College Essay Samples

Click on the following link and read 3 sample essays. Which was the best one and why? From the Do's and Don'ts list, what did the student do well or not so well?

http://www.teenink.com/college_guide/college_essays/

College: Getting Started

So, you want to go to college? Where do you start? Okay, if you have no idea where to even begin, here are pretty cool websites that can narrow down your choices.

https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search

http://www.collegecalc.org/colleges/california/private/

The new Scholar's Club will meet at lunch time on A Days to begin the Private School application process. Please list the private schools you are interested in.

"Two of a Kind"

Find a quote or short passage that you found interesting. Explain the quote. Then describe your childhood aspirations- what did you want to be when you were younger (a firefighter, a doctor, a teenage mutant ninja turtle)? What are your dreams/aspirations now (e.g. to help others, to be a social worker, to find the meaning of life, etc.) ?

Joy Luck Club

After reading "Scar" and "The Voice," choose one scene, character, or quote that made in impression on you. Then explain why you found it interesting. Briefly share how you relate to this story (for example- who has had a big influence in your life? do you have any memorable scars? do you remember your childhood neighborhood? 

Why Blog?

According to Sweetland Center for Writing, "Blogging can improve students’ writing skills and build their confidence as writers. By blogging, students can take ownership of their writing, become better observers of others’ writing, and develop a more immediate and powerful understanding of audience. Blogs encourage experimenting and risk-taking, seriousness and play, and they foster an increased awareness of private and public writing."

So what does this mean? It means that I want you to use your own voice and style. I want you to feel free to write your opinions without worrying about grammar or punctuation (for now). Later, as we progress, your writing will evolve as we take on deeper subjects. Try to write at least a few sentences. You might want to respond to what another student posted-please do so respectfully. As always, keep all conversations focused on the task and use appropriate language. Avoid symbols or acronyms that are unfamiliar to me. Have fun blogging.

Always Running

There are many cultural stereotypes and expectations in both Amy Tan's The Joy Luck Club and in Luis Rodriguez' Always Running. Choose 1 stereotype or expectation from one of these works and explain how the character either conforms or defies the trait. Can you relate to any of these characters? Explain