ENGL 1101/Journey to College

From Gerald R. Lucas


The objective of this assignment is to encourage students to reflect on their experiences and convey a compelling personal narrative about their journey to college. Through this essay, students will practice storytelling, descriptive writing, and basic essay structure.

Instructions

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Introduction: Begin your essay with an attention-grabbing introduction that sets the stage for your narrative. You may use an anecdote, a quote, or a vivid description to draw readers in.

Background: Provide some context about your life before college. Discuss your educational background, family, and any significant experiences or challenges that have influenced your decision to pursue higher education.

Decision to Attend College: Explain the reasons behind your decision to attend college. Was it always part of your plan, or did something specific inspire you to pursue higher education? Discuss your goals and aspirations related to your college journey.

Transition to College: Describe the process of transitioning to college life. Share your thoughts and feelings about leaving home, meeting new people, and adjusting to the academic environment.

Academic Experiences: Discuss your initial academic experiences in college. Reflect on any challenges or successes you encountered, as well as any surprises you faced.

Personal Growth: Reflect on how college has influenced your personal growth and development. Have you discovered new interests, skills, or perspectives? How have you evolved as a person since starting college?

Conclusion: Wrap up your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your journey to college and reflects on the overall impact it has had on your life.

Requirements

  • Length: 500-750 words; 1000 words maximum.
  • Use first-person perspective (“I”) since it’s a personal narrative.
  • Maintain a clear and coherent structure, with a beginning, middle, and end.
  • Use descriptive language to engage readers and create a vivid picture of your experiences.
  • Proofread and edit your essay for clarity, grammar, and spelling before submission.

Note: The essay should be centered on your personal experiences and emotions. However, you might explore broader themes or issues within their narratives, such as the value of education, overcoming obstacles, or the importance of self-discovery. Additionally, citations are not required for this esssay, though they are encouraged.