ENGL 102 - Composition II FORMAL WRITING ASSIGNMENT NO. 2: COLLEGE TRANSFER/SCHOLARSSHIP ESSAY What are you trying to accomplish in this assignment? You are writing a personal statement (which is a combination of a narrative essay) as if you are applying to a college as a transfer student, or you are applying for a college scholarship. The personal statement should be a comprehensive narrative essay that is based on a writing prompt or question. Your response could be based on significant aspects of your academic and personal history that includes academic achievements and educational choices. The quality of writing and depth of content both contribute toward a meaningful and relevant personal statement. Choose one of the following prompts, then write an essay of 500-600 words (no less-no more) that reflects your personal statement: 1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. 2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? 3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? 4. Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma - anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution. 5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. 6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more? 7. What is your intended major? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had in the field such as volunteer work, internships and employment, participation in student organizations and activities and what you have gained from your involvement. Here is another essay prompt for a college scholarship through the Hudson Valley Community College Foundation: Second Chance Foundation Scholarship Awarded to a student who has overcome tremendous personal obstacles in order to pursue an education. Supplemental Questions 1.Please provide at least one letter of recommendation from someone who knows you well and can speak to your academic abilities and potential for success. 2.Please provide a statement detailing the personal obstacles you have overcome in your effort to pursue an education.