRED
W. Mellon Foundation Turning the Tide Masters Scholarship
Area Ethnic Cultural and Gender Studies students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of R170 000 total for two ye… and a 10.31.24 deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.
Best for: Area Ethnic Cultural and Gender Studies studentsR170 000 total for two ye…
Award Amount
Paid to school
10.31.24
deadline passed
10.31.24
deadline passed
R170 000 total for two ye…
Award Amount
Paid to school