Writing The College Application Essay (Page 6 of 9) in pdf

Having barely made it through my first weekend at the restaurant, I was amazed at how

relieved I felt to return to the familiarity of physics class. We were starting a new chapter

on fiber optics. Moving through the material with greater ease than I had anticipated, we

hit upon the topic of optical time domain reflectometers, and sweat began to form on my

chest as I frantically flipped through my notebook. I marked my paper with an asterisk so

that I would know to ask my teacher to explain this material when I met with him

privately during my next free period. My teacher then said, “So, I’m sure you all

understand OTDR, so let’s move on.” As all of my peers nodded in agreement, I

suddenly realized that I was still not asking how to make cappuccino. I took a deep breath

and the fear of not learning overcame my usual fear of looking foolish and I raised my

hand. After my question had been answered, I felt like the Red Sox lifting the curse. I

erased the star I had made on my notebook and confidently listened as we moved on to

the next topic.

I’m not suggesting that raising my hand and asking a question in physics class was a life-

changing moment. It did not suddenly rid me of my fear of showing ignorance, but it

definitely marked a new willingness to ask questions. When I returned to Gino’s the next

weekend, I continued to spend some time unnecessarily cleaning silverware, but after

asking Maurizio how to use the espresso machine, I soon added making cappuccino to

my list of life skills. (788 words)

Some schools have their own special topics, and many schools accept the Common Application.

If you haven’t seen the new Common Application prompts, here’s what they look like:

•

Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they

believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then

please share your story.

•

Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and

what lessons did you learn? (See sample Essay 3)

•

Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act?

Would you make the same decision again?

•

Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or

experience there, and why is it meaningful to you?

•

Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition

from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.

Usually you will have the option of choosing your topic.

SAMPLE ESSAY #3 The Unathletic Department (Source: )

A blue seventh place athletic ribbon hangs from my mantel. Every day, as I walk into my

living room, the award mockingly congratulates me as I smile. Ironically, the blue

seventh place ribbon resembles the first place ribbon in color; so, if I just cover up the tip

From Alamance Community College’s Writing Center

Writing The College Application Essay Page 6