When asked to write a personal essay, I can already hear you groan. So many teachers give so many rules, but the heart of every effective personal essay is to remember: Your life is a story. You are the main character. So ...what's it all about?
The late Frank McCourt used to teach English & creative writing in New York public schools. He sometimes asked students what they had for breakfast. A surprising number of them couldn't remember. These are the details of your lives, he would tell them. You must remember them. Wise words.
If you don't remember your own life, how will you be able to create a life for the characters in your writing?
If you don't remember what you've done, how can you be clear on your point of view? If you don't know your point of view, how will anyone else? Your experiences shape your life. Your past has brought you to this day. Today, you will travel further on your journey which means you will take steps - or not - based on what you've learned from your past.
What was the moment in your life when you faced your greatest challenge? Was it an emotional challenge or a physical one? Why was it a challenge? Did you succeed or fail? How did it make you change?
What do you fear most? Write it down.
What do you dream of? Tell us about it.
There is life in your life. The key is to start writing it down. Now. Go for it.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Monday, May 24, 2010
All Essays Are Not the Same
Need help with SAT Essay preparation?
Studies have shown that College Admissions Departments consider success on the SAT Essay section as the best indicator of a student’s readiness for college. In 25 minutes, students must express a personal point of view supported by reasoning and examples from reading, experience and observations. This essay must be completed with maximum impact and minimal mistakes.
Write a compelling college application and admission essay.
Each year, the top universities and colleges accept only 10% of their highly qualified applicants. Application essays must be carefully crafted with strong vocabulary, varied sentence structure and correct grammar. They must also convey a distinctive personal voice. An effective essay is a student’s best opportunity to highlight accomplishments, experiences and true potential. It is the personal tool that distinguishes one student from thousands of applicants with similar scores and backgrounds.
Tutors911 can help you strengthen your Creative Writing skills.
Will Chandler, Program Director of the Young American Writers Project and a faculty member of the MFA Writing and Literature Program at Stony Brook Southampton, is an award-winning writer who helps students to strengthen their writing skills. He tutors one-on-one or in small groups and is fluent in all genres of creative writing, with a focus on SAT essay prep and college entrance essays. He helps students to develop writing skills and explore their creativity.
For information on our tutoring services, email: tutors911services@gmail.com.
Studies have shown that College Admissions Departments consider success on the SAT Essay section as the best indicator of a student’s readiness for college. In 25 minutes, students must express a personal point of view supported by reasoning and examples from reading, experience and observations. This essay must be completed with maximum impact and minimal mistakes.
Write a compelling college application and admission essay.
Each year, the top universities and colleges accept only 10% of their highly qualified applicants. Application essays must be carefully crafted with strong vocabulary, varied sentence structure and correct grammar. They must also convey a distinctive personal voice. An effective essay is a student’s best opportunity to highlight accomplishments, experiences and true potential. It is the personal tool that distinguishes one student from thousands of applicants with similar scores and backgrounds.
Tutors911 can help you strengthen your Creative Writing skills.
Will Chandler, Program Director of the Young American Writers Project and a faculty member of the MFA Writing and Literature Program at Stony Brook Southampton, is an award-winning writer who helps students to strengthen their writing skills. He tutors one-on-one or in small groups and is fluent in all genres of creative writing, with a focus on SAT essay prep and college entrance essays. He helps students to develop writing skills and explore their creativity.
For information on our tutoring services, email: tutors911services@gmail.com.
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