September-October 2003

When I got home from the college fair, I was inspired to work on my applications and essays. I checked the requirements for each of the four colleges to which I am applying. The general idea of all of the essays was the same: “Explain why you want to pursue [major] and how you think [college] can fulfill your educational needs.” I was glad that I would be able to just write one essay, afterwards personalizing it for each school. I sat at the computer for no less than three hours trying to perfect my essay. I researched points of which I was unsure. I corrected the syntax of one sentence for ten minutes until I found the perfect arrangement of words. Finally I was happy with my essay. Then, I finished each piece with a personalized statement about why I wanted to attend the respective college.

Perhaps not to my credit, I did not let anyone read my essay. It was personal. I was afraid someone would not understand the point I was trying to get across and criticize my writing.

For a few days, I would just open my essay every time I got on the computer. I would proof read and make minor corrections. A couple weekends later, I collected all my applications. I made sure every blank was filled out. I used white out to ensure neatness when I made a mistake. All my essays were attached and my parents signed on the dotted lines. I then brought the applications into the guidance office. Several days later, after the teacher recommendation forms were turned in, the applications were finally put in the mail. What a huge weight off my shoulders!