essay on your experience in life

Writing About Personal Experiences

Table of contents, introduction, what does it mean to write about personal experiences.

It involves not just recounting events but infusing your narrative with the richness of your personal journey, allowing readers to get a glimpse of your life.

What Does It Involve to Write About Your Personal Experiences?

Writing about your personal experiences involves the following:

Structure of an Essay about Your Personal Experiences

The process of writing about personal experiences, 1. preparation:.

b. Selecting a Personal Experience:

2. Drafting:

c. Climax or Turning Point:

3. Revising, Editing, and Final Draft:

General tips for writing the perfect narrative of your personal experience, topics about personal experience narrative, sample personal experience narrative.

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Bachelor’s degrees to hold most good jobs by 2031, georgetown report shows, how to make a cover page for an essay, the summer i turned pretty summary, how to shorten an essay, education department wants to police online education more control over remote learning is coming, narrative essay sample: the most memorable experience in my life.

Since I am a high school student, somebody might say I have my entire life ahead of me, with all of its beautiful experiences. But despite being so young, I already have a personal breathtaking experience, which I am sure I will carry with me until my last days: my first hike to the mountains.

Though traveling is not a big deal for me today, before my trip to the mountains, I used to be a homebody. I had friends to hang out with, several hobbies, and I felt completely comfortable spending weeks or even months in my hometown—or sometimes even on my block—without going anywhere. All my demands of novelty were satisfied by the Discovery and National Geographic channels, and I seriously thought there was no difference between seeing something on the TV or with one’s own eyes.

The situation changed when one day David, my best pal who always has a couple of colorful bugs in his head (or, in other words, was always carrying out several crazy plans at once) tumbled into my room and proclaimed his disgust for civilization. I will not describe how he managed to persuade me to join him on his journey to the Rocky Mountains; all I will say is we departed in five days. This was my first time in the mountains, so I was turning my head in all directions. Unfortunately, the weather was foggy most the time, and the higher we got into the mountains, the worse the visibility was.

Even despite this fact, I still enjoyed the hike—I felt like I was Bear Grylls , whose show I used to watch with excitement: in the wild, with food and water in my backpack, carrying a flashlight and a knife. On the first day, we were making our way along the foothills; but the next day, we started to climb on one of the peaks. Though it was not that steep and high, I was still excited. I regularly hastened, and because of that, I ran out of energy long before we got to the top; David, on the other hand was more well-paced.

When we finally got to the top, nothing had changed. The same fog was covering the surroundings, and even though I was teeming with positive emotions, I felt disappointed, because I counted on seeing the view from above and perhaps being able to take some photos. We spent a couple of hours on the top, and decided to turn back, when the wind suddenly dispersed the clouds, and the plateau we were standing on became illuminated with the sun. I saw a fantastic panorama in front of me, and for some moments, I couldn’t believe my eyes .

Seeing all those mountain ridges, cliffs, and edges on my own, not on TV, was like a revelation for me. The strong wind blew right into my face, and I stood there and watched shreds of fog gliding over the ground far beneath me. At that moment, I realized that I won’t be able to live a life without visiting the mountains at least a few times a year. The next day we returned—my legs started to hurt so bad that I could hardly walk. But every time as my face wrinkled because of an ache, I remembered the feeling of being high above, with my head touching the skies and the clouds swimming below.

This is just one of the thousand variants of how to write a descriptive essay. Online paper writing service reviews show that there are even better ways to approach these types of papers. You can find the one that suits you the best if you give it a little thought.

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How to Write a Life Story Essay

Last Updated: April 14, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alicia Cook . Alicia Cook is a Professional Writer based in Newark, New Jersey. With over 12 years of experience, Alicia specializes in poetry and uses her platform to advocate for families affected by addiction and to fight for breaking the stigma against addiction and mental illness. She holds a BA in English and Journalism from Georgian Court University and an MBA from Saint Peter’s University. Alicia is a bestselling poet with Andrews McMeel Publishing and her work has been featured in numerous media outlets including the NY Post, CNN, USA Today, the HuffPost, the LA Times, American Songwriter Magazine, and Bustle. She was named by Teen Vogue as one of the 10 social media poets to know and her poetry mixtape, “Stuff I’ve Been Feeling Lately” was a finalist in the 2016 Goodreads Choice Awards. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 103,471 times.

A life story essay involves telling the story of your life in a short, nonfiction format. It can also be called an autobiographical essay. In this essay, you will tell a factual story about some element of your life, perhaps for a college application or for a school assignment.

Preparing to Write Your Essay

• If you are writing a personal essay for a college application, it should serve to give the admissions committee a sense of who you are, beyond the basics of your application file. Your transcript, your letters of recommendation, and your resume will provide an overview of your work experience, interests, and academic record. Your essay allows you to make your application unique and individual to you, through your personal story. [2] X Research source
• The essay will also show the admissions committee how well you can write and structure an essay. Your essay should show you can create a meaningful piece of writing that interests your reader, conveys a unique message, and flows well.
• If you are writing a life story for a specific school assignment, such as in a composition course, ask your teacher about the assignment requirements.

• Include important events, such as your birth, your childhood and upbringing, and your adolescence. If family member births, deaths, marriages, and other life moments are important to your story, write those down as well.
• Focus on experiences that made a big impact on you and remain a strong memory. This may be a time where you learned an important life lesson, such as failing a test or watching someone else struggle and succeed, or where you felt an intense feeling or emotion, such as grief over someone’s death or joy over someone’s triumph.

• Have you faced a challenge in your life that you overcame, such as family struggles, health issues, a learning disability, or demanding academics?
• Do you have a story to tell about your cultural or ethnic background, or your family traditions?
• Have you dealt with failure or life obstacles?
• Do you have a unique passion or hobby?
• Have you traveled outside of your community, to another country, city, or area? What did you take away from the experience and how will you carry what you learned into a college setting?

• Remind yourself of your accomplishments by going through your resume. Think about any awards or experiences you would like spotlight in your essay. For example, explaining the story behind your Honor Roll status in high school, or how you worked hard to receive an internship in a prestigious program.
• Remember that your resume or C.V. is there to list off your accomplishments and awards, so your life story shouldn't just rehash them. Instead, use them as a jumping-off place to explain the process behind them, or what they reflect (or do not reflect) about you as a person.

• The New York Times publishes stellar examples of high school life story essays each year. You can read some of them on the NYT website. [8] X Research source

Writing Your Essay

• For example, you may look back at your time in foster care as a child or when you scored your first paying job. Consider how you handled these situations and any life lessons you learned from these lessons. Try to connect past experiences to who you are now, or who you aspire to be in the future.
• Your time in foster care, for example, may have taught you resilience, perseverance and a sense of curiosity around how other families function and live. This could then tie into your application to a Journalism program, as the experience shows you have a persistent nature and a desire to investigate other people’s stories or experiences.

• Certain life story essays have become cliche and familiar to admission committees. Avoid sports injuries stories, such as the time you injured your ankle in a game and had to find a way to persevere. You should also avoid using an overseas trip to a poor, foreign country as the basis for your self transformation. This is a familiar theme that many admission committees will consider cliche and not unique or authentic. [11] X Research source
• Other common, cliche topics to avoid include vacations, "adversity" as an undeveloped theme, or the "journey". [12] X Research source

• Try to phrase your thesis in terms of a lesson learned. For example, “Although growing up in foster care in a troubled neighborhood was challenging and difficult, it taught me that I can be more than my upbringing or my background through hard work, perseverance, and education.”
• You can also phrase your thesis in terms of lessons you have yet to learn, or seek to learn through the program you are applying for. For example, “Growing up surrounded by my mother’s traditional cooking and cultural habits that have been passed down through the generations of my family, I realized I wanted to discover and honor the traditions of other, ancient cultures with a career in archaeology.”
• Both of these thesis statements are good because they tell your readers exactly what to expect in clear detail.

• An anecdote is a very short story that carries moral or symbolic weight. It can be a poetic or powerful way to start your essay and engage your reader right away. You may want to start directly with a retelling of a key past experience or the moment you realized a life lesson.
• For example, you could start with a vivid memory, such as this from an essay that got its author into Harvard Business School: "I first considered applying to Berry College while dangling from a fifty-food Georgia pine tree, encouraging a high school classmate, literally, to make a leap of faith." [15] X Research source This opening line gives a vivid mental picture of what the author was doing at a specific, crucial moment in time and starts off the theme of "leaps of faith" that is carried through the rest of the essay.
• Another great example clearly communicates the author's emotional state from the opening moments: "Through seven-year-old eyes I watched in terror as my mother grimaced in pain." This essay, by a prospective medical school student, goes on to tell about her experience being at her brother's birth and how it shaped her desire to become an OB/GYN. The opening line sets the scene and lets you know immediately what the author was feeling during this important experience. It also resists reader expectations, since it begins with pain but ends in the joy of her brother's birth.
• Avoid using a quotation. This is an extremely cliche way to begin an essay and could put your reader off immediately. If you simply must use a quotation, avoid generic quotes like “Spread your wings and fly” or “There is no ‘I’ in ‘team’”. Choose a quotation that relates directly to your experience or the theme of your essay. This could be a quotation from a poem or piece of writing that speaks to you, moves you, or helped you during a rough time.

• Always use the first person in a personal essay. The essay should be coming from you and should tell the reader directly about your life experiences, with “I” statements.
• For example, avoid something such as “I had a hard time growing up. I was in a bad situation.” You can expand this to be more distinct, but still carry a similar tone and voice. “When I was growing up in foster care, I had difficulties connecting with my foster parents and with my new neighborhood. At the time, I thought I was in a bad situation I would never be able to be free from.”

• For example, consider this statement: "I am a good debater. I am highly motivated and have been a strong leader all through high school." This gives only the barest detail, and does not allow your reader any personal or unique information that will set you apart from the ten billion other essays she has to sift through.
• In contrast, consider this one: "My mother says I'm loud. I say you have to speak up to be heard. As president of my high school's debate team for the past three years, I have learned to show courage even when my heart is pounding in my throat. I have learned to consider the views of people different than myself, and even to argue for them when I passionately disagree. I have learned to lead teams in approaching complicated issues. And, most importantly for a formerly shy young girl, I have found my voice." This example shows personality, uses parallel structure for impact, and gives concrete detail about what the author has learned from her life experience as a debater.

• An example of a passive sentence is: “The cake was eaten by the dog.” The subject (the dog) is not in the expected subject position (first) and is not "doing" the expected action. This is confusing and can often be unclear.
• An example of an active sentence is: “The dog ate the cake.” The subject (the dog) is in the subject position (first), and is doing the expected action. This is much more clear for the reader and is a stronger sentence.

• Lead the reader INTO your story with a powerful beginning, such as an anecdote or a quote.
• Take the reader THROUGH your story with the context and key parts of your experience.
• End with the BEYOND message about how the experience has affected who you are now and who you want to be in college and after college.

Editing Your Essay

• For example, a sentence like “I struggled during my first year of college, feeling overwhelmed by new experiences and new people” is not very strong because it states the obvious and does not distinguish you are unique or singular. Most people struggle and feel overwhelmed during their first year of college. Adjust sentences like this so they appear unique to you.
• For example, consider this: “During my first year of college, I struggled with meeting deadlines and assignments. My previous home life was not very structured or strict, so I had to teach myself discipline and the value of deadlines.” This relates your struggle to something personal and explains how you learned from it.

• It can be difficult to proofread your own work, so reach out to a teacher, a mentor, a family member, or a friend and ask them to read over your essay. They can act as first readers and respond to any proofreading errors, as well as the essay as a whole.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://education.seattlepi.com/write-thesis-statement-autobiographical-essay-1686.html
• ↑ https://study.com/learn/lesson/autobiography-essay-examples-steps.html
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201101/writing-compelling-life-story-in-500-words-or-less
• ↑ Alicia Cook. Professional Writer. Expert Interview. 11 December 2020.
• ↑ https://mycustomessay.com/blog/how-to-write-an-autobiography-essay.html
• ↑ https://www.ahwatukee.com/community_focus/article_c79b33da-09a5-11e3-95a8-001a4bcf887a.html
• ↑ http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/10/your-money/four-stand-out-college-essays-about-money.html
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xY9AdFx0L4s
• ↑ https://www.medina-esc.org/Downloads/Practical%20Advice%20Writing%20College%20App%20Essay.pdf
• ↑ http://www.businessinsider.com/successful-harvard-business-school-essays-2012-11?op=1
• ↑ http://www.grammar-monster.com/glossary/passive_sentences.htm

About This Article

A life story essay is an essay that tells the story of your life in a short, nonfiction format. Start by coming up with a thesis statement, which will help you structure your essay. For example, your thesis could be about the influence of your family's culture on your life or how you've grown from overcoming challenging circumstances. You can include important life events that link to your thesis, like jobs you’ve worked, friendships that have influenced you, or sports competitions you’ve won. Consider starting your essay with an anecdote that introduces your thesis. For instance, if you're writing about your family's culture, you could start by talking about the first festival you went to and how it inspired you. Finish by writing about how the experiences have affected you and who you want to be in the future. For more tips from our Education co-author, including how to edit your essay effectively, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write About Yourself in a College Essay | Examples

Published on September 21, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on May 31, 2023.

An insightful college admissions essay requires deep self-reflection, authenticity, and a balance between confidence and vulnerability. Your essay shouldn’t just be a resume of your experiences; colleges are looking for a story that demonstrates your most important values and qualities.

To write about your achievements and qualities without sounding arrogant, use specific stories to illustrate them. You can also write about challenges you’ve faced or mistakes you’ve made to show vulnerability and personal growth.

Table of contents

Start with self-reflection, how to write about challenges and mistakes, how to write about your achievements and qualities, how to write about a cliché experience, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Before you start writing, spend some time reflecting to identify your values and qualities. You should do a comprehensive brainstorming session, but here are a few questions to get you started:

• What are three words your friends or family would use to describe you, and why would they choose them?
• Whom do you admire most and why?
• What are the top five things you are thankful for?
• What has inspired your hobbies or future goals?
• What are you most proud of? Ashamed of?

As you self-reflect, consider how your values and goals reflect your prospective university’s program and culture, and brainstorm stories that demonstrate the fit between the two.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Writing about difficult experiences can be an effective way to show authenticity and create an emotional connection to the reader, but choose carefully which details to share, and aim to demonstrate how the experience helped you learn and grow.

Be vulnerable

It’s not necessary to have a tragic story or a huge confession. But you should openly share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to evoke an emotional response from the reader. Even a cliché or mundane topic can be made interesting with honest reflection. This honesty is a preface to self-reflection and insight in the essay’s conclusion.

Don’t overshare

With difficult topics, you shouldn’t focus too much on negative aspects. Instead, use your challenging circumstances as a brief introduction to how you responded positively.

Share what you have learned

It’s okay to include your failure or mistakes in your essay if you include a lesson learned. After telling a descriptive, honest story, you should explain what you learned and how you applied it to your life.

While it’s good to sell your strengths, you also don’t want to come across as arrogant. Instead of just stating your extracurricular activities, achievements, or personal qualities, aim to discreetly incorporate them into your story.

Brag indirectly

Mention your extracurricular activities or awards in passing, not outright, to avoid sounding like you’re bragging from a resume.

Use stories to prove your qualities

Even if you don’t have any impressive academic achievements or extracurriculars, you can still demonstrate your academic or personal character. But you should use personal examples to provide proof. In other words, show evidence of your character instead of just telling.

Many high school students write about common topics such as sports, volunteer work, or their family. Your essay topic doesn’t have to be groundbreaking, but do try to include unexpected personal details and your authentic voice to make your essay stand out .

To find an original angle, try these techniques:

• Focus on a specific moment, and describe the scene using your five senses.
• Mention objects that have special significance to you.
• Instead of following a common story arc, include a surprising twist or insight.

Your unique voice can shed new perspective on a common human experience while also revealing your personality. When read out loud, the essay should sound like you are talking.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

First, spend time reflecting on your core values and character . You can start with these questions:

However, you should do a comprehensive brainstorming session to fully understand your values. Also consider how your values and goals match your prospective university’s program and culture. Then, brainstorm stories that illustrate the fit between the two.

When writing about yourself , including difficult experiences or failures can be a great way to show vulnerability and authenticity, but be careful not to overshare, and focus on showing how you matured from the experience.

Through specific stories, you can weave your achievements and qualities into your essay so that it doesn’t seem like you’re bragging from a resume.

Include specific, personal details and use your authentic voice to shed a new perspective on a common human experience.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Courault, K. (2023, May 31). How to Write About Yourself in a College Essay | Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 5, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/college-essay/write-about-yourself/

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How to Write About Experience: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you are writing a college application essay or creative nonfiction, this guide will help you how to write about experience.

There are many theories about how and why humans evolved to have an unparalleled capacity for language. One theory is that two million years ago, early humans developed language to describe their personal experiences with toolmaking to teach those skills to others. 

When you write nonfiction about your own experience, in any format, you are doing something profound. You are creating an opportunity for empathy and learning. 

Writing about your own experience may sound easy (after all, you’re the world’s foremost expert on yourself), but it isn’t always as simple as “Me name Oog. Me make knife by flaking chip from stone, see!” The personal essay writing process is full of risks and potential pitfalls. However, doing it well is within nearly anyone’s grasp if they follow a few basic steps. 

Write About Tension and Conflict

Write about growth, write about something remarkable yet relatable, listing ten ideas, organizational revision, thematic revision, stylistic revision, proofreading, the bottom line on writing about experiences, what are some good topics for a life experience essay, what are examples of personal experiences, step 1: choose a topic.

If you’re old enough to write a personal essay, you’ve lived long enough to have a wealth of experiences to write about. You may think nobody would want to read about your boring life, but you’re wrong. The key is simply choosing the right experiences to write about.

In any piece of writing—a novel, a memoir, or even a college application essay—the number one way to keep a reader’s interest is to focus on two dynamics: tension and conflict. Ideally, this will include both external conflict (you versus an obstacle in the outside world) and an internal conflict (you versus yourself, emotionally speaking).

Conflict is essential for a good essay. Nobody wants to read about the dinner party you hosted where the food turned out great, the guests all got along, and someone helped you do the dishes before they left. Instead, they want to read about the dinner party you hosted where one guest threw a glass of wine in her husband’s face before storming out. Conflict makes every story more interesting. 

Tension is different from conflict, but they are related. One form of tension is that uneasy period of waiting for the obviously inevitable conflict to occur. For example, suppose conflict is a glass of wine to the face.

In that case, tension is the wife slicing her steak viciously as she watches her husband play footsie with another woman, growing red-faced with anger, standing up to leave, realizing she has a glass of wine in her hand, throwing it, and the horrifying slow-motion sequence of red wine flying through the air on the way to her husband’s face.

Tension can take a variety of other forms. Foreshadowing can create tension. If you mention that the party ended with a glass of wine to the face, but you start by describing a party that is going smoothly, the reader’s curiosity about how the party went from A to point Z can create tension. 

The subtext is another good strategy. If you can give the reader the feeling that not all is as it appears or that they know more than the characters do, the reader will wonder if and how the characters will figure it out and what conflict will result.

There are exceptions, but in general, readers find stasis boring and growth interesting. Even in the case of our caveman Oog describing his innovative stone tool construction technique, communicating about how you learned to do something important is intrinsically interesting. That is why 99% of protagonists in fiction (James Bond excluded) experience an arc of personal growth over the course of a story. Nonfiction is no different.

Phillip Lopate, an expert on the art of creative nonfiction, calls it the “double-perspective.” He explains , “In writing memoir, the trick, it seems to me, is to establish a double-perspective, which will allow the reader to participate vicariously in the experience as it was lived (the confusions and misapprehensions of the child one was, say) while conveying the sophisticated wisdom of one’s current self.”

This does not necessarily mean that your writing should contain anything as heavy-handed as an explicit lesson or moral. Instead, your goal should be to balance clarity and subtlety. The key is to show growth rather than merely telling the reader that you grew.

One of my mother’s favorite stories is about a “rubber” chicken. In this story, she, a newlywed, prepared a wonderful dinner to impress her in-laws. As she carried out a platter topped with a golden, steaming, juicy chicken that she had roasted to perfection, she tripped on a rug.

Everyone stared as the chicken launched off the platter, bouncing across the room like a rubber ball. Concealing her panic with an upbeat tone, she said, “Oops! I’ll be right back.” She picked the chicken up from the floor, took it into the kitchen, dusted it off, put it back on the platter, and walked back into the dining room. Beaming, she announced, “Good thing I roasted a backup chicken!” 

It could have happened to anyone. Something like it (embarrassment at the moment you’re trying your hardest to impress someone) has happened to everyone. It is entirely relatable, but it is also remarkable. It is a story with tension and humor baked in (pardon the pun). The visual image of the chicken bouncing across the room is memorable. Listening to the story, I felt her triumph as she overcame her panic and devised a creative solution. 

The point is you don’t need to have worked as a war zone medic or climbed Mt. Everest to write a compelling story about your own experience. You simply need to mine your memories for moments that will surprise your readers, spark an emotional response, and engage their empathy.

Step 2: Brainstorm and Build

Coming up with the base topic that will form the backbone of your essay is the easy part. The next step is to develop the idea into a draft.

If I had in mind that I wanted to write a story about my mother, I might start by thinking about how she is a kind and caring person. She grew up on a farm, and she taught me to read …  BORING! When it comes to writing essays, the first idea is rarely the best idea. 

One great strategy for digging deeper, to find the truly interesting story, is to make a list. Force yourself to make a list of at least ten different things you could write about that fit the subject.

Even if you love the second or third idea, press on and write at least ten bullet points. You may stick with the second idea, but it’s more likely that around idea eight or nine, you’ll start running out of steam, and then BAM! You’ll remember the rubber chicken.

Even if you already have the central spine of your story, you can use this technique to flesh it out. I might try to think of the top ten lessons I learned from hearing my mother’s rubber chicken story (stay calm, think fast, lie when necessary, don’t put throw rugs in the dining room, always cook a backup chicken, etc.). Just remember that your first idea will almost always be the most boring, obvious idea. Dig through the chaff until you get to the wheat.

Mind maps are a great way to brainstorm connections that will give your essay depth. Take your central idea and write it in the center of the page, and then circle it. For example, I might write “Rubber Chicken” in the middle as my starting point.

Then draw lines radiating away from the circle, and at the end of each line, write down an idea related (even if tangentially) to the central topic. For example, my second-level ideas might include connections like “Mom teaching me how to cook,” “Vegetarianism,” “When honest people lie,” “Overcoming humiliation,” and “Disastrous first impressions.” Write as many as you can.

Circle each second-level idea, then repeat the process. Then see if you can find connections between any second and third-level ideas and draw lines connecting them.

In going through this process, I might discover that rather than writing about my mother’s rubber chicken story itself, I really want to write about terrible first date experiences (connecting the humiliation and first impressions topics). I might realize that I can use the rubber chicken story as an anecdote that contrasts how I actually handled a disastrous blind date with how I wish I’d handled it. 

These kinds of unexpected connections often result in the most innovative essays. 

One of my favorite essays that I’ve written appeared in my mind, fully formed, after I read a truly stunning essay (Leslie Jamison’s “The Empathy Exams.”). I set the book down on the couch next to me and grabbed my laptop to start writing. When I finally stood up, five thousand words later, I had a free-write that, with editing, became a pretty strong essay. 

It is rarely the case that a brain dump results in a structurally sound essay in the first draft. But even when the result is a hot mess that will never see the light of day, it is an extremely valuable exercise.

A no-thoughts-censored free-write uses the momentum of your internal, intuitive sense of narrative to help you uncover ideas that you would never have thought of simply by making lists or writing your first draft using a pre-determined structure and outline.

You might only save a sentence or two from your free-write to use in your actual essay. Still, the process of getting into a flow state, writing without constraints, simply letting your brain wander is an invaluable creative process. You might need to repeatedly free-write related themes to find the magical glue that holds your essay together. 

Step 4: Revise, Revise, Revise

This section is not simply called “Revise” because the truth is virtually no great essays about your experience result from one writing session and one revision session. Therefore, revision should be viewed not as a single editing pass but as a series of them, each targeting a specific aspect of the essay. 

It is crucial to find the proper structure for your topic. Once you do, you may need to rewrite substantial sections of your draft or write entirely new sections. Therefore, structural revision should always be the first editing pass you make to save yourself wasted time and effort (for example, time spent proofreading a section you end up cutting). 

You can go with a standard structure, like chronological order, or using a “frame story” (for example, starting with a flash-forward to the ending, then moving back in time to tell the story in a chronological format), or the classic three-act structure (set-up, rising action, and climax/resolution).

You can also try a more creative or innovative structure. The “braided essay,” in which you have several distinct threads/stories that weave together, is a great choice. 

You may need to try fitting your essay into several structures before you find the one that works best for describing your experience. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box.

At the same time, don’t get so attached to a structural gimmick (reverse-chronological order, or present tense, or anything other than first-person, for example) that it distracts from the substance of your writing.

Once you have the general structure, consider how you’ve integrated your major themes. Do they cohere, or do they send the reader’s mind heading in too many directions? Are they too obvious, or are they too subtle? Can you find ways to represent your theme implicitly, using symbolic images?

For example, is there an anecdote you can swap out for a different one that addresses the theme more meaningfully?

If it turns out all of your content related to one theme is in the last third of your essay, consider how you can sprinkle it into the beginning. Or perhaps you’ll want to do the opposite.

Is your essay structured to build up to a huge and unexpected revelation? Maybe you want to cut out obvious hints about the revelation that slipped into the first half. 

Only after the substance of the essay feels solid should you give serious attention to your sentence quality, but that doesn’t make it any less important. If you have any doubt about the power of style to elevate an essay, read one by David Sedaris, Virginia Woolf, Hunter S. Thompson, or James Baldwin.

When you’re editing for style, one of the best strategies is reading your essay aloud. Consider how your sentence length and structure affect pacing and emphasis. 

Remember that you’re writing about your experience, so the authorial voice should sound like you . You can aim for a slightly elevated version of how you normally speak, but be careful not to elevate it too much. Many otherwise delightful essays have been ruined by overly formal diction or overuse of a thesaurus.

Revision is a great time to inject some humor. You might also do a little research and include a quotation that fits your theme or some factual information that contextualizes the personal experience you’re writing about. 

Try to replace vague, mundane details with unusual, specific information. (My mother’s roasted chicken didn’t just fall to the floor, it bounced across the room like a rubber ball, for example.) Replace the passive voice with action verbs. Find good opportunities for figurative language, but don’t overdo it. 

Only when your essay feels like it’s polished and firing on all cylinders should you bother to look for typos and formatting problems. Unfortunately, by this time, you will likely be unable to actually read your essay. Instead, your eyes will skip over it and read what you expect to see there rather than the words that are actually on the page. 

That makes it extremely important to have a friend proofread your essay rather than doing it all yourself. The good news is, your essay should be so well-written at this point, from your previous rounds of editing, that it will be a pleasure for your friend to read for you.

There are certain essays and essay collections that stick with you. Sometimes it’s because the author had a truly extraordinary experience, but more often is because in reflecting on the subject, the author showed genuine insight into their own life that sparks the reader to have a new understanding of their own life.

With deliberate use of conflict, vivid detail, and the double-perspective, you can elevate your own experience and inspire others with your writing. 

FAQs on How to Write About Experience

You can’t go wrong following the three guidelines described above (write about tension and conflict, write about growth, and write about something remarkable but relatable). However, the specific experiences you write about should be guided by the goal of the writing.

For example, if you’re writing a college application essay, make sure that you directly and specifically answer the prompt. If the application asks, “Describe a person you admire and why,” don’t forget to explain the why (not just what admirable thing the person did, but why that thing mattered to you personally). But even though the prompt doesn’t ask it, remember the overall Why? Why should they want a student like you at their university?

The same principle applies when writing about your work history and other relevant experience for a prospective employer. Perhaps above all, the university or hiring manager you’re writing for wants to see that you have the potential, under their guidance, to grow as an intellectual/professional and as a human being. So show them that you know how to grow.

Even if you’re writing an essay that is more creative, more literary, focusing on the double-perspective is often the easiest way to find an essay topic with enough meaningful substance to mine. Look for a past experience that is vivid in your memory (so that you can accurately and compellingly portray your younger self’s experience) but is also remote enough to show growth (by contrasting the at-the-time experience with a new perspective).

Trauma can be a tempting starting point for an essay, but be cautious. Unless you have sufficient distance and have done the hard work of processing and recovery, trauma can be just as challenging to read as it is to write. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t write about your trauma without including at least a few moments of levity, you aren’t ready to write about it for others to read.

If you’re trying to write about your experiences and still struggling to come up with a subject, here are five great starting points: 1. Write about a time when you faced significant obstacles and overcame them. 2. Write about the end of a meaningful relationship, for better or worse. 3. Write about the first time you visited a place totally unlike your usual environment and what it showed you about your blind spots. 4. Write about a firmly held belief you used to have and what changed your mind. 5. Write about a habit that is important to you and how you formed it.

Life Experience Essay: How to Write a Brilliant Paper

A life experience essay combines the elements of narration, description, and self-reflection. Such a paper has to focus on a single event that had a significant impact on a person’s worldview and values.

Writing an essay about life experience prompts students to do the following:

• evaluate their behavior in specific situations critically;
• analyze their life and find significant moments;
• see connections between some crucial events;
• tell the story of their lives.

You may struggle with such papers, not knowing how to structure them. So, here are valuable tips for writing essays about experience in life. Hopefully, they will help you with your task. Don’t forget to bookmark our website in case you need any assignment assistance.

• 📅 Picking One
• ⏳ Essay Topics

📅 Picking One Life Experience

Many people struggle with such essay writing because they don’t know what events to choose from. Almost any person had a memorable moment at least once. Yet, it might be challenging to share it with someone else, especially in a narrative essay on a life-changing experience.

To find the right event for your essay, here are the essential preliminary steps that you need to take:

• Choose a memory to reflect in your essay. Think of any past event that made you reevaluate your views about other people or your values and moral principles. For example, you can describe an encounter with an exciting person that influenced you. Alternatively, think about discussing a situation when you had to make a moral choice. Make sure the event is indeed significant for you and will impress the readers.
• Describe the settings. It is essential to let the readers dive into the atmosphere you experienced. Introduce the background. Talk about the time and location of the event and describe your feelings. The more detail you provide, the more empathetic your reader will be. And in case some of the writing doesn’t seem to come together well enough, don’t hesitate to use a sentence changer to mix things up.
• Analyze the impact of the event on your life. Compare and contrast your views and values before and after this event. How did the experience influence your life? What did you learn from it? The analysis is probably an essential part of your life experience essay. So, make sure your ideas are concise and clear enough.
• Evaluate your experience. Finally, determine how this experience can help you or your readers. Highlight the key lessons you gained from the event you are describing in your essay. Give the audience valuable suggestions.

🌱 Life Experience Essay: Key Tips

Having chosen the most memorable experience, you can start writing your essay. It’s a common creative task for college or high school students. Usually, such papers require to reflect on their life while telling a story with a moral. You have to explain how one significant event in the past affected or even changed you.

Before composing your paper, it is essential to plan it properly. Here are some tips on how to do that:

• Decide whether the chosen topic is compelling.

Before starting structuring your essay, make sure you selected a great event. Here is a trick for you. Answer the following questions to evaluate your topic:

• Did I learn something from that experience?
• Did it significantly change my life?
• Can I apply the knowledge I gained in the future?
• Can I somehow educate the readers talking about this event?

If you answered YES, congratulations, you have a great topic. If your answers are NO, consider choosing another event to talk about.

• Order the events logically.

While talking about your life-changing experience, it is essential to list the events in a logical order. Before writing your essay, outline. Decide on what you will tell first, what should be mentioned next, and how to conclude the paper. A logical structure will help the readers not to get overwhelmed with your thoughts.

• Details matter.

For the readers, every detail might play a tremendous role. So, make sure you don’t forget to mention any essential turn of events. But be careful. Don’t overdo it. Include only vital and most vivid details in your essay about experience in life.

Several strategies will help you with that:

• A catchy intro is a key to a successful essay on life experience. Start your paper with an attention-getter or a sentence that can make your reader interested. For this purpose, you can use a quote or a paradoxical statement that shows how two conflicting ideas can co-exist. Turn on your imagination. The more exciting your first paragraph is – the highest chances to catch your readers’ attention are.
• Explain your choice. No doubt, every person gets into a life-changing experience. So, impress your readers with your idea. Prove to them that your experience is worth sharing. Only if you introduce your concepts dynamically and effectively, your essay will be indeed fascinating.
• Make your experience essay well balanced. It is also vital for you to find and maintain the balance between narrative and self-reflection. On the one hand, your paper has to describe an event accurately. As has been said before, you need to explain what happened and how it happened. On the other hand, you also need to analyze the impact the event’s experience had on you. So, make sure that your paper includes both: narrative and self-reflection.
• Compose a memorable conclusion. The conclusion of your essay has to explain how experience can be applied. In other words, you need to show what you learned from the event. Explain how the knowledge you gained can affect your decisions in the future. Also, show your readers what they can learn from your life lesson.

See how it all can be accomplished in a life experience essay example below:

⏳ Life Experience Essay: Topics

Now you can approach an essay on a life experience that profoundly influenced you. Such a paper allows you to demonstrate your creativity and writing skills. So, try to be natural, and this mindset will help you write a great essay about yourself .

We prepared a list of life experience topics that will help you start:

• How I conquered my fear . Were you afraid of something but found the courage to overcome your fears ? Isn’t it a perfect topic for an essay about experience in life? Introduce your fear. Explain how you conquered it. Describe how your life changed after it. Who knows, maybe you will inspire somebody else to deal with their fears.
• A failure that made me stronger. Unsurprisingly, everybody fails. But have you ever been in a situation when your failure motivated you to improve? Describe this experience and tell the reader how you felt about it. Share your insight into overcoming failures with the audience!
• How I met the love of my life. This topic is relevant to those having a boyfriend or a girlfriend who tremendously changed their lives. Are you one of them? Then consider writing about your life before and after you’ve met the love of your life. Did you change your habits? Did you improve? Tell the reader more about that in your experience essay. 
• The most memorable experience of my childhood. We start our character formation in early childhood. So, maybe there was an incredibly significant event in your childhood that impacted your personal development. Analyze this experience and present your thoughts in the essay. 
• My first public performance. Well, public performances are a nightmare for some people. Therefore, the first appearance on the stage might become a life-changing and unforgettable experience. Do you have something fascinating to share about your first performance? Consider selecting this topic, then. 
• The most meaningful conversation I have ever had. Sometimes conversations can be pretty shallow. Sometimes, however, a talk might become the most memorable experience in your life. Have you ever had such a conversation? With whom? What was the topic of discussion? How did your perception of life or set of values transform after that talk? 
• A fascinating journey . Are you a fan of traveling? Then you have probably been on numerous trips . But have you ever been on a journey that significantly impacted your life? What country did you visit? What did you see or learn that impressed you most? How has your perception of life changed after that journey?
• A piece of art that impressed me a lot. It’s no wonder that art has a tremendous power. Sometimes, a piece of art may turn an individual’s life upside down. Has it ever happened to you? What influenced you: a book, a movie, a painting? What were your feelings and emotions? 
• My first award. Are you a professional athlete, an outstanding singer, or a successful dancer? Then, you probably have numerous medals, cups, and certificates. But do you remember that unforgettable moment when you came to the stage to receive your first award? What was your way until that first award? How did you feel when you finally got it? What did you learn from that life-changing experience?
• Significant event that had a positive impact on my life .
• An unforgettable visit to Africa .
• Describe what makes you want to travel.
• The experience of my first job at a rehabilitation center.
• Discuss how a university degree became a driver of positive changes in your life.
• The day I experimented on challenging gender norms.
• Give details about your leadership experience.  
• My experience of winning the fight by losing it .
• Analyze your experience of adopting a pet.
• Describe your experience with English course and how it influenced your everyday life.
• My experience of learning to ride a bicycle .
• Examine the influence of a specific culture on your life.
• How I bought my first laptop .
• Spend twelve hours without smartphone and describe your experience.
• An unforgettable experience of becoming a mom.
• Analyze your experience with writing class and how it helped you to master writing in different styles.
• Discuss your experience of mysophobia and its impact on your life.
• The positive effect of art and dance movement therapy on my mental health.  
• Explain how you managed to resolve a conflict with your friend.
• A defining event from my childhood.
• Describe the challenges you faced at high school.
• Tell about your experience as a volunteer.
• Discuss your experience of working in a contact center .
• Transformation of my life values after the lockdown.
• The lessons I’ve learned being a Walmart employee .
• Explain how mindfulness practice improved the quality of your life.
• Personal experience of work with children with autism .
• Describe the day you experienced a culture shock .
• Tell about your experience of asking for help and results you obtained.
• Give details about the worst job you’ve ever worked at.
• My experience of covert conflict and how I managed to resolve it.
• My trip to Yellowstone National Park.
• Depict your last visit to the amusement park .
• The educational experiences that influenced my career goals.  

Thank you for reading our article! We hope our tips were helpful. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share the page with your friends.

This might be interesting for you:

• School Days Essay: How to Describe a Memorable Event
• Growing Up Essay: Great Ideas for Your College Assignment
• Childhood Memories Essay: Brilliant Writing Ideas
• Writing Essay about Someone Who Has Made an Impact on Your Life
• Excellent Remembering a Person Essay: Free Writing Guidelines
• How to Write a Personal Experience Essay With Sample Papers: Virginia Kearney, Owlcation Education
• An Experience That Changed My Life Essay: Cram
• Strategies for Essay Writing: Harvard College Writing Center
• Basic Essay and Paragraph Format: Utah Valley University Writing Center
• Elements of a Personal Essay: Brigham Young University – Idaho
• Life Changing Experience Essay: Bartleby
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I need an essay about an experience that impacted you until today.

Thanks for the given information. Can you help me with what I ask you?

Experience Essay

Experience essay generator.

People love talking about their experiences with their family, friends, and loved ones. You can use your love for that to practice and enhance your essay writing skills. Yes, you have read it right. It is like hitting two birds with one stone. Tell your story by composing an experience essay.

10+ Experience Essay Examples

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What Is an Experience Essay?

An experience essay is a composition that requires you to narrate an event that you have personally experienced. It is a type of academic essay that most high school, colleges, and post-graduation studies assign their students to write to improve their writing. Most scholarship applications also require you to write this essay. In addition, some people devise this as a part of their resume when applying for work. 

How to Compose a Riveting Experience Essay

Composing various literature essays will also require you to apply different skills. In that sense, this piece of writing will test your storytelling skills. How do you effectively narrate a story on a paper? You can discover that as you go through the process of learning how to devise this document.

1. Choose an Unforgettable Memory

In selecting an experience to tell, you should choose those experiences that considerably impacted your personal life. It can be either be a positive or a negative experience. For example, you can write about your best day or the worst experience you had. Most people would opt for unique topics, but that is not a requirement. The important thing is how to make your unforgettable experience memorable for your readers. 

2. Arrange the Sequence of Events  

Sometimes when people share something, they often tell another story in between and then go back to their original topic. That’s a no-no in writing your experience essay. It needs to be carefully structured. That said, you need to arrange it by properly sequencing the events. There are available blank outline templates online to help you with this task.

3. Devise an Engrossing Introductory Paragraph

An impressive introduction should contain a compelling hook and a powerful thesis statement . The first paragraph of your essay can be a make or break factor for your entire writing. People often start judging the quality of your composition after reading your introductory paragraph. It sets the vibe and gives them the first impression. It is essential to pay a lot of attention to this segment.

4. Craft a Rousing Statement for Your Conclusion

Your conclusion paragraph should provide the gist and the purpose of your experience essay. In this last part, you should restate your thesis statement and summarize the underlying message of your writing. It should include a personal reflection regarding what that particular event made you learn about yourself. A conclusion for an essay should be powerful enough to rouse the emotions of your readers.

How should you describe an experience in your essay?

Writing a personal experience essay does not only require you to provide the order of events that happened in your experience. Instead, you should include describing what you are thinking and feeling at that moment. In addition, you should also mention the activities that are also happening during your experiences. Don’t forget to include the reactions of the people involved in your story.

What are good topics for an experience essay?

One of the most important factors to consider in choosing your topic is the thematic statement it presents. Do you want to write about love, friendship, or family? You can also choose to compose about the defining moments of your life. Such as the time you faced your greatest fears or the day you met your best friend.

What makes an experience essay different from a narrative essay?

An experience essay and a narrative essay are mostly similar. Both of these writings focus on narrating an experience of the writer. Despite that, there is something that sets them apart from each other. An experience essay focuses more on an individual’s discovery about oneself. On the other hand, the latter aims to inform the readers of how the experience made the writer realize things. Particularly the lessons regarding another person or an issue.

The act of composing this type of essay is a formative experience. In the process of writing it, you can learn lessons about yourself as well as on writing essays. Your life experiences are full of lessons. Ensure to capture the message and convey it to your readers. Secure that employment or that award certificate by crafting your experience essay thoroughly.

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Write an Experience Essay on your first day at school

Discuss a travel experience that changed your perspective in an Experience Essay

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An Experience That Changed My Life Essay | Life Changing Experiences, Long and Short Essays on Life Changing Experiences

October 1, 2021 by Prasanna

Experience That Changed My Life Essay: It is rightly said that ‘Experience is the best teacher.’ Experience teaches a lot more things. Life gives you many experiences and certain experiences in your life can impact you a lot. In life we all have faced some or the other experience that has changed the way we perceive things. Through these life lessons we can learn a lot about ourselves and how strong we can be in difficult situations and circumstances.

You can also find more  Essay Writing  articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Long Essay on Experience that Changed My Life 500 Words in English

Sometimes things are out of our control and we can’t do anything about it. Experiences can be good and sometimes terrible that results in a positive or negative impact on one’s life. Life is full of many unexpected challenges and unknown turning points that will come along any time. People must learn and grow from every experience that they go through in life rather than losing yourself. Change is a part of life. Life gives many experiences almost every day.

An experience that changed my life was on 21st August 2004. One of my biggest life changing experiences was the time when I lost my father suddenly. Till that very day I was a very immature and jolly person. I don’t know what the worries were. I was the eldest one in my family. But as we lost the head of our family life took a new turning point in my life I had to take charge of all the decisions made which I had never done before. My mother was not in a state to understand anything. I started making big decisions even about finances, about our house and many more.

When my father died, my life had changed completely. I lost him in my own lap. He took his last breath and it was very heartbreaking. Accepting his loss was one of the hardest things that I’ve ever had to do. It was very hard because it was unpredictable. I let all my emotions out, because I had to remember to take care of myself and my family too. Now it was the time for me to be more responsible.

His death made me an introvert, more responsible, think for myself and my family, and see things differently. Now that he is gone, I have to take charge of many things. My father was my counselor, my friend, my guidance, and most of all my motivator. I feel completely lonely without him.

I also experienced how people were falsely claiming that he is a family member of theirs and they will take care of me and my family, but two weeks after the cremation they were the same as before with no sympathy. I finally got a glimpse of the real world who are my real well wishers and who are not. Looking back at all of this I realized how important my father was to me. Now I am a more focused and responsible person. I still feel my father lives through me. Even though my father is gone he still guides me at each and every point of life. His death made me an introvert, think for myself and my family, and live life practically. I wish I could thank him for making me a better person. It was his inspirations which made me handle things in a proper way.

Short Essay on Experience that Changed My Life

According to me, experiences are very important to forge our personality over time. From very childhood I grew up in a nurturing and loving environment where I always felt safe and loved. My parents always made me feel important. I was a stubborn child. I used to throw tantrums if things didn’t go my way. I was a very demanding child as well, though my mother loved me unconditionally. My mother was very patient and compassionate and used to explain things so well to make me understand why things couldn’t always be how I wanted them to be. But as a child I never wanted to understand her preachings. But then once on a school trip to an orphanage totally changed my view towards life.

Orphanage is the place where the orphans (children who are homeless having no parents) are taken care of.

Once when I was in Grade 4 our school planned an educational trip to an orphanage institute.We were asked to bring whatever we wanted to donate. My mother gave me some of my old toys, clothes and some sweets. We collected a good amount of material to distribute.

As we entered the orphanage all the kids gathered in a hall. There were children of all ages. They strayed at us with eyes full of hope. We were asked to distribute the things and spent some time with them. They were so excited to receive these old things. In conversation with them we came to know that they have only two to three dresses to wear. One plate and a bowl for their food. Even the food served to them was always the same and limited. They don’t have many varieties of food to eat. They have toys in common to play with. These children don’t know the meaning of love, care and affection. They cannot demand for anything. The plight of every child was so miserable.I realised all my mistakes. I realised fortunate I am to receive all the luxury.

I never liked it when my parents reprimanded me for not studying properly, when I made blunders, when I didn’t listen to them but there was a concern behind every word that they said. They took care of me at every juncture of my lives no matter what their condition.

But I felt so sorry for these children because they are lacking all those words of care, anger, and love.

Visiting the orphanage is a life changing experience for me. From that day I started appreciating the little things in life. I never demanded for unexpected things. I feel like helping every needy person.

I also started understanding my mother’s preachings and with her help, over time, I learned how to deal with my emotions and situations and these experiences shaped my behavior and personality.

I feel extremely fortunate that I have parents with me and they provide me all the luxury. I am thankful to them.

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Essay on Unforgettable Experience In Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on Unforgettable Experience In Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Unforgettable Experience In Life

Unforgettable experiences: a lifetime of memories.

Unforgettable experiences are those moments in life that leave a lasting impact on our minds and hearts. They can be joyful, challenging, or even heartbreaking, but they all teach us valuable lessons and shape who we become.

Adventures and Challenges

Some unforgettable experiences are the result of adventures and challenges we take on. These could be anything from camping in the wilderness to traveling to a new country to participating in a sports competition. These experiences push us beyond our limits and help us discover hidden strengths and abilities.

Heartwarming Moments

Other unforgettable experiences are the result of heartwarming moments with loved ones. These could be anything from a family reunion to a friend’s wedding to a child’s first steps. These moments remind us of the importance of relationships and the joy of being surrounded by people we love.

Learning and Growth

Unforgettable experiences can also come from learning and growing as individuals. This could be anything from reading a book that changes our perspective on life to taking a class that teaches us a new skill. These experiences help us expand our knowledge, develop new interests, and become better versions of ourselves.

250 Words Essay on Unforgettable Experience In Life

An uplifting memory.

In the tapestry of life, we encounter a myriad of experiences that leave an indelible mark on our souls. Among these, there exists one particular memory that stands out, an unforgettable experience that continues to evoke vivid emotions and shape our perspectives.

A Serendipitous Encounter

During my formative years, my family undertook a journey to a picturesque seaside town. It was during this sojourn that I stumbled upon a chance encounter that would forever alter the course of my life. While strolling along the sun-kissed beach, I noticed an elderly gentleman sitting on a weathered bench, his eyes lost in contemplation of the vast ocean before him. Curiosity piqued, I approached him and struck up a conversation. The ensuing hours were filled with laughter, storytelling, and the wisdom of a life well-lived. From that day forward, I carried with me the invaluable lessons imparted by this chance encounter, recognizing the profound impact that human connection can have.

Overcoming Adversity

Life’s path is not always paved with ease; challenges and obstacles often present themselves, testing our resilience and grit. It was during one such trying time that I discovered the strength within me. Battling against adversity, I persevered, drawing upon my inner fortitude and the unwavering support of loved ones. This experience taught me the transformative power of resilience, equipping me with the tools to navigate life’s inevitable storms.

The Beauty of Nature’s Embrace

In the realm of unforgettable experiences, one cannot overlook the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. Whether it be the tranquility of a mountain sunrise, the gentle murmur of a flowing river, or the boundless expanse of the night sky, nature possesses an inherent ability to captivate and inspire. Through my interactions with the natural world, I have gained a deep appreciation for its intricacies and boundless wonders, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with all living things.

The Power of Kindness

The world is often painted with kindness and compassion, and it is through experiencing these acts that we find true meaning and purpose. Lending a helping hand to those in need, offering a word of encouragement, or simply being present for someone can make an immeasurable difference. Through kindness, we not only uplift others but also enrich our own lives, creating a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond the initial act.

500 Words Essay on Unforgettable Experience In Life

What is an unforgettable experience, why are unforgettable experiences important.

Unforgettable experiences help us learn and grow as individuals. They can teach us about ourselves, our values, and our priorities. They can also help us develop resilience and coping skills, and they can make us more empathetic and compassionate towards others.

What Makes an Experience Unforgettable?

There are many factors that can contribute to an experience being unforgettable. Some of the most common include:

Examples of Unforgettable Experiences

Unforgettable experiences can come in many different forms. Some common examples include:

Major life events: Graduating from school, getting married, having children, and retiring are all major life events that can be unforgettable experiences. Travel: Traveling to new and exotic places can be an unforgettable experience, as it exposes us to new cultures, people, and ways of life. Adventure: Engaging in adventurous activities, such as skydiving, bungee jumping, or rock climbing, can be unforgettable experiences, as they challenge us physically and mentally. Overcoming adversity: Overcoming a difficult challenge or adversity, such as a serious illness, a natural disaster, or a financial hardship, can be an unforgettable experience, as it teaches us resilience and strength.

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Essay Samples on Life Changing Experience

Speaking of topics that you may consider as a student, there is a lot to choose from. It can be your college experience or volunteering work that you have done that became a life-changing experience or something that you have seen or understood as a child. In either case, see our free life changing experience essay example to see how you can shape your thoughts correctly and follow the structure of academic writing. It must have a strong introduction with a hook, at least two body paragraphs, and a conclusion part that sums up all the ideas and thoughts that you have outlined in your paper. Just be yourself and think about what has inspired you in life or what events have helped to shape who you are.

What Experiences Have Shaped My Life

What experiences have shaped your life? Life is a tapestry woven from the threads of experiences — each moment, encounter, and challenge contributing to the person we become. As I reflect on the experiences that have shaped my life, I am reminded of the transformative...

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The Moment That Changed Everything: an Unpredictable Nature of Life

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An Unforgettable Day: A Chapter Etched in the Tapestry of My Life

Life is composed of a tapestry of moments, each weaving a unique story that contributes to the fabric of our existence. Among these moments, there are days that stand out as unforgettable, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and memories. This essay chronicles one...

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An Important Event in My Life: a Reflection

Life is a series of moments that shape our journey, but some events leave an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. Among the myriad experiences, one event stands out as a pivotal moment that altered the course of my life. This essay delves into...

A Turning Point: An Event That Changed My Life Forever

Life is an unpredictable journey, shaped by a series of experiences that mold our character and perspective. Among these experiences, there are pivotal events that stand out as turning points, forever altering the course of our lives. This essay recounts an event that profoundly impacted...

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My Memorable Experience and How It Has Shaped My Perspective

Life is an array of moments, some fleeting and some etched into our memories forever. Among these moments, there are those that stand out, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. In this narrative essay, I delve into a memorable experience that has...

A Life Lesson I Have Learned and How It Continues to Shape Me

Life is a continuous journey of learning, filled with moments that impart wisdom and shape our perspectives. Some lessons are gentle whispers, while others are profound experiences that leave an everlasting imprint. In this narrative essay, I will share a significant life lesson that I...

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A Life Changing Experience: The Transformative Power of Challenges

Life is a journey filled with moments that shape our perspectives, redefine our priorities, and ultimately change the course of our existence. A life-changing experience is one that leaves an indelible mark, altering our beliefs, values, and the way we perceive the world around us....

A Life-Changing Experience About Respect and Being Respectful

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"A Whisper Of AIDS" By Mary Fisher: The Life-Changing Experience

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Our Life Experiences: Who We Are

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The Potential Father Figures in Stevenson's Treasure Island

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My Life Changing Experience of Losing My Old Job and Changing Careers

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How Living Independently Changed My Life

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Life Changing Moment that Encouraged Me to Help People Suffering from Cancer

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Best topics on Life Changing Experience

1. What Experiences Have Shaped My Life

2. The Moment That Changed Everything: an Unpredictable Nature of Life

3. An Unforgettable Day: A Chapter Etched in the Tapestry of My Life

4. An Important Event in My Life: a Reflection

5. A Turning Point: An Event That Changed My Life Forever

6. My Memorable Experience and How It Has Shaped My Perspective

7. A Life Lesson I Have Learned and How It Continues to Shape Me

8. A Life Changing Experience: The Transformative Power of Challenges

9. A Life-Changing Experience About Respect and Being Respectful

10. “A Whisper Of AIDS” By Mary Fisher: The Life-Changing Experience

11. Our Life Experiences: Who We Are

12. The Potential Father Figures in Stevenson’s Treasure Island

13. The Fictional Recreation of Vasco Da Gama’s Trip

14. The Lessons Applied to Experiences Learned from Rich Dad, Poor Dad

15. My Life Changing Experience of Losing My Old Job and Changing Careers

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how should i describe a life event in my essay that prepared me for college.

So I'm drafting my college essay and I've got this life event that really impacted me and I think it shows I'm ready for college. But how do I describe it in a way that's compelling and not just telling a story? Any advice from those who tackled something similar?

When you're describing a life event in your college essay, it's important to focus on reflection, rather than merely recounting the event. Think about how this experience has shaped your perspective, influenced your goals, or contributed to your character development.

Start by setting the scene to engage the reader, then swiftly move to express how this event was pivotal in your personal growth. Show rather than tell; for example, if you're writing about how you overcame a challenge, detail the steps you took and the resourcefulness or resilience you displayed with active descriptions and action rather than a passive explanation. You want to make it clear why this event makes you a strong candidate for college by connecting it to attributes like determination, leadership, or a passion for learning. Remember to close your essay by looking forward; explain how the event has prepared you for the challenges of college and beyond, and how it will inform your contributions to the college community.

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

CASPA PA School Applications: How to Answer the New Life Experiences Essay

Your initial reaction might be to panic, but don’t worry. We’ll take it step by step so you’ll know exactly how to tackle this new essay prompt. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident in crafting a response that will make you stand out as an applicant. Without further ado, let’s take a look at what this new essay is all about. 🙂

Table of Contents

The New CAPSA Life Experiences Essay

First, let’s take a look at the new CASPA Life Experiences essay prompt :

Explain how your life experiences and/or perspectives could contribute to the PA profession. How can these experiences help advance the goal of having healthcare providers who reflect the population of the country? This question provides an opportunity to describe impactful life experiences, especially challenges or adversity in areas such as family background, community setting, education, or other hardships or life experiences that may not be easily presented in other parts of the application. The experiences described can be from any point in your timeline and do not need to be directly related to the field of medicine or health care. This question is also intended to provide admissions committees with information to understand the context of your journey better and to assist with mission alignment through holistic review of applicants. (2,500 characters)

Now, let’s take a look at the steps to crafting a standout essay . 😀

Why Is There a New CASPA Essay?

As you’re probably aware, the number of PA school applicants grows each year, but the number of available seats in each program remains roughly the same. Consequently, admissions committees need to be more selective about interviews and acceptances , which is a difficult task, given that there are more qualified applicants than seats available.

With thousands of highly impressive applications each cycle, admissions committees need ways to better distinguish between applicants, which is where this new essay comes into play. The Life Experiences essay gives admissions committees a chance to get to know you better as a person before ever meeting you. The essay format itself is also valuable, as it allows applicants to demonstrate their capacity for thoughtful reflection and effective communication – attributes that are not as readily apparent on a resume or CV.

Will It Look Bad if I Skip the New CASPA Life Experiences Essay?

As tempting as it is, don’t skip the life experiences assay. A general rule of thumb for any competitive application is to answer every essay prompt, even if it’s labeled as “ optional. ” This is because opting out of writing an essay can give admissions committees the impression that you can’t be bothered to put in the extra time, which signals disinterest or laziness.

Simply put , don’t skip any essays , unless a prompt genuinely doesn’t apply to you or you are truly unable to answer in a way that will add value to your overall application. Instead of looking at this essay like another hurdle to overcome, think of it as an opportunity to further showcase yourself!

How to Write the CASPA Life Experiences Essay

• Pick a topic.

When it comes to picking a topic, ask yourself, “What unique insights do admissions committees want to learn about me that aren’t covered elsewhere in my application?” This question should give you a good idea about which topics are and aren’t suitable to include in your essay.

Keep in mind that this essay question lends itself to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) values , as it specifically addresses accepting students that align with program missions and training future healthcare providers that reflect the population of the country.

Therefore, an effective strategy for approaching this essay is to think about a subgroup to which you belong, recount a specific challenge you encountered as a member of this subgroup, and convey the insights you gained in the process .

Here are 12 topic ideas for the CASPA Life Experiences essay :

• Coming from a disadvantaged and/or low-income background
• Facing discrimination based on age, sex/gender, race/ethnicity, culture, etc.
• Navigating a learning disability or neurodiversity in an academic setting
• Growing up in a single-parent household
• Immigrating to a new country and adapting to a different culture
• Overcoming language barriers as a non-native English speaker
• Navigating the challenges of being a first-generation college student
• Overcoming cultural or familial expectations to pursue a career in healthcare
• Overcoming homelessness or housing insecurity
• Witnessing a loved one struggle with a health condition
• Serving as a caregiver for a family member with a chronic illness or disability
• Overcoming a personal tragedy

Helpful hint : Look at PA programs’ missions and goals. Use these topics to help you get started. You can also think about anecdotes that you originally considered including in your personal statement but ended up not using.

Whatever topic you decide, make sure that it’s personal and specific to you . Tell your own story, rather than crafting a generic-sounding essay that could’ve come from any applicant.

• Avoid pitfalls.

Don’t discuss topics that are included in other parts of your application, particularly your curriculum vitae (CV). Doing so would be redundant, as it would fail to provide admissions committees new insights into your qualifications. (Remember, they’ll read your CV so there’s no need for a repeat.)

Instead, focus on areas where you can offer fresh perspectives or delve deeper into aspects of your background that haven’t been highlighted elsewhere . Use this essay to showcase more of your personality so admissions committees are more inclined to extend an interview invite to learn more about you.

Lastly, don’t speak poorly of anyone . Instead, focus more on highlighting your positive attributes. 🙂

• Consider essay length.

The CASPA Life Experiences essay has a limit of 2,500 characters. For a better idea, this is half of the allowed length for the personal statement. With this limit in mind, make sure to stay concise and focused.

While you don’t have to hit the allowed character limit, you should try to get close. Doing so demonstrates to admissions committees that you put in an adequate amount of time and effort into your essay.

• Write your Life Experiences essay.

The Life Experiences essay is a place to emphasize your soft skills and offer a glimpse into your thought process. With an essay format, you have the opportunity to present a narrative that is both engaging and reflective, connecting your past experiences with your future goals.

Pro tip : Show. Don’t tell.

First, provide a concise but detailed account of the circumstances surrounding the life event you chose. Describe the nature of the event: What happened? What were some of the contributing factors? How long did it last? Offer a clear timeline so admissions committees can fully grasp the context and significance of the experience.

Then, explain how the experience impacted you. How was your life altered as a result of the event? How did you feel? What was your thought process throughout the experience? By providing insight into your perspective rather than solely recounting events, you not only showcase your personality but also build empathy and connection by giving readers a front-row seat to your journey.

Next, discuss how you overcame the challenge and your takeaways. Even if the end result wasn’t exactly what you wanted, what did you learn? What lessons are you taking with you? How did the event shape you into who you are today? Regardless of the outcome, you should highlight your thought process and ability to overcome adversity.

Lastly, tie your essay back to your envisioned role as a PA. How will the experience make you a better provider, team member, and/or leader? The connection doesn’t have to be a direct one but be sure to emphasize relevant qualities that are aligned with PA program missions and the PA profession as a whole. Some examples include being adaptable, resilient, and compassionate.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this essay allows for a more nuanced evaluation of your potential contributions as a future PA. Programs want a deeper understanding of who you are beyond your achievements and qualifications. The Life Experiences essay invites them to empathize with your challenges, celebrate your triumphs, and understand the motivations driving your future endeavors.

By sharing specific anecdotes and insights, you’ll make your story compelling and memorable, which helps admissions committees see you as a well-rounded and thoughtful candidate. Remember to be authentic, and your Life Experiences essay can only add value to your application!

Well done on reaching the end of this article! Take a quick moment to acknowledge all of your dedication in putting together an exceptional CASPA application. 😀

That’s it for now! See you in my next article. As always, stay healthy and keep learning.

Phoebe Zhang

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Application Advice: How to Approach the Booth Essay

Starting your application here are five questions to ask yourself before drafting your essay..

• By EW Admissions FT Admissions
• July 16, 2024
• Share This Page

Alumni and students routinely describe applying to Chicago Booth as a life-changing decision. This is why we encourage candidates to use our application not only as a means of gaining admission, but also as an opportunity for self-reflection and to prepare for this exciting next step. One of the best ways to communicate your MBA motivations and connection to Booth is through the essay portion of the application. The essay prompts for this cycle are as follows:

Part-Time MBA Program:

• Why are you seeking an MBA from Chicago Booth, and why is Chicago Booth's Evening MBA or Weekend MBA your program of choice? (maximum 400 words)
• Optional Essay: If there is any important information relevant to your candidacy you were unable to address elsewhere in the application, please share that information here. (maximum 500 words)

Full-Time MBA Program:

• How will the Booth MBA help you achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA career goals? (250-word minimum)
• An MBA is as much about personal growth as it is about professional development. In addition to sharing your experience and goals in terms of career, we’d like to learn more about you outside of work. Use this opportunity to tell us something about who you are. (250-word minimum)

Before starting your application and writing your essay, here are five questions we suggest you ask yourself:

• What inspired me to pursue an MBA? Take time to reflect on your personal and professional experiences, relationships, and goals. Did you know you wanted to pursue an MBA during your prior educational training? Is there a family member, friend, mentor, or professional colleague who influenced you to pursue an MBA? Are you looking to better understand your industry, develop leadership skills, or improve your career? There is no right or wrong answer, we just want to understand why an MBA is important to you at this stage in your life.
• What do I hope to accomplish professionally? There are innumerable ways our students and graduates use an MBA to transform their careers. Whether it's a job promotion or a career pivot, a Chicago Booth MBA will open doors that can change the trajectory of your career and influence your professional goals. Have a clear plan for what immediate and future success might look like for you. Take time to assess where you’ve been, where you are now, and where you want to be. Think deeply about how a Booth MBA can fill any gaps and help get you there.
• How will I apply what I learn in and out of the classroom to my current or future role? The Chicago Booth MBA experience will provide you with the space to learn frameworks you can directly apply to your current role (for Part-Time students) or future role (for Full-Time students). The skills you develop at Booth continue to be one of the biggest returns on investment Booth students rave about. With the instant impact a Booth MBA can have on your career, we encourage you to be clear about the MBA experiences, resources, and relationships that will help you meet your desired career goals.
• How will the collaborative culture at Booth be a part of my experience? Boothies are well-known to help one another. Whether it's through referrals for new opportunities, collaboration on group projects, or providing the confidence to embrace new challenges, support is at the heart of our culture. Consider how you can give back to the community by leveraging your unique strengths and skills to contribute and help others, ultimately creating a cycle of support that extends well beyond graduation. Let us know how these values resonate with the MBA experience you seek.
• How can I show my true self? Be honest. Share your experiences, thoughts, and emotions truthfully. Admissions directors appreciate authenticity and value your unique perspective. The optional essay provides a great platform to reflect on your personal experiences, challenges you've faced, and how they've influenced your growth.

Whenever you decide to apply, we wish you the best of luck! Looking for more application tips? Check out more application advice  from Boothies and Admissions. We’re also hosting events ( Full-Time ; Part-Time ) throughout the summer, where you can get your questions answered in real time. We wish you the best of luck with your application!

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Life Changing Experience — 500 Words about My Life Experience: How Life Experiences Shape Us

500 Words About My Life Experience: How Life Experiences Shape Us

• Categories: Life Changing Experience Personal Experience

About this sample

Words: 490 |

Updated: 19 June, 2024

Words: 490 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Adolescence, reflection and conclusion.

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• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life

500 Words Essay On Memorable Day of My Life

We have different types of days in our lives, some are ordinary while some are special. There are some days that get etched in our memories forever. Likewise, I also have a memorable day of my life that is very dear to me. The memories of this day are engraved in my heart and will remain so forever.

My Birthday- Memorable Day of My Life

My tenth birthday is the most memorable day of my life. It is a day I can never forget and I consider it to be the best birthday yet. The day started just like any other normal day. However, as it kept progressing, a lot of exciting things began to happen.

I woke up very early on my birthday because I had to dress up in casual clothes for school . The day before, all my candies were ready that I would distribute in the classroom.

My mother prepared my favourite breakfast and gave me a big chocolate bar for lunch as well. I went to school and the whole class sang for me and congratulated me. It was the turn to distribute sweets.

My best friend and I went to all the teachers to distribute toffees and we had a great time there. Moreover, it was an incredible feeling. My friends were all singing for me and eager to come to my birthday party later in the evening.

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My Birthday Party

The birthday at my school was memorable but the birthday party at my home made the day even more memorable. Also, my mother invited all my friends from school and the colony to the party.

I received so many presents and we played a lot of games. We played games like musical chairs, tag, egg-and-spoon races, and more. There were so many songs playing so everyone did a special dance too.

The highlight of my birthday party was definitely my huge birthday cake. As I love superheroes, my mother got the cake customized with the superhero theme. It was very tasty too and in my favourite flavour.

I spent a lot of time with my family and friends that day. Everyone liked the return gifts as well and went home with a big smile on their faces.

Conclusion of Essay on Memorable Day of My Life

Therefore, my tenth birthday is the most memorable day of my life. It has given me so many happy memories that will remain with me forever. That day makes me feel blessed and lucky to have all those things in my life.

FAQ on Essay on Memorable Day of My Life

Question 1: What is the meaning of a memorable day?

Answer 1:   When we say memorable, we refer to something that we cannot forget easily or something that left us excited. A memorable day is a day that one can recall easily as it is engraved in the memory.

Question 2: What can be an example of a memorable day?

Answer 2: Some people consider their birthday to be the most memorable day. While some consider it a family trip too. Similarly, some people may find their school picnic or fete to be the most memorable day.

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My Life Experience - Free Essay Examples and Topic Ideas

Personally, I have always thought of heroes as people who go above and beyond to help others in a truly selfless way, often in the act of self-sacrifice. Joseph Campbell’s version of the hero, based on the pattern found in myths and folklore, seems to come from a very different understanding of the role (Winkler, M, 2012). Using Joseph’s model we are probably all heroes in some respect as the stages of the “hero’s journey” seems to be a summary of the human experience. We discover, learn, struggle, and adapt. As life goes on the struggles that we experience lead to the emergence of our better selves. I found the stages of “mundane world”, “the call to adventure”, “crossing the threshold”, “the path of trials”, and the “master of two worlds” to be extremely relatable to my own experience (Theherocc, 2011).

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My Life Experience Essay: How to Write a Perfect Paper

Writing a perfect paper is not as difficult as you may think. The key is to take your time and follow these guidelines, which will help you write the best possible essay.

• Read over the prompt carefully. This will give you an idea of what the professor wants from you.
• Write down any notes or ideas that come to mind while reading, but don’t worry about organizing them yet.
• Organize the notes into paragraphs or sections based on how they relate to each other and what you want to say in your essay—not necessarily based on how they came about in your brain!
• Write a rough draft of whatever comes up next in your mind after completing each section or paragraph (you can always change it later!). This helps get all of your ideas out onto paper so you don’t forget anything important!
• When finished with this step, read through your rough draft again and make sure everything makes sense logically: Do all of the paragraphs flow well together? Did I use too many quotes from others’ works? Are there any instances where my argument could have been stronger? Make changes accordingly!

Main 4 part of Life Experience

What is Life Experience?

Life experience is a term you might hear when talking about the benefits of having lived life. It’s not just things you learned in school or on the job, but also things you’ve experienced firsthand—the good, the bad and the ugly.

Life experience can be used to describe someone who has lived through a lot and has a lot of knowledge to share. It can also be used to describe someone who knows how to do something because they’ve done it before (like how we say “lifeguarding experience”).

It’s important to note that life experience isn’t just about what happens to us—it’s also about what we choose for ourselves. When we choose our own path and make decisions about our lives, we gain valuable insight into ourselves and the world around us.

How to Choose Topic For My Life Experience Essay?

The topic of your life experience essay should be something that is relevant to you and your life. It should be something that has a personal meaning. It should be something that you can relate to. You should be able to explain why the topic is important to you, and how it relates to who you are as a person. The point of this essay is to show how your experiences have shaped who you are today, so choose a topic that highlights some aspect of yourself that others might not know about already.

The key here is finding a topic that will help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your own values, beliefs, and experiences. This will allow for more depth in your writing, which will make for a more compelling final product.

Overall experience of life

How to Structure a My Life Experience Essay

A My Life Experience Essay is a form of personal narrative that can be used to describe an event or series of events in your life. The structure of the essay will vary depending on what you’re writing about and how long it takes place over, but there are several standard elements that you should always include in your essay:

-Introduction: This is where you introduce the topic of your essay. You should explain why this event was significant to you and how it shaped your life up until now.

-Body Paragraphs: These paragraphs will provide more details about the events in question. They should be organized chronologically, so start with the first thing that happened and then go on to explain everything else that occurred afterwards in chronological order (e.g., “First thing happened, then this happened, then this…”).

-Conclusion: Here’s where you wrap things up by summarizing what happened during those events and how they’ve affected your life today.

Tips for Writing a Personal Essay

When you’re ready to write a personal essay, it’s important to get started on the right foot. Here are 5 tips for writing a personal essay that will help you create something that will stand out from the crowd:

• Start with a hook. You want your reader to get invested in your story right away, so make sure you have some kind of opening line that will pique their interest and make them want to keep reading. This can be as simple as describing an interesting experience or situation, or it could be more complex, like laying out a question for your reader to answer as they read on.
• Don’t be afraid to get personal! Personal essays thrive on emotion and honesty—if you’re not feeling something while writing, chances are good that your reader won’t either. Make sure that whatever you’re writing about comes from a real place in your life and connects with what readers might relate to themselves.
• Don’t be afraid of conflict! A lot of people shy away from writing about hard times because they don’t want to seem whiney or self-indulgent—but conflict is what makes stories interesting! If there were no obstacles in the way between where we are right now and where we want.

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Attending a Black Boarding School Changed the Course of My Life. They Need to be Preserved.

After I got kicked out of Westchester High School in Los Angeles in 10th grade, my dad didn't ask me if I wanted to go to the Piney Woods School. Before I knew it, my bags were packed for me and I was on a plane to Mississippi.

When I first arrived, I was overwhelmed by the amount of trees on Highway 49 South. They towered over me, creating a tunnel that seemed like there was only one way in and no way out. Prior to learning about the Piney Woods School, Mississippi merely existed in my head as a mythical place where bad things happened a long time ago.

Though I was skeptical on that bus ride, I'd soon learn that Piney Woods was a brilliant light beaming through the darkness of the state. Sitting on 2,000 acres that included a 500-acre farm, seven lakes, and more than a dozen residences for staff and students at the time I attended, the Piney Woods School is a historically Black prep school for grades nine to 12 where about 200 students live, learn, and grow together. It exists because, in 1909, Dr. Lawrence C. Jones risked his life to educate the illiterate in Mississippi. Through the years, Piney Woods transformed into a space that not only taught students how to read, but also instilled practical skills like carpentry, cultivating crops, and music theory. And, like other historically Black boarding schools — there are four in total in America today — it has given Black students a sense of family .

My father, a Pan Africanist and Black Panther militant, wanted Piney Woods to get my head right and teach me how to be a productive scholar. Our tiny class numbers and strict silent study hours from 6 to 9 p.m. drew him in. If my dad didn't make that sacrifice to send me to Piney Woods, I don't think I would have graduated on time in 2017 or have received a full-ride scholarship to the University of Mississippi. If Piney Woods didn't exist, I'd be a street hustler like my childhood friends back home in South Central LA, or maybe living with my family in Senegal, where my parents also threatened to send me.

Sloan Baptiste started working at the Marcus Garvey School, a historically Black private school in Los Angeles, for similar reasons: he saw the value of Black children being taught by Black educators. "We are allowing people who have a history of being systematically racist to teach us, and it crushes the self-esteem of the student," he says of US public schools.

Kierre Barnett Sr., similarly, is a product of the public-school system, having worked in the Los Angeles Unified School District. After witnessing teachers and parents' lack of commitment to students, he did not want the same for his son, Kierre Barnett Jr., who's now a sixth-grader at the Marcus Garvey School. He says his son is "living on good time because we're in a controlled environment, and that's with the help of Marcus Garvey."

It was the first time in my life that I saw so many girls wearing their natural hair textures proudly.

In addition to upholding the highest standards of academic performance, these autonomous educational and cultural institutions nurture our emotional and physical changes. In my case, the South taught me how to love my natural phenotype. During my first few weekends at Piney Woods, I remember the girls in my dorm asked me if my hair was natural . I stood up there with my press and curl and answered, "Yes." One girl said, "Girl, you are not natural because your hair has heat in it. That's not natural." To me, "natural" meant perm or no perm, not straight versus kinks.

The girls taught me about Bantu knots , two-strand twists , and the loc method . It was the first time in my life that I saw so many girls wearing natural hair textures proudly. It wasn't an act of pride; it was just normal. When I went home to Los Angeles that summer, I kept my fro and it didn't feel strange. It felt natural.

At Piney Woods, discipline began in our hands — our concentration was narrowed with lengthy academic and work days and unique punishments to maintain order. Yannick Lowery, a 2004 Piney Woods School graduate and artist, remembers being sent home for sneaking into a girls' dorm as a sophomore. He had to make the choice of getting paddled or sent home. Contrary to common beliefs about boarding schools, Piney Woods was not the place for misbehaving children. After spending six months at a public school in Chicago, he was determined to get back. Lowery felt disoriented in Chicago, and missed his campus family and the Kappa League brotherhood.

As Lowery recalls, most students had a job — he worked in the historic Mary Mac dorm and the laundromat, while I was a student ambassador and an administrative assistant to the president's office (one of the "good" jobs). We had to say "yes ma'am" and "sir," or we'd get written up. Respect and manners were a big part of the Piney Woods standard that I carry with me to this day. Some people laugh at me and think I've spent too much time in Mississippi. But I got my first job at 16 because when I unintentionally said "yes ma'am" to a lady, she was so impressed that she offered me the job on the spot.

Piney Woods taught me about Jesus, how to network, how to live amongst other girls, and how to speak in front of a public audience. Feeling deeply that the school had changed my life, I could never understand why it wasn't famous like Howard University. There were always whispers about the possibility of Piney Woods shutting down due to lack of teachers, lack of funding, and the fact that the buildings were deteriorating. It's amazing what they were able to shake from the little resources we had.

For children whose parents are unable to be fully present due to illness, financial hardship, or incarceration, the survival of these boarding schools is vital. My family initially sent me to Piney Woods to set my behavior straight. But when my daddy passed away and my blind mother became solely responsible for raising my younger brother, she also sent him to Piney Woods so he could be raised with other boys and by men who could teach him work ethic and how to be a man. I intend on sending my 5-year-old daughter to Piney Woods to continue the tradition and I pray that it still exists when the time comes.

These days, I struggle in the real world because Nashville, TN, where I currently reside, does not reflect the sheltered realities of the place where I was allowed to build and maintain my dignity. But I dream of a future world similar to Piney Woods, where we have slow mornings to hold hands and sing our gratitude to the Divine Creator of all things; where we share resources with our neighbors in need like we did in the dorms; where we learn from each other's backgrounds instead of it being the thing that separates us.

Nabou Ramu , born Seynabou Clark, is an Afrocentric journalist who covers all things art, culture, and business. In addition to PS, her words are recorded in Essence GU, KBLA Talk 1580, the USA Today Network, and Blavity.

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I learned my husband has cancer while training for the Olympics. Now his battle is my motivation

Getting to Paris has been special, but different from past Olympics I’ve competed in, since my husband, Pat, has been fighting cancer this entire year. I’ve talked about how Pat’s journey has motivated me — he was diagnosed with a rare, stage 4 lung cancer at age 30 — but what most people don’t know is how it’s impacted our entire team. I’m personally going through this with him, but my team has been going through it, too — both as teammates and as friends.

Pat had a collegiate career within our sport so he knows what’s going on. I see the admiration my teammates have for him, and they see the passion and excitement he has for water polo. He gave an inspirational talk to our team, and I think he has a lot to do with the way we’ve been playing, fighting and competing so far in Paris. My teammates have said that if Pat’s fighting cancer, they can swim another lap, or work even a little harder. When they make comments like that, it makes it worth it — being here. Although sport is amazing, when life throws something at you like a cancer diagnosis, it all seems a little bit less important. But we’re all inspired by him, and I’m happy he’s a part of our process. Now that we’ve made it here, it’s time to play for him, and to show the world the work that this team’s put in, and to prove to myself that I can do hard things. 

I got the chance to show my husband around the Olympic Village . I wanted to take him because living there is so unique and unless you’re on an Olympic team, you don’t see that. My favorite part is the apartments where you live with other Team USA athletes. It’s consistent with past Olympics, where you get to be with top athletes from your country in the same building, crossing paths and connecting. For me, the respect that other athletes show you is the coolest thing ever. And when you step outside your Team USA building, then you’re surrounded by athletes from every country competing in so many different sports, all in one area. Not everyone speaks the same language, but we all made it here — to the Olympic Games. The first question people ask each other is, “Hey, you want to trade a pin?” And then, “What sport are you?”

Just that simple exchange connects the world in so many ways. My coach talks about how the Olympics are a great display of world peace because everyone’s in the same area getting along and being inspired by each other. But at the same time, we’re competing against each other. It’s cool to see the teams you play against, but I’m happy I don’t have to see them all the time. 

There’s a lot of energy in the village — you can feel the hype from the other athletes even before the opening ceremony . But we have a sports psychologist who does a good job of keeping our minds in the right place. If you let the expectations or that external energy get too big, they can consume you and not let you play your game the way that you know how to play it. We remind ourselves all the time that we’ve been playing water polo since we were kids and it’s no different just because we’re at the Olympics. We know what we need to do and just need to go out there and do it. We want to win a gold medal. But we can’t let that energy get to us and take us off our game. 

For me, to keep my mind in the right place, I tell myself that this is just another game of water polo, and I know how to play. I’ve seen teams totally implode or get consumed by the pressure. Everyone’s out here to win, and you can’t go in with any expectations. That’s just the reality. 

I’ve experienced the Olympic Village in Rio and Tokyo, but it can still feel chaotic. In the dining hall , there are so many people and so much going on, but our team pretty much hangs out together so it’s not as overwhelming. But I feel for the new people doing this for the first time. It can be a lot to take in and get used to the first couple days. 

Speaking of the dining hall, have you heard about the chocolate muffins ? They are really good. Like really good. Everyone’s eating them for dessert or just for a treat. It’s been fun to watch parts of the experience take off on social media, too. There was a Norwegian swimmer who posted TikToks about his chocolate muffin obsession . And my teammate created a funny TikTok about the Olympic pin trading game, because that’s her obsession. As for me, I’m just focused on Pat and playing the game. That said, the chocolate muffins are pretty bomb. And I do have a favorite village coffee shop that prints photos from your phone on your coffee foam. Whether it’s a photo of your dog or the Eiffel Tower, anything goes. Pat and I had our picture printed on our coffee, which was fun. Bike riding is new this year, but I don’t want to fall and hurt myself so I stick to walking. But there are people riding around near the river with a pretty view of the sunset, which is fun too. 

What’s surprised me the most so far at the Olympics is playing in different venues. For the quarterfinals, we were moved to a new, even bigger swimming venue, so it was an entirely new experience. It’s also been way louder than I expected in the venues, which makes it extremely hard to hear what your teammates are saying in the water. Luckily, I’ve been playing with them for years, so I’m able to figure it out. Whatever the environment is, that’s the environment, and we’ve just got to keep playing. 

Mostly, I’m grateful that Pat is doing well right now. It’s a bonus to even have him here moving around, going to events and enjoying himself more than we thought he would. When he goes through treatment, it can deplete him, but his energy’s been so high and excited, so that’s a win in itself. 

This interview has been edited.

Maddie Musselman is a water polo player for Team USA. Aubree Nichols is a Los Angeles-based writer who covers the science of beauty, wellness and mental health.

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Book a stay at this life-sized Polly Pocket Airbnb in Mass.

• Published: Aug. 07, 2024, 4:41 p.m.

• David Cifarelli | [email protected]

Polly Pocket fanatics have a chance to relive their childhood dreams in a big way this summer.

In honor of the toy’s 35th birthday, people can request to stay at a life-sized Airbnb modeled after Polly’s Slumber Party Fun compact.

The 42-foot-tall compact is located in Littleton, and people can request to book a one-night stay on either Sept. 12, 13 or 14. The cost of the stay is $89 per person and the compact can be rented for up to four guests.

“I can’t wait for you to visit and help celebrate my birthday in my most epic compact ever,” Polly said in an Airbnb blog post . “There’s adventure to be had from my closet full of nostalgic fashion fun to the surprises I’ve left hidden around the compact. The fun is endless!”

While staying at the nostalgic space, guests can get ready at Polly’s vanity, put on human-sized versions of Polly’s clothes, watch a movie while hanging out on Polly’s pullout couch and more.

Bookings for the Polly Pocket compact open at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21 and close at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 28.

Those who don’t get to stay at the house overnight can request to book a daytime “playdate” at the compact from Sept. 16 to Oct. 6. Bookings will open at the same time as the overnight stay.

Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Littleton.

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5 big exit lessons from fresh heritage’s founders.

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Natarcia and Gamal Codner, who co-founded Fresh Heritage

Imagine turning your thriving business into a golden ticket for a new life adventure. That's exactly what the founders of Fresh Heritage did, and their journey offers invaluable lessons for every business owner.

When the founders of Fresh Heritage, a popular beard grooming product brand for men of color, decided to sell their business in 2021, it wasn't just about the money. It was about embracing a new life chapter filled with family moments and future opportunities. With this article, we wanted to dive deeper into their decision-making process, valuation strategies, and the key lessons they learned along the way of selling their business.

Reasons for Selling

Natarcia Codner , her husband Gamal, and her brother-in-law Jamil decided to sell their e-commerce brand due to big life changes and business reasons. Natarcia, co-owner, and COO at the time, said the birth of their daughter and a challenging birthing experience made Gamal and her want to spend more time with family. Even though there was strong international demand, they realized they didn't know how to expand globally or sell on platforms like Amazon. They believed that working with someone experienced in these areas would help their customers better and grow their business.

Valuation of the Business

The team at Fresh Heritage decided to fairly value their business based on 4 critical metrics:

• Market Value : They looked at the prevailing market value for similar online beauty and personal care brands.
• EBITDA Margin : With a remarkable 46% EBITDA margin, their business showcased strong above-average profitability.
• Customer Metrics : Over 3,000 customers were on their subscription program, with a repeat customer rate exceeding 40%, indicating a healthy and predictable revenue stream.
• Growth Opportunities : The potential to expand into new marketing channels and international markets added significant value.

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Here is more data on the Top 6 Highest Value Businesses , including e-commerce.

Examples of Adding Value to a Company

Several value drivers significantly boosted their business sales price. The company’s 46% EBITDA margin showcased its robust profitability, while high repeat customer rates and a substantial subscription base demonstrated strong customer loyalty and predictable revenue.

Their beard oil product had garnered over 3,000 five-star reviews, establishing it as a top product in the industry. Additionally, their community engagement, with over 150,000 followers, provided a solid foundation for direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales.

Finally, there was a strong strategic fit for their buyer BRANDED. Although they had expertise in retail and Amazon, they sought to expand their DTC sales, which made the acquisition of Fresh Heritage particularly valuable.

Overcoming Buyer Concerns

The negotiation and sale process went smoothly, with BRANDED offering a fair market value without requiring price reductions. But one key concern was the location of their warehouse, which necessitated deciding whether to set up a team or relocate the business.

Ensuring compliance and maintaining up-to-date liability insurance and third-party product testing records were also crucial to address potential buyer concerns and facilitate a smooth transaction.

After-Exit Life and a New Masterpiece

After the sale, the founders experienced a mix of emotions but ultimately enjoyed their newfound freedom. Natarcia and her family invested time in renovating their dream home, spending quality time with their daughter, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

It’s crucial to develop a post-sale plan, knowing that many owners feel lost or depressed after selling a business. Here are 3 essential but ignored activities post-exit .

Six months later, they launched a consulting business, Codner & Co. , to help other e-commerce founders achieve similar success. This new venture allows them to leverage their experience and guide others through the challenges of growing and selling an online e-commerce business.

5 Lessons for Business Owners Looking to Exit

• Align Business Decisions with Personal Values : The founders prioritized family and recognized the importance of work-life balance in their decision to sell.
• Leverage Expertise for Growth : Partnering with an experienced buyer can provide the necessary skills and resources to expand into new markets and channels.
• Strong Financial Metrics Increase Value : High profit margins, customer loyalty, and positive product reviews significantly drives business value.
• Prepare Thoroughly for Sale : Ensuring compliance, up-to-date records, and understanding potential buyer concerns can facilitate a smoother sale process.
• Plan for Post-Sale Life : Consider how you will transition after the sale, whether it involves starting a new venture or enjoying more personal time.

Natarcia’s exit story showcases the importance of aligning business decisions with your personal goals, leveraging partnerships for growth, and preparing thoroughly for a successful business exit. Any small business owner can learn from her experiences to navigate their own big exit effectively.

Remember, your business is not just a job; it's an asset that can create incredible opportunities when managed thoughtfully.

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So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.