school location essay

Essay on My School for Students and Children

500+ words essay on my school.

Education is an essential part of our lives. We are nothing without knowledge, and education is what separates us from others. The main step to acquiring education is enrolling oneself in a school. School serves as the first learning place for most of the people. Similarly, it is the first spark in receiving an education. In this essay on my school, I will tell you why I love my school and what my school has taught me.

We have all been to school and we have loved each and every moment we have spent over there as those were the building blocks of our lives. A school is a place where students are taught the fundamentals of life, as well as how to grow and survive in life. It instils in us values and principles that serve as the foundation for a child’s development.

My school is my second home where I spend most of my time. Above all, it gives me a platform to do better in life and also builds my personality. I feel blessed to study in one of the most prestigious and esteemed schools in the city. In addition, my school has a lot of assets which makes me feel fortunate to be a part of it. Let us look at the essay on my school written below.

Why I Love My School?

From kindergarten through primary and secondary school, and subsequently, to faculty, school is a place where we always study, grow, and establish ourselves, socialize, be a friend, help others, and love and be loved. School is a buddy that will accompany us from the beginning of our youth till the conclusion of our lives. At school, we share all of our pleasures and sorrows, and we constantly rely on one another. This is made possible through the friendships we share. They assist us in effortlessly overcoming difficulties, sharing moments of enjoyment together, and looking forward to new paths.

My school strikes the perfect balance between modern education and vintage architecture. The vintage buildings of my school never fail to mesmerize me with their glorious beauty. However, their vintage architecture does not mean it is outdated, as it is well-equipped with all the contemporary gadgets. I see my school as a lighthouse of education bestowing knowledge as well as ethical conduct upon us.

Teachers have the power to make or break a school. The teaching staff is regarded as the foundation of any educational society. It is their efforts to help kids learn and understand things that instil good habits and values in their students. While some concepts are simple to grasp, others necessitate the use of a skilled teacher to drive the home the idea with each pupil.

In contrast to other schools, my school does not solely focus on academic performance. In other words, it emphasizes on the overall development of their students. Along with our academics, extra-curricular activities are also organized at our school. This is one of the main reasons why I love my school as it does not measure everyone on the same scale. Our hardworking staff gives time to each child to grow at their own pace which instils confidence in them. My school has all the facilities of a library , computer room, playground, basketball court and more, to ensure we have it all at our disposal.

For me, my school is more than simply an educational institution; it is also my second family, which I established during my childhood. A family of wonderful friends, outstanding teachers, and fond school memories. I adore my school because it is where I learn how to be a good citizen and how to reach my goals. School is the only place where we make friends without judging them. We feel comfortable spending time with those close friends no matter what the situation.

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What has My School Taught Me?

If someone asked me what I have learned from my school, I won’t be able to answer it in one sentence. For the lessons are irreplaceable and I can never be thankful enough for them. I learned to share because of my school. The power of sharing and sympathy was taught to me by my school. I learned how to be considerate towards animals and it is also one of the main reasons why I adopted a pet.

School is an excellent place to learn how to be an adult before entering the real world. Those abilities pay dividends whether you choose to be the bigger person in an argument or simply complete your domestic tasks. When you open your mind to new ideas, you gain a lot of influence in society. Picking up unexpected hobbies on your own will teach you more about what you like to do than simply completing things for a grade.

A school is a place where I developed my artistic skills which were further enhanced by my teachers. Subsequently, it led me to participate in inter-school completions through which I earned various awards. Most importantly, my school taught me how to face failures with grace and never give up on my ambitions, no matter what happens.

Schools also offer a variety of extracurricular activities such as Scouts and Guides, sports, N.C.C., skating, school band, acting, dancing, singing, and so on. Our principal also used to give us a short lecture every day for about 10 minutes about etiquette, character development, moral education, respecting others, and gaining excellent values. As a result, I can claim that what I am today is solely due to my school, which is the best institution in my opinion.

Teamwork is an important ability that schools teach. Schools are frequently the first places where youngsters have the opportunity to collaborate with children who are different from them. Collaboration is essential for the team and individual success. Students are taught that the success of a team depends on each individual component functioning together.

To sum it up, studying in one of the respected schools has helped me a lot personally. I will always be indebted to my school for shaping my personality and teaching me invaluable lessons. It has given me friends for life and teachers that I will always look up to. I aspire to carry on the values imbibed by my school to do well in life and make it proud.

Here is the list of Top Schools in India! Does Your School Tops the List?

FAQs on School

Q.1 Why must every child go to school?

A.1 It is essential for every child to go to school as the school teaches us lessons that cannot be acquired anywhere else. The experience is one a kind and along with education, we learn many other things like socializing, extra-curricular activities and more.

Q.2 What does school teach us?

A.2 School teaches us some of the great things like first of all, it gives us basic education. It teaches us to develop our skills like art, dance, public speaking and more. Most importantly, it teaches us discipline.

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Essay on My School

Here we have shared the Essay on My School in detail so you can use it in your exam or assignment of 150, 250, 400, 500, or 1000 words.

You can use this Essay on My School in any assignment or project whether you are in school (class 10th or 12th), college, or preparing for answer writing in competitive exams. 

Topics covered in this article.

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Essay on My School in 150-300 words

My school is a place that holds a special significance in my life. It is not just a building with classrooms, but a nurturing environment where I have spent some of the most formative years of my life. My school is a place where I have gained knowledge, formed lifelong friendships, and developed essential skills for my future.

The infrastructure of my school is impressive, with well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and a library. It provides a conducive learning environment where teachers impart knowledge with dedication and passion. The school also offers extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural events, which have played a crucial role in my overall development.

What makes my school truly special is its sense of community and inclusivity. The teachers and staff foster a supportive and nurturing atmosphere, encouraging students to express themselves, share their ideas, and embrace diversity. The friendships I have formed in my school have been invaluable, providing me with a sense of belonging and support.

My school has not only focused on academic excellence but also on character building. It instills values such as discipline, respect, and empathy. The school encourages us to participate in social service activities and initiatives that contribute to the betterment of society.

In conclusion, my school holds a significant place in my heart. It has provided me with a platform to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. The knowledge, skills, and experiences gained from my school will continue to shape my future endeavors. I am grateful for the opportunities, guidance, and memories that my school has bestowed upon me.

Essay on My School in 350-450 words

My school is not just a building with classrooms and desks; it is a place that has shaped me into the person I am today. It is a community of educators, students, and staff who work together to create a nurturing environment for learning and personal growth.

The infrastructure of my school is impressive, with well-maintained classrooms, science and computer laboratories, a library, and sports facilities. The classrooms are equipped with modern teaching aids and technology, providing an interactive and engaging learning experience. The school library is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering a wide range of books, magazines, and resources that have expanded my horizons and fueled my curiosity.

However, it is the people in my school who make it truly special. The teachers are not just educators but mentors who are passionate about their subjects and dedicated to imparting knowledge. They go beyond textbooks, encouraging critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning. Their guidance and support have nurtured my intellectual curiosity and shaped my academic journey.

Moreover, my school emphasizes holistic development by providing opportunities for extracurricular activities. From sports to arts, music to drama, there is something for everyone. These activities have allowed me to explore my talents, develop new skills, and build confidence. The annual school events, such as cultural fests and sports meets, bring the entire school community together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and school spirit.

What sets my school apart is its strong sense of community and inclusivity. Students from diverse backgrounds come together, fostering an environment of respect, empathy, and acceptance. The school encourages participation in community service projects, instilling values of compassion and social responsibility. Through these initiatives, I have developed a sense of empathy and a desire to make a positive impact on the world around me.

In addition to academic and extracurricular pursuits, my school also prioritizes character development. It promotes values such as integrity, discipline, and teamwork. Through various initiatives, including leadership programs and mentoring, my school equips students with essential life skills that go beyond the classroom.

In conclusion, my school is not just a physical space; it is a vibrant community that has played a significant role in my personal and academic growth. The infrastructure, dedicated teachers, diverse opportunities, and inclusive environment have provided me with a solid foundation for success. The memories, friendships, and experiences gained from my school will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the invaluable lessons and support that my school has provided me with.

Essay on My School in 500-1000 words

Title: My School – A Journey of Learning, Growth, and Community

Introduction :

My school is more than just a physical institution; it is a place that has played a pivotal role in shaping my identity, fostering my love for learning, and providing me with a strong foundation for personal and academic growth. It is a vibrant community where dedicated educators, supportive staff, and fellow students come together to create an environment conducive to learning, exploration, and holistic development. In this essay, I will take you on a journey through my school, highlighting its infrastructure, curriculum, extracurricular activities, and the sense of community that makes it truly special.

Infrastructure and Facilities

The infrastructure of my school is impressive, designed to cater to the diverse needs of students. The well-maintained classrooms are spacious and equipped with modern teaching aids, including smart boards and multimedia projectors, enabling interactive and engaging learning experiences. The science and computer laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, providing hands-on opportunities to explore and experiment. The school library is a haven of knowledge, with an extensive collection of books, magazines, and digital resources that have expanded my horizons and deepened my love for reading.

In addition to academic facilities, my school also boasts well-maintained sports facilities, including a sports ground, basketball court, and indoor sports arena. These facilities provide ample opportunities for students to engage in physical activities, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Dedicated Educators and Supportive Staff

The heart of my school lies in its dedicated and passionate educators who go above and beyond their role as teachers. They serve as mentors, guiding us on our educational journey and nurturing our intellectual curiosity. Their commitment to their subjects, innovative teaching methods, and willingness to support and encourage students have had a profound impact on my love for learning. The teachers create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment, where each student feels valued and respected.

The supportive staff, including administrative personnel, librarians, and maintenance staff, play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the school. Their dedication and commitment contribute to the overall positive atmosphere of the school, creating a sense of unity and collaboration.

Curriculum and Holistic Development

My school offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes both academic excellence and holistic development. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It goes beyond textbook knowledge, encouraging us to explore real-world applications of what we learn.

The school provides a well-structured timetable that balances academic subjects, including mathematics, science, languages, and social sciences, with opportunities for artistic expression, physical education, and personal development. This well-rounded approach ensures that students have a holistic educational experience and are exposed to a range of disciplines and perspectives.

Extracurricular Activities

My school recognizes the importance of extracurricular activities in nurturing talents, developing leadership skills, and promoting teamwork. The school offers a diverse range of activities, including sports, arts, music, dance, drama, and debate. These activities provide a platform for students to explore their passions, develop new skills, and showcase their talents.

Participating in extracurricular activities has not only broadened my horizons but also helped me build confidence, resilience, and a sense of discipline. Through sports, I have learned the value of teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. In the arts, I have discovered my creativity and developed an appreciation for various forms of expression.

Sense of Community

What sets my school apart is the strong sense of community and belonging that permeates every aspect of school life. The school fosters an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together, promoting mutual respect, understanding, and cultural appreciation. This sense of community has enabled me to develop meaningful friendships and connections that extend beyond the classroom.

The school organizes various events and celebrations, such as annual days, cultural festivals, and community service initiatives. These events bring the entire school community together, promoting camaraderie, teamwork, and a sense of pride in our school.

Conclusion :

My school is more than just a physical structure; it is a vibrant community where learning, growth, and friendship thrive. The infrastructure, dedicated educators, supportive staff, comprehensive curriculum, and wide range of extracurricular activities have provided me with a well-rounded education and countless opportunities for personal and academic development. The sense of community and belonging that permeates my school has created an environment where I feel valued, inspired, and motivated to reach my full potential. My school will always hold a special place in my heart, as it has nurtured my love for learning, shaped my character, and prepared me for a bright future.

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My School Essay in English (100, 200, 300, 500 words)

Table of Contents

My School Essay 100 Words

My school is a place where I get educated; learn new subjects under the guidance of trained and skilled teachers. I study at a school that is near my home. It is one of the best schools in my entire town. The management of my school believes that it isn’t only academic excellence that we should be after, but also the overall personality development and evolving into a good and useful human being.

The school has two playgrounds – one is a tennis court and the other one is a cricket ground. We also have a nice swimming pool and a canteen. It also has a beautiful garden where students relax and play during recess. Even in games, sports and tournaments, it has made much progress. My school has won many trophies, shields, and medals in many extra-curricular activities. In debates also, the students of my school secure good positions. It is considered to be one of the best schools in my locality.

My School Essay 200 Words

The school is called the educational institution which is designed to provide learning spaces and create an environment for the children where the teaching of the students is under the direction and guidance of the teachers.

My School is one of the best educational institutions where I get an education and make progress towards the goals of my life and make me capable of achieving them. Besides education, there are several significant roles that my school plays in my life. My school is performing well in all fields. It develops my physical and mental stamina, instills confidence, and

gives me tremendous opportunities to prove my skills and talents in different fields. In the academic field, it has made a mark. Its students secure top positions in the board examinations.

I go to school with my other friends. We study in our school in a great friendly environment. We reach school at a fixed time. As soon as we reach we line up to attend the assembly. Attending the school assembly is a wonderful experience. I enjoy for being first in a row in a school assembly. As soon as the assembly ends we rush to our respective classrooms. We take part in all school activities. One of my school fellows is the best singer and dancer. She has recently won the best singer award at the annual arts festival. Our school organizes all-important national events like Independence Day, teachers’ day, father’s day, etc. My school also gives every student abundant opportunities to take part in extracurricular activities like sports and music.

All of us are proud of being a part of it. I am fortunate enough to be a student at this school. I love and am proud of my school.

My School Essay 300 Words

An institution where higher education is taught is commonly called a school, University College, or University. Most countries have systems of formal education, which is sometimes compulsory. In these systems, Students progress through a series of schools. The names for these schools vary by country but generally include primary school for young children and secondary school for teenagers who have completed primary education.

My school is a place where I not only get educated but also get trained in other necessary competitive skills like sports, music, and dance. I am proud of my school because it provides us with all the basic facilities like a big playground, a central library, a big auditorium hall, a science lab, and a good computer lab. That is why my school is rated as one of the best schools in my entire area. My school has produced many great people in my country. It has a big and beautiful building that looks shiny from far away. I reach my target at a fixed time. I came to school with other friends of mine. We happily enter the schools with great confidence. We take part in a school assembly and then we move into our classrooms.

This all is done by a very efficient and well-trained teaching staff of my school. The best schools are those that make the students the best and the best school is made by the best teachers. We study under the guidance of the best teachers. My school has a dedicated teacher for all the subjects as well as extracurricular activities like music and sports. I consider my school as the best school because it supports and encourages every student to do their best and make progress. Fortunately, my school provides the best environment, the best teachers, and the best facilities.

Our Class teacher greets us daily and asks about us. He is quite a cool and kind man. He entertains us along with teaching his subject. We learn a lot of things like discipline, self-help, confidence, and cooperation here. As I enter my classroom I feel quite happy and relaxed.

My School Essay 500 Words

The place where children as the leaders of tomorrow study and where the future of the nation is shaped are called schools. Education is an essential weapon for tomorrow, so the good schools of today are important for the best future of a nation. Schools are the center of learning where we attend classes on various subjects, interact with the teachers, get our queries

answered, and appeared in exams. In my school, learning is more like a fun activity, because of the extra-talented teaching staff.

My school is a government primary school located on the outskirts of the city. Usually, when people think about a government school, they perceive it to be at an isolated location and have poor basic amenities and teaching facilities. But, despite being a government school, my school defies all such speculations. Teachers of my school are not only knowledgeable about the subjects they teach but also are skilled enough to teach through fun activities. For example, our physics teacher explains every concept by stating real-life examples that we could relate to. This way we not only understand the subject better. Moreover, not a moment I remember, when any teacher had ever replied rudely to any of the students. They always patiently listen and provide answers to all the queries posed to them. Learning at my school is fun and it is made possible only because of the teachers.

My school is very important in my life, in a way even more than my family. My family gives me love, care, and affection, and provides for all my other essential needs. But, all of this isn’t enough to make me a good human being and succeed in life.  Favorably, I am lucky enough to be enrolled in a prestigious school, and gaining a wonderful education, looking forward to realizing my dreams one day. The most necessary for success in life is education, and only my school provides it to me. Without my school and the education that it gives, I would be like a confused and wandering soul, almost aimless in life.

My school helps with my educational and overall personality development. It imparts education through classes, tests, and exams to teach me how to conduct myself confidently. It just feels so great to be in my school and be a part of everyday activities, be it lectures, sports, or Something else. While in school, I always feel happy, confident, enthusiastic, and loved. I make friends at school, those whom I will never forget and will always love them. My family supports my materialistic needs, but school is the place where my actual physical, social, and mental development takes place.  I know that every question that crosses my mind will be answered by my teachers. I also know that my school friends will always be at my side whenever I need them to be. As much as the studies, my school also stresses much on These activities as the management thinks that extracurricular activities are very essential for our overall personality development. My school provides dedicated teachers and staff for each extracurricular activity. We have a big sports ground with kits for all the major sports; a covered auditorium for dance and music and a separate basketball court.

The role my school plays in my personality development is fantastic. It not only imparts education in me but also teaches me how to conduct myself and how to behave decently and properly. I get trained in all the other necessary skills of life, like how to keep calm in challenging situations and help others as well. My school teaches me to be a good and evolved human being, to stay composed and progressive always. It also teaches me to be kind and generous to others and not differentiate them based on their caste, religion, ethnicity, or other divisions. These are some of the most essential personality traits that my school imparts to me, something that I will always be thankful for. Every time I think of my school, I think of it as a temple of education. A temple, where my soul meets education, making my life more meaningful and useful to society and the nation as well. It is a place where my aspirations get a wing and I get the strength and confidence to realize them. No other place in the entire world could replace my school and the role that it plays in my life. I will always be thankful to my friends, teachers, and the staff of my school, for making it such a comfortable and Educational place of learning.

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Why This College Essay Guide + Examples

The purpose of the “Why us?” or “Why this college” essay is to demonstrate—through specific details and examples—why you’re a great match for a particular school. In some cases, the “Why us?” essay is an important way to demonstrate interest in a particular college.

The “Why this college?” essay, and variations of this prompt, also happens to be one of the most popular supplemental essay questions asked of students on the college application. 

Here are just a few schools that have (or recently required) this prompt:

Bowdoin College

Brown University

Colorado College

Columbia University

Cornell University

Duke University

New York University (NYU)

Northwestern University

Oberlin College

Swarthmore College

Tufts University

University of Michigan

University of Pennsylvania

University of Southern California

And there are dozens of other colleges that ask this question as well.

This guide will provide a step-by-step strategy and tons of “Why this college?” (sometimes called “Why us?”)  essay examples to help you stand out on your essay and even help you decide what kind of school you want to go to . 

We'll start by covering what NOT to do, what kinds of details you SHOULD include in your essay, and where to find the best resources for researching your “Why this college?” essay.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Step 1: How to Find All the Resources You Need to Learn about a Particular School

The Top Secret Three-Word Trick to Finding Specific Info for Your “Why this College” Essay

• Step 2: Organize Your Research
• Step 3: Decide on Your Approach: Approach #1: The Basic, Solid "Why this College" Essay That Includes a Bunch of Reasons Approach #2: The “3-5 Unique Reasons” Strategy Approach #3: The “One Value” Strategy

Six Common Mistakes Students Make on the “Why this College” Essay

Mistake #1: Writing about the school's size, location, reputation, weather, or ranking.

Why shouldn’t you do this? Because that's what many other students are writing about and you don’t want to blend in. Take a hint from Emory University, whose “Why us?” prompt used to read:

Many students decide to apply to Emory University based on our size, location, reputation, and yes, the weather. Besides these valid reasons as a possible college choice, why is Emory University a particularly good match for you?

Or check out Georgia Tech’s old prompt:

Beyond rankings, location, and athletics, why are you interested in attending Georgia Tech? 

Clearly their admissions readers are tired of reading about those things.

Mistake #2: Simply using emotional language to demonstrate fit.

Telling the school that you walked onto campus and “it just felt right” is a) something else a lot of students say and b) doesn’t the reader understand how are a good match for the school. And, for that matter, neither does the statement, “I can see myself rooting for the Wildcats at MetLife Stadium on Sundays.”

Mistake #3: Screwing up the mascot, stadium, team colors or names of any important people or places on campus

Why avoid this? It's the quickest way to show you're a sloppy researcher. In the example above, the Wildcats play neither at MetLife Stadium nor on Sundays. Also, the “I can see myself in [insert school colors here]” is a cliché of the "Why this College" essay. Avoid it too.

Mistake #4: Parroting the brochures or website language . 

It could be that the person reading your essay and evaluating your application actually wrote the words you’re copying and pasting.

“On the one hand, it shows that a student has actually researched us and I appreciate that,” says Brian Liechti of Warren Wilson College. “On the other, as one of those people who wrote the words you’re copying, I’d rather see evidence of how what I wrote resonated with you—do we share values? What stood out or spoke to you in that brochure or on that web page? That's what I really want to see.”

Mistake #5: Describing traditions the school is well-known for.

In fact, find out the school's common traditions (like throwing toast on the field at Penn, for example, or painting the rock at Northwestern) and then don't write about those things. Why? Everyone and their brother already has. How do you learn these? Google the name of the school and the word “traditions.” 

Mistake #6: Thinking of this as only a "Why them" essay.

The school knows it’s awesome. “You probably don’t need to tell us about the beautiful Nott Memorial,” says Nicole Buenzli of Union College. “I pass the Nott every day, it's on every brochure we create, and we all know it has 16 sides!”

Instead, think of this as a "Why we are perfect for each other" essay. 

In fact, imagine you're on a date and the person sitting across from you leans in to ask, "So, why do you like me?" Don’t just say, "Because you're hot," or “My auntie says a relationship with you will improve my job prospects.” When it comes to the “us” in “Why us?” think of it this way:

“Us” ≠ the college you’re applying to

“Us” = the school + you

In order to prove you and the school are destined to be together, make connections between the two of you.

How to Write A “Why this College” Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step #1: Do your research. 

How? Like this:

How to Find All the Resources You Need to Learn about a Particular School

“Click deep” on the school’s website. Spend serious time on the school’s online catalogue/course schedule and look for not only majors and minors , but also specific programs, courses, activities, and opportunities that set this school apart from all the others you’re applying to. 

Read reviews from experts. Here are some good ones:

The Fiske Guide to Colleges (Edward B. Fiske)

Colleges That Change Lives (Loren Pope)

The Best 376 Colleges (Princeton Review)

Read student reviews . Students sometimes say things that experts don’t or won’t say. Both Niche.com and Unigo.com have real student reviews. Read a bunch so you can get a sense of the campus vibe and aren’t skewed by just 1-2 opinions.

I particularly like the Unigo question, “What’s the stereotype of the students at your school?” and “Is the stereotype true?” Note that if the “stereotype” comments contradict one another (one student says “hippie school,” another says “nerdy,” and another says “jocks and frat boys,” that could be a sign it’s actually a pretty diverse school).

Take real and virtual tours. It’s hard to really know a campus without seeing it. And if you can, do it. But if you can’t visit in person, check out:

www.campusreel.org

www.campustours.com

www.youniversitytv.com  

www.youtube.com

Tours on individual school websites

TIP: Take at least five online tours so you can compare schools. 

Contact the admissions office and, if possible, talk to your local rep.

Most colleges have particular representatives for particular regions of the country (and the world). You can talk to them. And they're really nice! A few reasons why this is a good idea:

It’s a fantastic way to find out about a school . In fact, there are people who get paid to answer your questions. (My best friend was one of them.) Don’t be afraid. They won’t be mad at you; they’ll be happy you asked.

Your conversation may help you write your essay . If you learn something meaningful on the call, you may be able to write in your essay, “When I spoke to so-and-so in the Admissions Office, she told me…” 

At some schools, the person you speak to on the phone may be the one who reads your application. And how cool will it be when they’re reading your app and they think, “Oh, I remember this student! They were so nice.”

Pro Tip: Definitely have a few specific questions in mind before you call and try not to ask about anything you could Google in five minutes.

Don't ask, for example, if the school has a Biology major (spoiler: it does!) Ask instead how easy it is for non-majors to take advanced musical theater classes or what sets their Engineering program apart from other schools’ (assuming you've already Googled these things and can’t find the answers).

Don't be afraid to make a connection and simply be a curious human. It’s a great way to engage with the world. Even if you’re doing something as specific as researching an essay about why you chose this college.

Get in touch with a current student.

Try putting the word out on social media: “Anyone know a current or former student at Purdue?” Ask that person for 15 minutes of their time. Then ask a short set of questions that you’ve prepared beforehand. Ideally these are questions that will help you write your “Why this College” essay and will be interesting, specific, and open-ended.

Don’t just ask, “So, what’s it like there?” (too general) or “Did you like it?” (close-ended question). Ask open-ended questions that will be fun for them to answer like: “What was the most mind-blowing class you took and why? What surprised you about [this particular] college? What do most people not know about [insert school]?”

The more interesting your questions are, the more interesting the answers will be, and the more you’ll show why you are interested in this college.

Find a syllabus. 

That’s it. Research high and low, search the deepest depths of Google (or better yet: ask someone who attends the school) and find a syllabus for a class you may take at that school. 

Why does this help? Imagine you’re trying to articulate why you’d take a certain class. What better way than to peruse the language the professor is using in the part of the syllabus that says “What I hope you will learn from this class”?

Take this course description, for example, excerpted from a syllabus by (and quoted with permission from) Dr. Frank Anderson at the University of Michigan: 

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of reproductive health, both in the United States and from a global perspective. The course will introduce students to cross-cutting themes including 1) historical discourses on reproductive health; 2) the social ecology of reproductive risks (e.g., gender, race, sexuality); 3) the relevance of physical anatomy to reproductive risks; 4) life course perspectives; 5) human rights frameworks; and 6) application to health behavior and health education assessments and interventions. Additional (more specific) topics in reproductive health will be addressed including maternal morbidity, contraceptive use, pregnancy, STI care, HIV, abortion care, and violence against women. Through a comparative look at reproductive health needs in a range of diverse social settings, we will critically examine the logic and impact of current domestic and international standards for reproductive health policy and practice.

You can show off your research skills by mentioning in your essay you found a syllabus:

“When I read Professor [X]’s syllabus for her Class in [Y], I was intrigued by the possibility of exploring [Z], in particular…” 

College Essay Guy’s “Why us?” Essay Research Chart 2.0

Here’s a viewable version of this chart for you to copy/download and edit on your own.

What you’re looking for as you research: Specific reasons that connect the school (i.e. “them”) AND your own interests and needs (i.e. “you”). Here’s a simple formula: 

A (school-related detail) + B (how this connects back to you) = a great “Why us?” sentence

Pro Tip: Remember the “Why this College” essay is another opportunity to share a few more of your skills/talents/interests/passions. So look back at your “ Everything I Want Colleges to Know About Me” List and ask yourself: are all these values/qualities somewhere else in my application? If not, where could I weave them into my “Why this College” essay?

Step #3: Decide on your approach to the essay.

Important: There is no “best” approach and students are accepted to wonderful schools each year with each of these strategies.

Here are a few options:

Approach #1: The Basic, Solid ‘Why this College’ Essay That Includes a Bunch of Reasons

How it works: Research a bunch of opportunities at the school and connect each one back to you in an organized way.

How many is “a bunch?” Try to find 10-15 reasons. While you may not ultimately name all the reasons in your final version, research this many will give you plenty to choose from when you start your draft.

What do I mean by “organized” way?

Here’s an outline for a basic, solid “Why this College” essay:

Clear thesis that names the academic area(s) you want to pursue and maybe charts the path of the essay

Main reason #1 and 3-4 specific details

Main reason #2 and 3-4 specific details

Main reason #3 and 3-4 specific details

An ending that maybe discusses what you’ll give back

Here’s an example of a basic, solid “Why this College” Essay that includes a bunch of reasons:

The Why Michigan “Why this College” Essay Example

Prompt: Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (500 word limit)

Mark Twain was a steamboat pilot. Agatha Christie was a nurse. Robert Frost was a light bulb filament changer. The best writers do not only write beautifully, but also integrate their personal experiences and knowledge outside the world of literature. By combining the study of literature , media and perhaps law , I believe the University of Michigan will provide the education necessary for me to evolve as a journalist. A journalist cannot reach the peak of his craft if his knowledge of literature and critical thinking skills are weak, which is why I’m excited to explore what the Department of English has to offer. I look forward to courses such as Academic Argumentation and Professional Writing, as I believe these will provide me with a firm basis in journalistic writing technique and improve my abilities to write analytically and develop well-supported arguments. Furthermore, the Professional Writing course will teach me how to write in a concise, straightforward style, a skill vital to a journalist. At The College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, I will be able to apply the skills learned in class with media studies in and beyond the classroom. The Honors Program provides an opportunity for independent research into the field of mass media, which will allow for intensive group studies and in-depth research opportunities, and the superb networking opportunity provides the chance to meet and engage with prominent figures in media-related studies, which will provide a deeper insight and knowledge into the field. Outside the classroom, I can see myself writing scripts for the student-run television station WOLV-TV, or composing headlines for The Michigan Daily. And although journalism is the path I’m currently on, I want to remain open to other opportunities I may encounter at UM. The Pre-Law Advising Program is interesting because I want to explore the intricacies of law and policies that govern this world. I believe that the judicial role of a lawyer is closely related to the expository skills of a writer, and I look forward to exploring this new field of study that wasn’t offered in my high school education. But all these are what UM has to offer me. I realize that, as a member of the UM community, I’ll want to give back as well . The various volunteer programs offered by Volunteers Involved Every Week appeals to me, as does the possibility of volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club of Southern Michigan, as I have previous experience with elementary school teaching. And as an international student, I know the pains of learning English as a second language. I believe I can contribute to the ESL teaching program either at UM or abroad, and see this as an opportunity to have an impact not only at UM, but in Washtenaw County and beyond. (466 words)

Four Things I Love About the “Why Michigan” Essay

The short hook. Many students spend way too long on their  opening when a short one will do. This essay’s hook is just 40 words long and works well. Does your “Why this College” essay even need a hook? Nope. If you use this first approach, get to the main argument as fast as you can.

The clear thesis that provides a path for the essay . This will probably take you back to AP English class essays where you’re asked to make your argument explicit at the start and then provide evidence to support it. That’s what you’re doing in a “Why this College” essay and your argument is that you and the school are a perfect match. 

Three main reasons and 3-4 bits of supporting evidence per paragraph . I recommend identifying three main reasons because a) it keeps your essay organized, b) it’s easy to adapt for different length “Why this College” essays, and c) it provides “buckets” for your research. (“Buckets” = the themed paragraphs you need to “fill” with research.)

The way he sprinkles “salt” into his essay. Remember above where the author notes that he “look[s] forward to exploring [law at Michigan, as it] wasn’t offered in [his] high school education”? I call this sprinkling “salt” into your “Why us?” essay. Why? Consider this analogy: salt makes one thirsty and, by mentioning opportunities you haven’t had access to, you let the reader know that you’re thirsty for something the school has to offer. And the reader may know of opportunities for quenching that thirst that you don’t—including the “salt” may inspire them to think of those ways. 

A Slightly More Advanced Example of This Approach 

Here’s another example that follows the basic structure of the “Why Michigan” essay, but it’s a bit more advanced because  the details are a bit more specific. As a result, we learn a bit more about both the school and the author. Read it first, then take a look at the outline below to see how it’s constructed.

The Why Penn “Why this College” Essay Example

Note: I’m bolding the school-specific reasons in his essay so you can spot them more easily, but you shouldn’t do this in your final draft.

Prompt: How will you explore your intellectual and academic interests at the University of Pennsylvania? Please answer this question given the specific undergraduate school to which you are applying. (Word limit: 650)

I want to be a catalyst when I grow up, someone who sparks growth while also trying to sustain the environment through improved efficiency. At UPenn, I look forward to pursuing a major in Mechanical Engineering and exploring interdisciplinary programs, as I believe that sustainability can be a viable solution to preserve earth’s resources. At the GRASP laboratory , I hope to work at the Haptics Lab under Professor Katherine Kuchenbecker to devise an integrated haptic-responsive camera trap. I believe that the use of teleoperation (in camera traps) in wildlife censuses and studies can be a potential gamechanger in a geologically diverse country like India. I also feel that haptics interfaces can catalyze the process of discovering and studying unexplored biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats and the high-rising Himalayas. Besides this, I would also really get a chance to perfect my butterfly stroke through stroke rehabilitation at the Haptics Lab! In addition, hands-on project courses like Machine Design and Manufacturing and Product Design will help me in developing, testing and prototyping product permutations, and through ISAC Program 2018, I would love to advocate for a course called Environmentally Sustainable Product Design, as I feel that a product’s longevity in a market is directly related to its environmental sustainability. I believe that little sparks of innovation can turn into developed businesses if given the right acceleration and, having already negotiated a deal with the software company Everlution Software Ltd. for my eco-friendly innovation ‘Water Wave’, I look forward to using the opportunities at IGEL to turn my innovations into sustainable technological ventures. After accompanying my father to joint-venture meetings across Europe, I have picked upon certain technical aspects of negotiations such as the influence of ‘EBITDA’, the use of inter-cultural body language to change mindsets and the long-drawn-out process of Due Diligence. Courses like Engineering Negotiations will advance my skills in the subtle art of negotiation and develop my thinking in high-pressure situations. I look forward to contributing in unconventional ways: through Penn’s policy of Climate Action 2.0 , I’d love to help increase the efficiency of alternative energy machinery through responsive auto-sensors and I would also contribute to the establishing of wildlife corridors at UPenn by conducting case studies at the Morris Arboretum with the help of the Penn Green Fund . I also look forward to engaging in bird photography and ornithology by being an active member of the Penn Birding Club and potentially conducting fall bird censuses to illuminate for students the birdlife that nestles in the university. I hope to photograph and document each and every one of the 104 species ( Morris Arboretum Checklist ) of birds at UPenn. Furthermore, courses like Documentary Strategies and Photographic Thinking will help me better integrate critical thought into my photos and construct out-of-the-box documentaries to put into perspective environmental sustainability at UPenn. Also, contributing photo essays to the Penn Sustainability Review will allow me to depict the need for a change, beyond words. UPenn will also help me pursue a multitude of activities at its various clubs such as Penn Cricket Club , PennNaatak , where I hope to spark my flair for Marathi Drama , and men’s club basketball (I was all state for three years!). As I move with a redefined pace towards the goal of global sustainability, I am reminded of the UPenn ideology of addressing the most challenging questions and problems of our time by integrating and combining different disciplines and perspectives. Through my stay at UPenn, I hope to do just that.

Here’s the outline for the “Why UPenn” essay (which you can adapt for your own essay): 

Intro/Thesis (say what you want to study and why)

Really specific academic offering at the school that is in your intended major/concentration (this should connect to you in a really specific way)

A second really specific academic offering that is also in your intended major/concentration (and that also connects back to you) 

Something academic that’s not in your intended major/concentration (this keeps the focus on academics, but also brings in some variety)

Best/most important extracurricular offering (that connects to you in a really specific way)

Miscellaneous extracurriculars paragraph (2-3 things to demonstrate social/non-academic fit) 

Closing (this can be short and, in shorter “Why this College” essays, is unnecessary)

Note that the content in the two essays above are roughly 50% about the school and 50% about the student, which is a nice balance. Below is an example essay that uses a similar structure (thesis followed by main reasons), but is more like 75% about the school and 25% about the student. This isn’t not “wrong,” it’s just a slightly different approach.

The Why Tufts “Why this College” Essay Example

Prompt: Which aspects of Tufts’ curriculum or undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short: “Why Tufts?” (200 word limit) 

In addition to providing a strong foundation in economics, Tufts provides me the opportunity to further explore global health care policy through an International Relations Program that leverages the strengths of 18 related departments and programs. I’m also keen to continue my study of the Chinese language through Tufts’ Chinese Department, studying with Professor Mingquan Wang and perhaps study abroad at Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China, to receive the full immersion experience. Tufts’ Experimental College intrigues me as I can take unconventional courses such as Game Strategy (EXP-0029-S) and Rising Tide: Climate Change, Vulnerability, and Adaptation (EXP-0021-F). Further, Tufts’ urban backdrop provides me the opportunity to play league cricket year round to train for my bid to become the first Jumbo on the US National Cricket Team, while studying abroad at Oxford would provide me with not only global economic perspectives, but also the opportunity to continue my pursuit of cricket in its birthplace. Visiting Tufts, my mother’s alma mater, I felt I was at home in Singapore. Its strengths in Chinese, Econ and International Relations, combined with its beautiful suburban campus, academic rigor, and global reach have confirmed that Tufts is the place for me. (196 words) 

I call this the “firehose” approach because it packs 14 reasons into 196 words. The author offers the reader a sense that he has clearly done his research and knows how he might make use of the school’s offerings, which is the goal of the solid, basic “Why this College” essay. 

Did you notice how easy it would be to adapt the “Why Tufts” essay for another school? Switch out “18” in “18 related departments and programs,” change the names of the Chinese professor and University, name two different interesting courses and cut the “mother’s alma mater” line and voila—suddenly this is an essay for another school.

But how do you make the school feel really special? Like this:

Approach #2: The “3-5 Unique Reasons” Strategy

How it works: find 3-5 opportunities that are particular to the school (i.e. available at no other school or no other school you’re applying to) and connect each one back to you.

This is my favorite approach, as focusing on fewer reasons allows you the chance to share more about yourself and your interests (i.e., “why you”). But it can be more difficult to write because, frankly, it can be hard to find specifics that truly set a school apart from other schools. It is possible to find these unique offerings, however, and I believe it’s worth trying, especially for your top-choice school(s).

Pro Tip: Ask admission reps what sets their school (or the department you’re applying to) apart from other schools.

As an example, notice how the author below names four unique offerings that connect him to Cornell (I’ve labeled them below). Plus, we learn a little more about the author’s interests than we do from the essays above.

The Why Cornell “Why this College” Essay Example

Prompt: Students in Arts and Sciences embrace the opportunity to delve into their academic interests, discover new realms of intellectual inquiry, and chart their own path through the College. Tell us why the depth, breadth, and flexibility of our curriculum are ideally suited to exploring the areas of study that excite you. (Word limit: 650)

Whenever I have time on my hands, I hook myself up to my EEG and analyze my brain waves. Or if I am feeling slightly less adventurous, I am reading about the latest neuroscience trends in ScienceDirect or NCBI PubMed. I want to spend my life studying, understanding, and helping to fix the human brain. I bought my EEG online two years ago for about $150 and have used it to compare the beneficial effects of both circadian and non-circadian sleep on the brain by analyzing the number of clear peaks in a 3-minute interval of a theta wave. But just counting the peaks is not the best way to measure the benefits. I look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of neurophysiology (as well as working with better equipment) in courses like Principles of Neurophysiology. As someone who has long been passionate about neurotechnology, the fact that Cornell is unique in offering classes devoted specifically to the field is very important to me. I would also like to be able to contribute my experiences with neurotechnology to support the cutting edge research in Cornell’s brand new NeuroNex Hub. I would love to work with Dr. Chris Xu in expanding the current three-photon microscope to be applied on various animal models. I also look forward to helping Dr. Chris Schaffer, whose research on deep neural activity is not being done anywhere else in the world. I freak out at the possibility of helping him develop a tool to look at multiple brain areas at the same time.  Though I have long aspired to study at Cornell, when I visited and sat in on Neurobiology and Behavior II, it made me all the more determined. I found Professor Christiane Linster’s presentation on synaptic plasticity absolutely riveting. Her animations of neurotransmitters crossing a synapse and new synapses forming in neuron clusters kept her students engaged in a way I have not seen in any other classrooms. I want to go to Cornell because of teachers like her.   During my visit I also enjoyed talking with Kacey about her experiences in the college scholars program. I loved that she had studied the effects of circus and gymnastic performances, like Cirque Du Soleil, on therapy for children with neurological disabilities. I am very excited by the idea of combining neuroscience with something like the effects of learning a classical language on developing brains. Many studies have shown the plethora of positive effects of being bilingual, but not much research has been done on classical languages. I have been studying Latin for over seven years, and I have experienced firsthand the positive effects. I spend hours every day breaking down complex sentences such as those in Vergil’s Aeneid, and so have extended this approach to problem-solving to other aspects of my life, like my neuroscience research. This is the program I would create for my college scholars project.  Cornell is also the only university I am interested in that offers a speaking course in Latin: Conversational Latin. For the past six years, I have rarely had to translate more than a few sentences at a time from English to Latin, never truly experiencing the unique grammatical features of Latin, such as intricate word play by Catullus in his Odes, that drew me so much to this language. I would love to supplement my knowledge by being able to formulate my thoughts in Latin and actively immerse myself in the language. I am really excited about learning the language as it was meant to be learned, as well as the new perspective it will provide me on Latin rhetorical artifacts.  As a kid who loves inventing, enjoys interactive learning, and wants to speak a dead language, I know Cornell is where I want to be. I wonder if my roommate will mind if I bring my EEG?

How this essay is similar to the first approach:

He begins with a short intro and solid thesis; both work well.

He weaves back and forth between what he wants and what the school offers.

What sets this essay apart: The four examples that name how the school is unique give us a really clear sense of how Cornell is a great fit for this student. Also, we know this essay was written specifically for the school because it would be much more difficult (than the “Why Tufts” essay, for example) to switch out the variables and use this for another school. Finally, while the “Why Michigan” and “Why UPenn” examples go for breadth, discussing many different reasons; the “Why Cornell” example discusses fewer reasons but with more depth.

STILL DEBATING on which COLLEGE MAJORS to choose?

Approach #3: the “one value” strategy.

How it works: identify one core value that links you to the school and tell a story.

This approach might be good for: 

Schools that a) have shorter “Why this College” essays and b) seem to be asking for this type of response

Students who feel approaches #1 and #2 might blend in too much, and are willing to take a risk

Why is this a risky approach?

You’re foregoing listing 5-15 reasons that connect you to the school (and, frankly, that some admission officers like to see)

This approach hinges on a particular story, value, or insight. And if:

your reader is skimming (as many are), or 

your story isn’t well-told, or 

the central theme or value isn’t clear, or

the insight doesn’t make the reader feel something… the essay may not work. 

That’s a lot of ifs! Having said that, here’s an example essay that, I think, does work:

The Why Bowdoin “Why this College” Essay Example

Prompt: Bowdoin students and alumni often cite world-class faculty and opportunities for intellectual engagement, the College’s commitment to the Common Good, and the special quality of life on the coast of Maine as important aspects of the Bowdoin experience. (Word limit: 250)

Reflecting on your own interests and experiences, please comment on one of the following:

1. Intellectual engagement

2. The Common Good

3. Connection to place

On the first dawn of the summer, I found myself in a familiar place: sitting awkwardly in the back of a crowded bus full of rowdy twelve year olds. But this time around, I wasn’t the shy, new kid at school, a position I knew all too well. I was the teacher, implementing a middle school aquatic ecology curriculum I’d developed the year before. As New Jersey’s Passaic River appeared on the horizon, I tightened the red laces on my Merrell hiking boots and checked my bag: clipboards, lesson plans, and a new water testing kit. For the entire day, I watched as twenty-five young minds tested the Passaic River’s water. Using the river as a natural learning laboratory, I taught them about pollution and industrialization, urban design and remediation strategies. That summer, through my work in environmental education, I discovered the power of place. I realized that in a changing world, places really are the best storytellers. By tracking the Passaic’s pollution levels, we toured the tales of its waters, beginning with its use by the Lenape Native Americans, to its unjust usurpation by European hegemons, to the Vietnam War, during which tons of Agent Orange were dumped recklessly. At Bowdoin, I’ll encounter this again. I find myself doing the very thing I was teaching: investigating the rich stories behind a place. As part of my major in Earth and Oceanographic Science, I blissfully get lost on Orr’s Island, researching everything from the historical ecology to the changing geography of the Maine coastline. And I can’t wait.

Why does this essay work?

This author checks a few “Why us?” boxes by focusing on specifics, showing us he’s done his research, and clearly answering the prompt. But want to know the main thing that sets this essay apart?

The author found a deep connection between one of the school’s core values and one of his own. 

I know this flies in the face of the “provide a whole bunch of specific reasons” for your essay that I mentioned in Approach #1. Instead, the author found one really good reason: Both he and Bowdoin are deeply committed to investigating place . This focus was particularly apropos for this student, as he planned to major in Environmental Science. And, as you read this essay you sense that it couldn’t have been written for another prompt.

Because he used a value as the central theme, this essay is primarily about the author. Check out that word count: the essay is 258 words long, but he doesn’t even mention the school until word 202.

This works because he stays connected to the central themes, which are nature and storytelling. In fact, if in your essay we don’t get a sense of the central themes in the first 200 words, we might wonder, “Where is this going?”

Instead, though, we feel as we read this essay that the author is taking us somewhere. He’s a guide we trust. So we relax.

How can you write an essay like this?

1. Find a way in which you and the school are deeply aligned.

Hint: It’s probably a value. 

It’ll take some research. And it may be easier to do this with a smaller liberal arts school (like Bowdoin) that has a particular character. Reed College, for example, is proud to call its students “Reedies”—even going so far as to call them a particular species—so, for Reed, you might figure out what being a “Reedie” means to you, then demonstrate why you are without a doubt one of them.

2. Take your time crafting the essay.

What do I mean? I believe a great “Why this College” essay is similar to a great personal statement in that it should demonstrate:

Core values (which this essay does)

Insight (aka important and interesting connections, aka “so what” moments)

Craft (it should be obvious, in other words, that the author has revised the essay over several drafts and knows the purpose of each paragraph, sentence, and word)

And because the Bowdoin essay above essentially focuses on just one important and interesting connection (connection to place), I believe that craft becomes a LOT more important. In other words: this essay would be much less awesome if it were much less beautiful. 

What do I mean by beautiful? Read it aloud. Note phrases like, “Using the river as a natural learning laboratory” and “places really are the best storytellers.” The writer even makes water testing kits sound like exciting tools of a real-life adventurer, as essential to the author as an explorer’s compass (and when I read this essay I’m convinced they are)! 

How do you get to this point? I think you have to really love the thing you’re writing about. I also think (if I’m being honest) that you have to love to write, or at least to convince yourself you do.

This approach takes time. But it’s worth it. Why? I believe this is the type of essay that, particularly at a small liberal arts college, can truly make a difference. I have only anecdotal evidence—stories from a few admissions officers—to prove it, but in some cases I believe essays like this have tipped the scales in favor of a particular student.

3. Find a way to be vulnerable.

This part is perhaps the most difficult, but most crucial. Let me explain: 

I mentioned above that a great “Why us?” essay should demonstrate a) important and interesting questions and b) craft. But there’s a third quality that I think a great personal statement should have, and that a “Why us?” essay can, in rare instances, demonstrate. That quality is vulnerability.

How does the Bowdoin essay above show vulnerability? He lets his geekiness show. (My definition of “geek,” by the way, is someone with a lot of knowledge in a particular area, particularly an area that is not conventionally popular.) He does this by writing about what he loves without apology. 

Why is this vulnerable? Because, in doing so, he risks public ridicule. (I mean, water testing? Come on ...) But he pulls it off because he doesn’t go too far or include too much jargon. Why is this important? He draws us in rather than push us away. And we’ve all met both kinds of geeks: the kind that draw us in and the kind that alienate us. Be the draw-us-in kind.

Another thing that makes this essay vulnerable: he lists very few (almost no) Bowdoin specifics. And that’s a risk! Did it work? You decide.

Could I create a hybrid approach by focusing on a central theme, but still listing a few reasons?

Yup. Here’s...

The Hybrid Approach: Use a Central Theme + Include Several Specific Reasons That Connect Back to You

The Why Swarthmore “Why this College Essay Example

The human body’s greatest asset is its ears. They come pimpled, freckled, mushed, bent, rounded, and pointed. But, despite their differences, they share a single purpose: to listen. Swarthmore is all about ears. It not only understands the importance of empathetic and open dialogue, but also the ways in which listening can be the first step towards bridging deeply entrenched ideological divides. Whether I’m learning from guest lecturers at the Center for Innovation and Leadership, engaging in dialogue at the Global Health Forum, or exploring my sexuality through the Intercultural Center, I know I’d be at a place that values collaboration, honest discourse, ethical leadership, and creativity invested in the public good. Everything at Swarthmore is about putting those cartilage appendages on the sides of your head to good use.  As a person drawn to audio and visual storytelling, my life has been defined by listening. At Swarthmore, I would continue to foster the quality relationships I’ve created and the love I’ve spread by inviting people to share their stories on my podcasts. Majoring in Film & Media Studies or English Literature, broadcasting at WSRN, and writing for The Review is the next chapter in my life of listening. I would creatively explore how narratives have been told in the past and can be redefined digitally for a new generation of ears. Swarthmore knows that global change starts with an honest conversation. I want to be pioneering new networks of connection. I want to be starting those conversations. (247 words)

Ethan’s note: If you go with this approach, ideally you would find offerings unique to the school (as in the “Why Cornell” essay). But if you can’t, just find reasons that are as specific as possible and connect them back to you (as in the “Why Michigan” and “Why UPenn” essays).

How to Write a “Why this College” Essay If You Don’t Know What You Want to Study

Good news: you can still write a great “Why this College” even if you have no idea what you want to be when you grow up. Some tips:

1. Consider including a thesis that either names your 2-3 areas of interest or states that you’re unsure what you want to study. In that thesis, consider saying what you do want, and including the name of the school (Example: “I’m interested in X, Y, and Z, and I believe there’s no other place for me to explore these areas than the University of Wisconsin-Madison.”) 

2. You can also begin with a nice hook to not only show your creativity but also perhaps distract from the fact that you have no idea what you want to be when you grow up (and oh by the way it’s totally fine to not know).

Here’s a great example to illustrate these points:

The Why Johns Hopkins “Why this College” Essay Example

Prompt: Johns Hopkins University was founded in 1876 on a spirit of exploration and discovery. As a result, students can pursue a multi-dimensional undergraduate experience both in and outside of the classroom. Given the opportunities at Hopkins, please discuss your current interests (academic, extracurricular, personal passions, summer experiences, etc.) and how you will build upon them here. (500 words)

Dear 2016 Ariana, It’s 2026. I have just returned from the G20 summit after delivering the annual-report on demographic transition and population stability. Throughout your seventeen years of life, you have been barraged with choices: Which airline seat to choose? Is the answer B or C? Is “the dress” blue/black or white/gold? But, you will soon make a choice that will allow you to harness your knowledge and apply it to reality. The choice to go to Johns Hopkins. By now, you have lived in India, the UK, and the USA: multicultural exposure that shaped your worldview. You are confused as to what you want exactly, but deep down you strive for a synergy of ideas and fields. That can and will be found at Hopkins. Particularly, the JHU Humanities Center will provide you with a flexible approach toward interdisciplinary study: important, as you value the need to explore before settling on a choice. You will find this at Homewood , but also globally; through study at the Sciences Po campus , Paris , which outlines the interconnectedness between areas such as law, finance, and urban policy. In Model United Nations, you built skills in collaboration, working with students across the country to embody pluralism and reach consensus. At Hopkins, you will enhance these skills and your knowledge of international relations in Professors Moss and Hanchards’s class, Diaspora, Nation, Race, & Politics . The discussions, which range from political sociology and human rights to the fall of late nineteenth century empires, will give you greater insight into how history determines our understanding of today’s geopolitical challenges. And although you stuck your toe in the ocean of government and politics through your internship in Senator Glazer’s office, JHU provides an immersive dive into this field through their International Studies Program , with opportunities at the Nanjing Center, China and the Nitze School in Washington D.C . On a local level, you will be able to extend your political service when you run for JHU Student Government Association , where you will continue to represent diverse viewpoints and provide a forum for recognition and discussion. You will also have the opportunity to continue your work with the Red Cross , giving back to the Baltimore community by joining the JHU and the Chesapeake Regional chapters . And by joining the Public Health Student Forum , you will gain access to speakers who have worked in these fields all their life, like Former Director of the Peace Corps, Dr. Jody Olsen, and Dr. Richard Benjamin, Chief Medical Officer of the Red Cross . All your life experiences, from building community to understanding behavior in order to enact decisions, have stemmed from One. Single. Choice. Without Johns Hopkins, you would not have become an expert on global policy change, speaking at events like the G20 emporium. Yes, the world has changed dramatically in the past 10 years. But Hopkins recognizes this fluidity, and paired with you, Ariana, will propel the importance of integrative study. Love, Future Ariana PS: The dress is white/gold.

Final note from me: Do you notice how in the end this approach isn’t all that different from Approaches 1 and 2? The main difference is her thesis, which, instead of naming a major, simply states that she’s unsure what she wants to study. We’re cool with it, though, especially because she still includes lots of reasons and connects each back to herself.

Three Ways to Make Sure Your “Why this College” Essay Is Doing Its Job

1. Scan your essay for capital letters. Why? Because, chances are, capital letters means you’ve included something specific that the school offers. In fact...

2. Highlight in bold your reasons for wanting to attend. I’ve done this in the “Why Johns Hopkins” essay above. Notice after doing this if you have just 1-3 items highlighted in bold. If so, you can probably trim in some places to make room for more reasons. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, but if you’re going for the first or second approach I’ve described, then 1-3 reasons per paragraph is a good rule of thumb, whereas if you’re going for the third approach you can kind of do whatever: you might choose to go in-depth on one really great reason. But either way…

3. Make sure that each time you mention something about the school you connect it back to yourself. How do you know? Simply check each mention of the school and see if you’ve explained why this is important—not just in general, but to you.

Finally, just so you can see how a personal statement and “Why this College” essay can work together, here is: 

The Laptop Sticker “Why this College” Essay Example

If I could pursue only one goal for the rest of my life, it would be taking measurable action towards gender equality. Since the age of six, I have observed the difference in how I am treated because of my gender—when playing sports, during mealtimes, or at social gatherings. I have tried to counter the effects of gender bias through social entrepreneurship, and now I would like to gain insight into the societal constructs that underlie these issues. At UPenn, I hope to study Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies with a concentration in Feminist Studies and Global Gender and Sexuality Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences. Through Professor Kathleen Brown’s “Gender & Society” class, I will learn how complex social identities such as race and gender impact economic exchange and demarcate opportunities available to minorities. I hope to further explore the consequences of electoral quotas and their effect on women’s mobilization transnationally with Dawn Teele in her class, “Sex and Power.” Such classes will help me ensure that I am not working for one cause at the expense of another, and will arm me with the skills necessary to analyze social, economic and political dynamics in the real world. Last summer, I spent a month at UPenn, living in Harnwell College House and incubating my social impact startup, Straw’d, through the LaunchX program held at the Pennovation Center. At the program, MEAM Professor Jenna Shanis spoke about her work designing soda machines with Coca Cola. Presenting us with a simple task (“design a way for humans to enjoy flowers”), she showed us that the first solution is usually never the best solution, and that innovation is most effective when it is iteratively brainstormed and cross-fertilized. Material Science and Engineering Professor Vanessa Chan, inventor of the tangle-free headphones ‘Loopit,’ inspired me to take on the challenge of creating a consumer good instead of a company in the service industry. These two professors, along with others who spoke, have given me a new perspective on integrating theory into practice, critical thinking into activism. Given my interest in building new social enterprises, I would like to join the Penn Social Entrepreneurship Movement to learn more about empowering women economically in different countries. Through events like ‘Social Impact Talk Series’ held by PennSEM, I will learn about the multi-faceted industry of social entrepreneurship and gain exposure to issues such as food innovation and food policymaking. Additionally, planning TEDxYouth@Austin events has been an integral part of my four years of high school, and I will continue this passion through TEDxPenn by finding women speakers from underrepresented industries and helping to elevate their voices.   I’ve been an artist longer than I have been an activist. Through classes such as “Photographic Thinking- a Benjamin Franklin Seminar” and “Art, Design, and Digital Culture”, I will learn to use design as a vehicle to fight for gender equality in the future, as digital art is currently heavily influencing the way social movements develop momentum through media. While at UPenn, I noticed that many youth from surrounding neighborhoods grow up with difficult socioeconomic circumstances, and I hope to empower women of color from these neighborhoods as I study how race and gender impact economic opportunity. I will join the Community School Student Partnerships to lead social impact and entrepreneurship workshops at the after-school programs in high schools. I've experienced firsthand how entrepreneurship training can empower individuals, and by training girls from underrepresented communities, I hope to help them solve the problems they experience. Joining CSSP would give me the opportunity to give back to the Philadelphia and Penn communities while continuing my passion for empowering young females. The GSWS program at UPenn is a perfect fit for me. Its interdisciplinary training and intersectional approach would provide me with the knowledge, mentorship, and resources I need to continue growing as a social justice advocate and champion of equality.

And there you have it. Three approaches to tackle your ‘Why this college” essay, and some important context before you dive in. Hopefully these tips have you off and running.

Have a tip or question? Have a totally different approach to this essay? Let me know in the comments.

Happy “Why us?”-ing.

more “why us?” essay writing resources:

“ Why this College” Essay Example #1: annotated essay for the University of Michigan.

“ Why this College” Essay Example #2: annotated essay for Tufts.

Guide: Writing a "Why us?" Essay for a Safety School

More DOs and DON'Ts for Your "Why Us?" Statement

Personal Statement Examples

Extracurricular Activity Examples

• About Project
• Testimonials

Business Management Ideas

Essay on My School

List of essays on my school in english, essay on my school – essay 1 (250 words), essay on my school – essay 2 (250 words), essay on my school – teachers, schedule and conclusion – essay 3 (300 words), essay on my school life – memories and conclusion – essay 4 (400 words), essay on my school – introduction, environment and teachers – essay 5 (500 words), essay on my school – surroundings and structure – essay 6 (600 words), essay on my school – infrastructure and academic activities – essay 7 (750 words), essay on my school – introduction, discipline and conduct – essay 8 (1000 words).

A school is a medium of learning for children and is often regarded as a place of worship for the students. Writing an essay on my school is quite common among students. Here we have essays on My School of different lengths which would prove quite helpful to your children. You can choose the essay as per your length requirement and you shall find that essays have been written in quite easy to understand yet crisp language. Moreover, the essays have been written in such a manner that they are suited for all classes, be it the junior school or the senior classes.

Introduction:

Education in India has made significant progress over the years. Both private and public schools facilitate education for Indian children and follow the same regulations for teaching curriculum. All schools incorporate extracurricular activities into the school systems, which motivates the learners and help them in realizing their talents and building their personalities. Schools are funded by the three levels i.e., the state, local and central levels. Schools in India cover primary, secondary and post-secondary levels of education. The highest percentage of schools offer primary education.

Crescent public school:

My school is a public institution that is located in Delhi. Crescent Public school was established in 1987 and it has been in operation ever since. The school is well equipped in terms of facilities as we have a gym, a library, a nice playground, our classes are modern, the buses are adequate and labs are functional. I joined this school in the year 2016 and I have been able to learn a lot about the school. The school is affordable and the education I have received is quality because I have developed in all aspects of life.

Not only is the school excellent in education, but also excellence in sports is achieved. I have always loved playing tennis. I participate in the school’s tennis competitions. In the year 2017, we won the Bronze medal in the national tournament by CBSE. This year, we secured third position in the same sport, which was an exciting experience for both the students and the teachers. It has been a great experience especially with support from our teachers.

Introduction

My School, St. Mary’s Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School is located in Armenian Street, at the heart of Chennai City. It is one of the oldest schools for boys in India, established during the British rule.

“Viriliter Age” which means “Act like a Man” is the motto of my school. It aims to provide a family atmosphere for us to become intellectually enlightened, spiritually profound, emotionally balanced, socially committed and morally responsible students.

Though built during the colonial rule, the buildings are airy and comfortable. The Management regularly upgrades the facilities and uses uptodate technology to run my school. It has a large playground, well-stocked library and well-equipped science laboratory.

Daily Schedule

A typical day at my school starts with the assembly at 8:30 AM. We render our prayers, hear moral and other instructions from teachers. Apart from regular academics through the day, our time table is spotted with periods for music, games, project work etc. We undertake sports activities for an hour after the last period, which gets over at 3:30 PM.

Co-Curricular Activities

According to our interests, we are encouraged to participate in Arts & Crafts, NSS, Scout etc., and become members of various Clubs and Associations. Medical Teams and Psychologists visit us regularly to aid our holistic growth.

I love my school, teachers and friends very much. I aim to complete my studies with laurels. I wish to shine brightly in my higher studies and career, to spread the pride of my school.

My school is situated in the foothills of Yercaud in Salem district, Tamil Nadu and is called “Golden Gates”. It fosters a love for learning and this is clearly seen in its location which is unlike any other school. It is well placed in a natural setting with hills all around and streams flowing nearby. Inside the campus too, there is abundant nature with almond trees lining the divide between buildings and many shrubs and plants bordering different sports grounds. This facilitates practical study and most of our science and geography classes happen outside. Our Principal and Correspondent have made it their mission to create a healthy and organic atmosphere for learning.

My school teachers come in all shades of character. There are those teachers who have great love for the subject they teach and impart that love to us students too. Even a student who hates that particular subject will start liking it, if he/she sits in their classes. Next, we have jovial teachers who are cheerful in nature and radiate joy to all around them. They are friendly and compassionate and are the go-to people for all students when any trouble comes up. Then, there are the strict teachers who are rigorous in nature and make sure discipline and decorum is maintained throughout school. They are the ones who keep rule breakers and unruly students at bay. Together, our teachers form the heart and soul of the school.

On weekdays, typical school schedule happens in my school too. We start our day with a prayer assembly. With a short news time, prayer song and any specific instructions for the day, we depart to our respective classes. After four periods of subjects with a short snack break in between, we break for lunch. Lunch is when the whole school comes alive with shouts and screams of laughter as we all socialise with fellow classmates. Then follows three periods of subjects in the afternoon and off we leave to our homes. But everybody’s favourite is Saturday! The day dedicated for extracurricular activities. There are many clubs for Music, Dance, Gardening, Math, Drama, Science, Eco, etc… Each student is to pick two clubs and partake in them in the morning. Post lunch we have various sports clubs to participate in. On the whole, Saturdays are packed with play and fun.

Conclusion:

In today’s world, with the hustle and bustle of city life, my school is a wonderful place to learn and grow. It enriches our journey through education by blending in play, fun and nature.

Be a light to be a light – is the touching inscription welcomes all of us at the entrance gate of our school. My school – always filled with a treasure trove of memories, which is the best part of my life. It was indeed a paradise, located in the high ranges of the Western Ghats. Far away from the buzzing urban setting, my school situated amidst lush greenery in a calm and serene atmosphere.

My alma mater did mold me into a responsible citizen and an aspiring individual. It witnessed my metamorphosis from an ignorant toddler into a bold young adult with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. It gifted me with fourteen years of reminiscence to cherish for a lifetime.

Only fond memories – a home away from home:

For me, it was a home away from home. Even the trivial matters about the school became part and parcel of my life. Each classroom that I have sat in had made an indelible mark on my memory. The see-saw in the kids’ park, the class assemblies, physical training classes, lunch break chit chats, art competitions, sports competitions, silly fights with friends, school anniversaries, tight special classes, records, labs, exams… all left deep imprints in my mind.

The most significant part of my school memory revolves around the teachers. They are the incarnation of the divine. They kindle our lives with the bright light of knowledge and help us to imbibe the values to live. We cannot, ignore the contributions of the teachers, as they played a considerable role in molding a student’s life. At first, a student tries to imitate the teacher and gradually makes them the role models.

A teacher plays a vital role in guiding the students to a righteous path. The moral values inherited during school life can last for a lifetime. The way the teachers nurtures and loves the students is heart rendering. We can openly share our anxieties and frustrations with our teachers.

Most teachers were more like best friends. We used to celebrate Teachers Day every year in a grandiose fashion. Our dear teachers always put forth spell spindling performance and enthralled the students with a real visual treat. Their blessings can have a huge influence on anybody’s lives. Even after you go to pursue your higher studies, you can always come back to your school and cherish your good old days. Our teachers are so overwhelmed to see us and are curious to know about our accomplishments.

Besides all these, another best thing about school is our friends. It is the place where any human begins to socialize. You enter into a new realm of social life at school. Hence your acquaintance at school becomes family. As you grow up, the influence of your peer group holds a vital role in your character formation. The hilarious moments with the friends are irreplaceable.

Hence, school life turns out to be a microcosm of the real life wherein you laugh, cry, forgive, forget, interact, react, adjust, learn, teach, observe, take risks, transform and finally evolve into fully fledged individual ready to step out into the complex world.

Education is the bedrock of the society. Any society that wants to break new grounds in science and art has to invest in its education. Though education can be attained both formally and informally, formal education through schools occupies the large chunk of the learning process of any country.

My school is by a large margin one of the best places to attain formal education. While the above statement might sound bold, this article would explain the reasons why my school can back up the bold statement. Features possessed by my school smoothens the learning curve and takes stress away from education.

The Environment:

Assimilation becomes difficult when learning is conducted in a toxic environment. Other times, the terrain isn’t toxic but lacks the right appeal to the average student. Student want to be welcomed with the right colours, feel comfortable when they sit or draw inspiration from the general architecture of their school.

My school embodies the above mentioned qualities and more to the smallest of details. The classrooms are decorated with bright colours to cheer up the student’s mood; the playground is designed to relax each student after participating in mentally challenging mind exercise and the general design of the school subconsciously makes every student feel at home.

The Teachers:

Teachers can either make or break any school. Some grumpy, others dull, and then you have those who simply lack the techniques of teaching. While some concepts are easy to learn, other concepts require a teacher who has mastered the art of teaching to drive the point home with each student.

My school possesses experienced teacher who could honestly be motivational speakers when they want to be. They are witty, smart and full of charisma. Also, while they can be playful, they ensure that the message doesn’t get lost. To sum it up, teachers in my school hold themselves to the best moral standards. These values are innocuously instilled in the student while they learn academic concepts.

The Students:

There simply can be no school without the student. No matter how nicely decorated a school is, the quality of its teachers or management, it would all go to waste without bright student flooding the classes on a daily basis.

While abundance of vibrant student can be found at my school, the strength of the student does not lie solely in their numbers. Students at my school make the job of teachers easy. They are attentive in class, pay attention to detail and they have a knack for finishing task in record time.

The conduct of student at my school is second to none. The students are courteous to each other and their superiors. Also, they maintain the highest level of decorum in the classroom and beyond.

All the good things about my school cannot be exhausted in this short article. Also, after all has been said and done, the pertinent question is whether or not I love my school enough to recommend it to others. The answer to this question is definitely in the affirmative.

School is an integral part of everybody’s life. It helps in forming and building the base of child’s future. The students that are genuinely concerned to learn might build healthy practices merely in the schools. In my school, I was educated about the ways through which I can move in the society, progress in my life and behave with others.

My school was quite grand and big. There were three storeys and wonderfully constructed building in the school. It was situated in the middle of my city which was quite close to my home. I used to go there by walking. It was one of the most excellent schools in the entire town in which I was living.

Surroundings of My school:

The site of my school was very quiet as well as pollution free. There were two stairways at both ends that make me reach to each floor. The school was well furnished including a well-instrumented science research laboratory, a big library, as well as one computer laboratory at first floor. There was a school lecture theatre located on the ground floor in which the entire annual meetings and functions take place.

Structure of my school:

The head office, principal offices, staff room, clerk room, and common study room are situated on my school’s ground floor. Moreover, there were the stationery shop, school canteen; skating hall and chess room that were located on the ground floor.

My school possesses two large concreted basketball courts opposite the office of school principal whereas the field of football located at its side. There was a tiny green garden facing the head office. It was full of bright flowers and pretty plants that increase the whole school beauty. During my time, there were around 1600 students at my school. All the students perform quite well in any inter-school competitions.

Standard of education:

The education standards of my school were quite inventive and advanced that benefit me in understanding any difficult subjects quite effortlessly. Our professors explain us everything very genuinely and try to let us know all the things practically. My school always get the first rank in any inter-school cultural activities.

All the significant days of the year like teacher’s day, sports day, parent’s day, anniversary day, children’s day, republic day, founder’s day, Christmas day, independence day, mother’s day, happy new year, annual junction, Mahatma Gandhi birthday, etc., were celebrated in my school in a magnificent way.

My school’s atmosphere was very delightful as there were lots of greenery and scenic beauty. There was a big size garden along with the pool having frog, fish, trees, colorful flowers, green grass, and decorative trees, etc. My school offers the programme’s facility to the students belonging to the class nursery to class 12th. Our school’s principal was very strict regarding hygiene, discipline, and cleanliness.

Other facilities:

Students in my school also get the facility of the bus that helps them in reaching the school from far away places. The entire students used to accumulate in the play area during the morning time for the prayer and then go back to their particular schoolrooms. There were different teachers for the diverse subjects in my school such as Math, P.T., Hindi, English, G.K, Marathi, geography, history, drawing and crafts, science, and many more.

We used to have numerous co-curricular activities in my school like scouting, swimming, N.C.C, skating, school band, dancing, singing, etc. All those students who had prejudiced behavior and do disobedient activities were penalized by the class teacher according to the norms of my school. We also get a small lecture daily from our principal for around 10 minutes regarding the etiquette, character formation, moral education, respecting others and acquiring good values. Thus, I can say that what I am today is only because of my school which is the best school according to me.

I am a proud student of Delhi Public School, Mayapuri. My school is located quite close to my home, at a walking distance of 5 minutes. My school positions high among the composite state-funded schools of Delhi. Late Sh. Ram Gopal, the founder leader of Seth Sagarmal trust is the zenith body behind the establishment of this school. The founder administrator Sh. Ram Gopal was a visionary and a philanthropist and he had a fantasy for giving quality education and great foundation with the goal that the kids from the cross segment of the general public could get great training and turn into the respectable nationals of the nation. His fantasy was acknowledged when Delhi Public School, Mayapuri was built up in the year 1991 and spread over 4 acres of land. He used to tell during the assembly meetings that this school has been set up with a mission to give quality training gelled with moral qualities and has the vision to encourage and develop the intellectual and creative abilities in us. Our teachers at Delhi Public School plan to make a solid society by giving comprehensive training keeping in view the changing patterns in worldwide instruction and guide us accordingly.

Infrastructure:

My school is situated on a plot of 4 acres of land out of which 2 acres of land is for the building and remaining 2 acres of land is for the playground and other open-air exercises. Other than brilliant class empowered classrooms, my school building contains the accompanying Lab (Language, General Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths and Computers), Library, Multipurpose Hall, Music, Dance and Drama Room, Workmanship Room, Sports Room, Yoga Room, Hospital/Medical Room regulated by full time qualified specialist and helped by an attendant and Staff Rooms (separate staff spaces for various dimension of educators). My school transport has 6 different routes which cover nearly most of Delhi making it convenient for students from all areas to reach the school on time.

The Atmosphere of My School:

The atmosphere of my school is superb with bunches of natural greenery and scenery. There is a vast ground surrounded by beautiful trees and full of green grass for us to play during our PT periods. Different things like an enormous playground, vast open spaces all around the school give my school a characteristic marvel. There is an office of cricket net, basketball court and skating ground too. My school pursues CBSE board standards. My school gives the education to students of all caste and creed from nursery to twelfth class. My school principal is extremely strict about school control, cleanliness and neatness.

Academic Activities in My School:

The academic norms of my school are exceptionally inventive and imaginative which enables us to understand any difficult issue effortlessly. Our teachers show us earnestly and let us know everything essentially. My school positions first in any program like between school social interests and sports exercises. In my school we celebrate all important days and events of the year such as Sports Day, Teacher’s Day, Parents’ Day, Children’s Day, School Anniversary Day, Founder’s Day, Republic Day, Independence Day, Christmas Day, Mother’s Day, Annual capacity, Happy New Year, Mahatma Gandhi Birthday, and so on in a fabulous way.

We take part in the co-curricular exercises, for example, swimming, exploring, N.C.C., school band, skating, singing, moving, and so on. Students having unjustifiable conduct and unrestrained exercises are punished by the class educator according to the school standards. Our in charge ma’am takes classes of each student occasionally in the gathering corridor for 10 minutes to manage our character, behaviour, moral instruction, gaining great qualities and regarding others. Our educational time is exceptionally fascinating and charming as we do lots of inventive and useful works with the help of our teachers.

Why I Worship My School?

My school resembles a temple where we go every day, appeal to God and study for 6 hours every day. My teacher is exceptionally decent and understanding. My school has strict standards of study, cleanliness and uniform. I just enjoy going to school every day as my mom says that it is exceptionally important to go to class daily and study. This is very important for my bright future and my journey towards becoming a good human being. My School is a temple of realizing where we are creatively engaged through the learning procedure. We learn different things too with our examination like control, conduct, act well, reliability and a lot more manners. In this way, my school is the best school in the world.

We all have many sweet and sour memories of our school. Many of us complete our school education from one school but some students like me have to change more than a few schools. School leaves a great impact on our minds. It affects our way of thinking and teaches us to live in the outside world. No wonder it is called the second home of a child.

I too admire my school. Although it has also been two years since I started studying here, there are many kinds of emotions I have developed for my current school. Basically, I belong to the colorful state of Rajasthan. But due to some family reasons, I had to come to Bhubaneswar. It is the capital city of the state of Orissa.

Early Days at My School:

I started my studies here as a student of standard 7. Clearly, there were many cultural differences between my past school and this one. The language, the climate, the food, and the ways of interaction, everything was different here. For the first few months, it was hard for me to adjust in a completely new environment. But slowly, it started to feel familiar.

The Atmosphere:

My classmates and subject teachers have been very supportive. It’s a co-ed school that means both girls and boys sit together and interact with each other frankly. Our school has a great building. It is situated at the heart of the city, away from the residential areas of the town. We go to school by bus.

Teachers at my school come from different parts of the country. My English teacher is a south-Indian whereas my science teacher is a highly reputed lady who came from America and settled in India a few years ago. She is a visiting faculty and teaches us out of her passion for the teaching job.

The students in my school belong to different types of families. Some are from a very simple family. And some are from highly reputed and educated families. For example, the parents of one of my classmates are scientists and parents of another classmate are lecturers. But all the students are treated equally in my school and this is what makes me really proud of my school.

Our School Campus:

My school has a three-floor building. All the classrooms here are large and well-maintained. They are always clean. Huge windows in the class allow sufficient sunlight into the rooms. In summers, we also use the air conditioning in the school as the climate here is quite hot and humid.

We also have a huge playground in the school where our daily assembly and all the other activities take place. In the morning assembly, everything is organized by the students only. From playing the instruments to reading the news and helping students make a line to their classrooms, students take care of all the tasks.

What I Enjoy the Most at My School:

It is a day-boarding school. So, all the children get their breakfast and lunch from the school mess itself. The meals served here is hot and fresh. You can get extra servings as many times as you like. Although in the beginning, it was new to my taste buds, I started to like the Oriya cuisine very soon.

There are many extra-curricular activities taught to the students here. To name some, we have a traditional Oriya dance class. Then, there are self-defense classes and an additional class to learn a foreign language of your choice.

Discipline and Conduct:

Discipline and cleanliness form a great part of my school culture. Every day, the seniors form a group for hygiene checking of the juniors. The responsibility of each senior student is fixed. From the shoes to nails and clean dress, everything is checked properly.

The classes in my school start from play way and up to standard 10. Sincerity and punctuality are the key habits of my school. Even the teachers and kids from the lower classes come to school on time and follow every rule.

Once we get inside the school premises, it is not allowed for us to talk in our mother tongue. All the students have to talk to each other in English. And the rules about it are very strict. Though it may sound a severe rule, it has improved our spoken English in a great way.

Extra-curricular Activities:

Our principal likes discipline but she also shows us a lot of affection and warmth. The students can directly go to her for sharing their problems. She also makes sure that we enjoy the teaching of our teachers and not get bored. That is why occasional trips are arranged for us to explore the nearby cities, which I enjoy a lot.

I also look forward to the annual sports day organized at my school. There are so many sports activities to cheer us up and keep our mind and body healthy. I also participate in the annual functions of my school. It is organized at the biggest auditorium in Bhubaneswar. We practice for several days before the final performance on the stage.

My Sweet Memories at the School:

Last year, my classmates and juniors made my birthday so special. My desk was filled with gifts and greeting cards. They showered me with so much love and affection. When I was new here, all my classmates were very helpful and made it easy for me to settle here without much of a problem.

They are also kind enough to teach me their local language ‘Oriya’. With time, I have learned to read and write the basic words and sentences in the language. Our school also introduced us to the habit of writing and sharing letters with our pen-pals.

My school has taught me many valuable such as to help others, to not make fun of others, respecting the elders and loving the young ones. Over time, I have collected many precious memories here and feel grateful to God for allowing me such a rich learning environment.

I would always love my school and no matter where I go, I will always be proud of it all my life.

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How to Write a Stellar “Why This College?” Essay + Examples

What’s covered:, sample “why this college” prompts, faqs about the “why this college” essay.

• Common Mistakes to Avoid

Good “Why This College?” Essay Examples

• Brainstorming for this Essay
• Outlining Your Essay
• Where to Get Your Essay Edited

One of the most common college essay supplements will ask you to answer the question: “Why This College?” These essays are looking to see whether you’re a good fit for the campus community, and whether the college is a good fit for you and your goals. 

In this post, we’ll show you a couple examples of these prompts, go over good and bad sample responses, and break down how to ensure yours is one of the good ones. 

Let’s start by taking a look at real prompts that fit under the “Why This College?” archetype: 

Tufts: Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, ‘Why Tufts?’ (150 words)

Northwestern: Other parts of your application give us a sense for how you might contribute to Northwestern. But we also want to consider how Northwestern will contribute to your interests and goals. Help us understand what aspects of Northwestern appeal most to you, and how you’ll make use of specific resources and opportunities here. (300 words)

As you can see, these prompts are basically asking why you want to attend the school in question. Northwestern spells it out even further, and specifically asks how you’ll use their resources to achieve your goals.

Both prompts have word counts that are much shorter than that of the Common App, which is typical of supplemental essays. These two word counts are pretty representative, and you can expect the “Why This College?” essay length to be 100-400 words on average. That’s not a lot of space for a pretty important question, so it’s especially vital to use the word count wisely.

What are colleges looking for in the “Why Us” essay?

Colleges want to admit students who will not only enroll (to protect their yield), but also thrive on their campus. They ask this question to see whether you’re truly interested in the school and whether it’s the right place for you. You can write a strong response by citing specific ways the college can support your goals, as well as demonstrating your enthusiasm.

Which colleges have a “Why This College?” essay?

This is one of the most popular supplements among colleges. Here is a selection of top schools that ask this question:

• Northwestern
• Boston University
• University of Michigan

Check out our essay guides for these schools for more in-depth advice on how to write these essays.

What kind of writing style should I use?

This is a straightforward question that generally has a short word count, so you don’t need to use a narrative form at all. You can simply explain what you like about the school and why, but try to use varied sentence structure and organize the essay around your major goals. 

You can start your essay with a story if you want, however. For example, if you visited campus and experienced a really interesting course, or sat in on a meeting of a club you liked, this can make for a strong anecdote to begin your essay. Just make sure that whatever story you tell has some substance, and isn’t just a narration of how nice it was to walk around campus.

Can I copy and paste my essay for other schools?

Absolutely not. If your essay is general enough to apply to other schools, you know you need to rewrite it. The resources you mention should be highly specific to the college you’re writing about.

Common Mistakes When Writing the “Why This College?” Essay

The most common mistake students make is listing generic characteristics that could apply to any school. This negatively impacts your application, since it sends the message that you didn’t do your research, and aren’t truly interested in the school.

Here’s an example of something NOT to list in your “Why this college essay.” We’ll take the example of Tufts since we shared the prompt in the beginning.

What NOT to write: I’m applying to Tufts because of its low student to faculty ratio, the strong math department, and its prime location in Medford, just a hop away from Boston. When I visited campus, the school already felt like home.

This example is bad because many schools have low student to faculty ratios and strong math departments. There are also a ton of schools in or near Boston, many of which have low student to faculty ratios and great math departments too, such as Boston College, Harvard, Northeastern, Boston University, etc. If your statements can apply to other schools, that’s definitely not a good sign (avoid things like location, weather, size, and ranking).

The student also uses an emotional appeal with the line “it felt like home,” which might sound nice, but it has no substance and can be written for any school. You should definitely avoid making any statements like these.

This example shows that the student really hasn’t thought much about their fit with Tufts, and that it probably isn’t their top choice. This will impact your application negatively, especially since Tufts is known for taking applicants’ demonstrated interest more seriously than other schools . So, if you show that you show little interest through your essay, you may end up waitlisted or rejected, even if your stats are excellent.

Another thing that this example gets wrong is that it doesn’t describe the student’s goals or interests at all. It’s important to not only talk about why you picked the school, but also how exactly those aspects will help you grow. Remember, this kind of prompt is two-fold: in addition to explaining why the school is a good fit for you, you want to show why you, out of the many thousands of applicants they get each year, are a good fit for them.

To summarize, the main mistakes to avoid are:

• Citing generic aspects of the school (location, weather, size, and ranking)
• Using empty emotional appeals
• Not describing your goals and interests

Now that we know what a bad example might look like, here’s an example of a rewrite to part of the Tufts essay:

What TO write: As a potential Applied Mathematics major, I hope to gain the tools to model political behavior. I’m especially interested in elections, and am looking forward to taking the course “Mathematics of Social Choice,” as the centerpiece of Social Choice Theory is voting. I would also love to take “Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos,” because it will teach me to use differential equations to predict chaotic behavior. 

This is a good example, as the courses listed are highly-specific to Tufts, as well as the student’s professional goals. We not only learned something about Tufts, but also the student. Keep in mind that this wouldn’t be a complete essay⁠—it’s just an example of good, specific resources to list, and how to connect them to your own interests. 

If you want an example of a complete essay, here’s this real student response for Boston University’s “Why This College?” prompt.

Prompt: In no more than 250 words, please tell us why BU is a good fit for you and what

specifically has led you to apply for admission.

Boston University’s College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) attracts me because of its support of interdisciplinary study among its wide array of majors. In fact, the CAS now offers a course that combines biology, chemistry, and neuroscience. As I hope to conduct medical research into brain disorders, I plan to pursue all three areas of study. These cross-disciplinary connections at BU will prepare me to do so.

CAS’s undergraduate research program would allow me to work with a mentor, such as Dr. Alice Cronin-Golomb or Dr. Robert M.G. Reinhart related to their research on neurological disorders. With them, I can advance the work I have already completed related to Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). In a summer class at our local university, my partner and I extracted data from fMRI and PET studies and inputted them into a coding program. We then created an indicator map, which we imported into another software program, AFNI, to display significant activity in the brain regions affected by DID. Seeing the representation of our data thrilled me because I knew it could eventually help people who live with DID. I want to experience that feeling again. Successfully analyzing these fMRI and PET studies and learning to code drives me to pursue more research opportunities, and this desire motivates me to study at a university that offers research opportunities to undergraduates. BU’s interdisciplinary approach to psychology and support for independent undergraduate undergraduate research will optimally prepare me for a career as a neurological researcher.

This student clearly outlines BU-specific resources (the interdisciplinary course and undergrad research program), plus how these resources align with their professional goals (to become a neurological researcher). They do “name-drop” professors, but since their work clearly relates to the student’s interests, it doesn’t look disingenuous, and shows that the student has done research on their fit with BU. The student also provides background on why they want to pursue research, and shows that they already have experience, which makes their interest in the undergrad research program more concrete.

The only thing missing from this essay is the student’s fit with BU in terms of extracurriculars and social life. “Why This College?” essays should also cover extracurriculars, as the residential college experience is about more than just class and homework. Admissions officers are also interested in how you’ll contribute to their broader campus community.

In general, these essays should be academic-leaning (especially if they’re under 250 words), but you should still address some social aspects of the college that appeal to you (we recommend about 70% academics, 30% social, with more or less focus on social aspects depending on the word count). Since the student probably already detailed their previous research in their Common App activities section, they could’ve just summarized their research background in one sentence, and used the space saved to talk about a specific social aspect of BU that interests them.

Here’s another sample essay, but for UPenn. This essay’s word count was much longer, so the student was able to really hone in on several specific aspects of UPenn.

Prompt: How will you explore your intellectual and academic interests at the University of Pennsylvania? Please answer this question given the specific undergraduate school to which you are applying (650 words).

Sister Simone Roach, a theorist of nursing ethics, said, “caring is the human mode of being.” I have long been inspired by Sister Roach’s Five C’s of Caring: commitment, conscience, competence, compassion, and confidence. Penn both embraces and fosters these values through a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum and unmatched access to service and volunteer opportunities.

COMMITMENT. Reading through the activities that Penn Quakers devote their time to (in addition to academics!) felt like drinking from a firehose in the best possible way. As a prospective nursing student with interests outside of my major, I value this level of flexibility. I plan to leverage Penn’s liberal arts curriculum to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges LGBT people face, especially regarding healthcare access. Through courses like “Interactional Processes with LGBT Individuals” and volunteering at the Mazzoni Center for outreach, I hope to learn how to better support the Penn LGBT community as well as my family and friends, including my cousin, who came out as trans last year.

CONSCIENCE. As one of the first people in my family to attend a four-year university, I wanted a school that promoted a sense of moral responsibility among its students. At Penn, professors challenge their students to question and recreate their own set of morals by sparking thought- provoking, open-minded discussions. I can imagine myself advocating for universal healthcare in courses such as “Health Care Reform & Future of American Health System” and debating its merits with my peers. Studying in an environment where students confidently voice their opinions – conservative or liberal – will push me to question and strengthen my value system.

COMPETENCE. Two aspects that drew my attention to Penn’s BSN program were its high-quality research opportunities and hands-on nursing projects. Through its Office of Nursing Research, Penn connects students to faculty members who share similar research interests. As I volunteered at a nursing home in high school, I hope to work with Dr. Carthon to improve the quality of care for senior citizens. Seniors, especially minorities, face serious barriers to healthcare that I want to resolve. Additionally, Penn’s unique use of simulations to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application impressed me. Using computerized manikins that mimic human responses, classes in Penn’s nursing program allow students to apply their emergency medical skills in a mass casualty simulation and monitor their actions afterward through a video system. Participating in this activity will help me identify my strengths and areas for improvement regarding crisis management and medical care in a controlled yet realistic setting. Research opportunities and simulations will develop my skills even before I interact with patients.

COMPASSION. I value giving back through community service, and I have a particular interest in Penn’s Community Champions and Nursing Students For Sexual & Reproductive Health (NSRH). As a four-year volunteer health educator, I hope to continue this work as a Community Champions member. I am excited to collaborate with medical students to teach fourth and fifth graders in the city about cardiology or lead a chair dance class for the elders at the LIFE Center. Furthermore, as a feminist who firmly believes in women’s abortion rights, I’d like to join NSRH in order to advocate for women’s health on campus. At Penn, I can work with like-minded people to make a meaningful difference.

CONFIDENCE. All of the Quakers that I have met possess one defining trait: confidence. Each student summarized their experiences at Penn as challenging but fulfilling. Although I expect my coursework to push me, from my conversations with current Quakers I know it will help me to be far more effective in my career.

The Five C’s of Caring are important heuristics for nursing, but they also provide insight into how I want to approach my time in college. I am eager to engage with these principles both as a nurse and as a Penn Quaker, and I can’t wait to start.

This student takes a creative approach to the essay, by using the Five C’s of Caring as a framework. This technique works especially well since these qualities relate to the student’s future career in nursing. In addition to emphasizing the student’s creativity and passion for nursing, having the Five C’s in all caps at the start of each paragraph gives this long essay a clear, easy-to-read format.

What really makes the essay stand out is the depth of the student’s fit with UPenn, and how they’re able to also share more about who they are. The student lists specific courses, research opportunities, technology, and student groups. We also learn that they are a first-generation student, are passionate about increasing access to healthcare (particularly for LGBTQ+ people, minorities, and the elderly), care about health education, and are a feminist who staunchly defends abortion rights (this controversial topic could be risky, but since UPenn is a very liberal school, this should be fine).

Overall, this essay paints a vivid picture of how the student would engage academically at Penn, and we also see clearly how the student would pursue their intellectual passions outside the classroom. Since this essay prompt focused on “intellectual and academic interests,” there was no need to address other aspects of UPenn beyond those supporting their various interests in healthcare.

See more “ Why This College?” essay examples to understand what makes a strong response.

Brainstorming for the “Why This College?” Essay

Now that we’ve gone through a couple examples, you might be wondering how to get started yourself. 

Here are three steps we recommend to get your essay underway:

• Reflect on your academic and career goals
• Research unique opportunities related to your academic and extracurricular interests
• Pick your top academic reasons for applying, and your top extracurricular/social reasons

1. Reflect on your academic and career goals.

The driver behind this essay needs to be you , and not the school itself. Anyone can write nice things about the college, but only you can explain why you would be a good fit for it.

Ask yourself:

• What do you want to major in, if you know? If you’re undecided, what are the subjects you’re interested in?
• Which career do you want to pursue, or what are the potential options?
• What do you want to get out of college? Any particular skills or experiences?

Once you have a clear idea of your college plan, then you can dig into how the college can support your plan.

2. Research unique opportunities related to your academic, career, and extracurricular interests.

You might be wondering where you can find all these specific courses, clubs, and other resources. The school’s website is a good place to start, or if you have a general idea of what you’re looking for, you can even use Google with the school name in your search, such as “Tufts orchestra.” 

Take a look at the website of your department/major and dig into the courses, fellowships, internships, and other resources. For course syllabi, you can visit the website of the professor who’s teaching the course; they’ll often post more detailed information than the online course catalog, including readings and concepts to be covered.

Clubs may have their own websites, but you can also try to find their Facebook groups or Instagram pages, which might be more current and even show events they’re hosting⁠.

If you can, try to speak with a current student. Your school counselor may be able to connect you with one, or you can also reach out to the admissions office to see if they can connect you. If not, speaking with an admissions officer is also great, or you can try to find day-in-the-life videos on YouTube.

3. Pick your top academic reasons for applying, and your top extracurricular/social reasons.

Once you’ve done your research and found specific opportunities to cite in your essay, pick your top 1-3 academic reasons and top 1-3 extracurricular ones, depending on the word count. Going back to the Tufts essay, the good example we gave actually was already 65 words, and it was only able to mention two courses. 

Keep in mind that you not only have to describe resources specific to the school, but also how they’ll contribute to your goals. This personal aspect is just as important as the actual opportunities, so be sure to allot space to describe why exactly these resources make the school a good fit for you.

When it comes to academic reasons, you are free to list anything from special programs to unique majors to specific courses and professors. We want to caution you against “name-dropping” professors, however⁠—unless their work actually fits with your established interests and professional goals. Otherwise, it might seem like you’re being disingenuous.

We also want to reiterate that you should be sure to not only talk about academics in your essay, but also extracurriculars (unless the prompt asks you to focus only on academics, or if the word count is unusually short, i.e. 150 words or fewer). Again, college isn’t just about what you do in the classroom. Admissions committees want to be sure that accepted students will also contribute to the college community. 

Outlining Your “Why This College?” Essay

Once you’ve identified your goals and the resources to support them, it’s time to start writing. An easy format/outline for your essay would be:

• Introduction to your main goals and the why behind them (great spot for an anecdote). 
• Your first goal and how the school can support it.
• Your second goal and how the school can support it.
• Conclusion where you look towards the future and reaffirm how the college can get you there.

You can adjust the length of the essay by adding or subtracting the number of goals you write about. As noted above, r emember to include extracurriculars when sharing how the college can support your goals. You should plan to spend about 70% of your space on academic reasons, and 30% on extracurricular reasons.

Some students choose to use a more unconventional format, like the Five C’s of Caring essay above, and that works too if you want to show off your creative writing skills. Some examples include a letter to the school or a schedule of your day as a student at the college. These unconventional formats can be harder to pull off though, so only go that route if you’re confident in your writing. The letter format can be especially tricky since it’s easy to sound cheesy and overenthusiastic.

Regardless of the format you choose, remember these two things that your essay should do. It should:

• Reveal more about your goals and interests.
• D escribe how the school can help you develop your interests and reach your goals, by naming highly-specific and unique campus resources, both academic and extracurricular.

If your essay checks both of those boxes, you’re well on your way to making your candidacy more compelling to admissions officers!

Where to Get Your “Why This College?” Essay Edited

Do you want feedback on your “Why This College?” essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Public School Quality and Its Relationship With Location Within the American Class Structure Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Works Cited

Originally, numerous factors influence the quality of any public school. The fact is that the professionalism and qualification of the teaching personnel is one of the most important. As for the location of the school, few researchers have argued on this factor, as directly it does not influence any educational process, nevertheless, the location of a public school defines the geographic range of the students who will be studying in this school and tutors, who will be working in the school.

Nevertheless, it is not a defining factor, and, it should be emphasized that the original value of the location factor is closely emphasized with the matters of the socio-economic environment of the school. Thus, this paper aims to argue on the matters of the socio-economic environments of different schools and compare it with the school, which is marked as “Your School” in the datasheet. The argumentation will also touch upon the matters of input and experience of the educational personnel.

The most important factor of the socio-economic analysis is the percentage of the various ethnic groups and national minorities, which are represented among students. Thus, the analyzed school is regarded as the school with the largest ethnic diversity. In comparison with the other schools, the percentage of Asian students is the largest. The same is with Filipino, Hispanic and Pacific students. Nevertheless, the amount of white students and African Americans is the lowest (in comparison with the other schools), which means that the analyzed school is located in an ethnically diverse region. Because the analysis of the quality is closely associated with the socio-economic environment, it should be emphasized that the ethnic diversity of the schools is the direct consequence of the geographic location of the school. In the light of the represented data, it should be emphasized that the necessity to regard the quality of the school educational performance through the prism of ethnic diversity may be grounded by the values of education in general. Thus, the Total Quality Approaches, which may be applied for the allover performance of the school management may be associated with the cultural values of the ethnic groups.

Another factor of the socio-economic environment is the size of the school. This factor defines the capacity of the school, and the number of students, the school will be able to educate. As for the size of the school, Smith (352) emphasized the following statement:

How we define large and small makes a difference in understanding the relationships of size, cost, and quality. What is small in a densely-populated New England state may be large in mostly rural Northwestern Minnesota where transportation time and costs are bigger factors. Distinctions between schools and school districts are also important. A large district could have many small schools; a small district could have one large school.

The size of the analyzed school is the largest among all the three analyzed schools. It enrolls 2740 students; nevertheless, the amount of those students who did not receive any graduation after public school is one of the least. On the one hand, these indicators are defined by the largest amount of students, on the other hand, the total amount of those who did not receive any graduation (not percentage) is comparatively the same. Thus, this can not be regarded as the indicator of the quality level, consequently, it is the direct consequence of the social environment. In the light of this consideration, it should be emphasized that the necessity to argue on the matters of the size of the school provides an opportunity to analyze the percentage of the students who proceeded with their higher education, and students who did not. Originally, this factor is closely associated with the size of the school. On the other hand, this size may be the reason for the size of the district, where the school is located. The district size is generally referred to as the entire process of education, starting from kindergarten and up to the twelfth year of school education.

Originally, the economic environment of the school defines the level of difficulty with problem families and students, originating from these families. Originally, it should be emphasized that such statistics are best shown based on the further education of the students. Thus, by the available data, the available educational level is one of the highest (94%). Considering the size of the school, the amount of students is the highest. The percentage of those who did not graduate from high school is lower than the average indicators, and the same is on the matters of those who graduated the high school.

Basing on these indicators, it is possible to estimate the socio-economic environment of the schools, as the future education of the school leavers may be used as an indicator of the effectiveness of the education process, which is, in its turn, defined by the socio-economic environment of the geographic position.

The following factor, which may be used for the analysis of the school effectiveness, and the values of the educational process is the input. The governmental investments into the educational system of various geographic regions may be regarded as the indicator of the school’s effectiveness. Thus, the high investment rates may signify the extensive development of the school, and the effective educational performance of the school. As Walker et al. (186) claimed:

Inputs are factors that makeup what the school or district has to offer its students. They include money, books, materials, equipment, attributes of teachers and specialized staff, course offerings, and facilities. Recent research indicates that spending more money does not necessarily mean improved student achievement. This does not discount the fact that costs vary across the country and within states due to differences in the distances students travel to the school and related transportation costs. It does suggest factors other than money make a bigger difference in how well students learn.

The factor of the input is hard to relate to the socio-economic environment of the school, nevertheless, the aims of these inputs may be analyzed through this perspective. Thus, if the finances are invested in the educational materials, it means that the educational process is effective, and the school is developing. If the materials are invested for the restoration of the building or educational materials, the socio-economic environment is not favorable for the effective development of the educational process.

The most important factor, which is not associated with the socio-economic environment of the school, but which influences the educational performance of the personnel is the experience and credentials of the teaching personnel. As for this factor, it should be emphasized that the factor of professionalism is quantifiable, and, as Griffin (34) emphasizes, this factor reflects the aspects of the teaching quality, showing the effectiveness of the teaching process on the instances of the teacher’s actions. As is emphasized by Campbell et.al.(203)

Techniques such as mastery learning, cooperative learning, parental involvement, and homework are among the practices increasingly seen as effective means to improving educational quality. In the light of this fact, it is emphasized that students learn better in schools that “do a few things well” through a limited, focused curriculum.

In the light of this perspective, it should be stated that the performance of the educational process, which is assessed based on the students’ performance may be considered objective, nevertheless, it will not be full.

Finally, it should be stated that the educational and professional performance of the analyzed school is closely associated with several factors. One of the most important is ethnic diversity, as students are treated equally by each other, and the cultural values of various ethnic groups are valued in the educational process. Another factor is the size of the school, nevertheless, it is not as important as the input factor, thus, input and the economic characteristics of the school and students (as well as their families) may be used for assessing the effectiveness of the educational process. Finally, the teacher’s performance, experience, and license should be regarded as the defining factor of educational effectiveness.

Campbell, Jim, Leonidas Kyriakides, Daniel Muijs, and Wendy Robinson. Assessing Teacher Effectiveness: Developing a Differentiated Model . New York: RoutledgeFalmer, 2004.

Griffin, Robert S. Underachievers in Secondary School: Education off the Mark . Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 2008.

Smith, Mortimer. And Madly Teach: A Layman Looks at Public School Education . Chicago: Henry Regnery Company, 2002.

Walker, Susan K., and David A. Riley. “Involvement of the Personal Social Network as a Factor in Education Effectiveness.” Family Relations 50.2 (2001): 186

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IvyPanda. (2021, December 12). Public School Quality and Its Relationship With Location Within the American Class Structure. https://ivypanda.com/essays/public-school-quality-and-its-relationship-with-location-within-the-american-class-structure/

"Public School Quality and Its Relationship With Location Within the American Class Structure." IvyPanda , 12 Dec. 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/public-school-quality-and-its-relationship-with-location-within-the-american-class-structure/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Public School Quality and Its Relationship With Location Within the American Class Structure'. 12 December.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Public School Quality and Its Relationship With Location Within the American Class Structure." December 12, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/public-school-quality-and-its-relationship-with-location-within-the-american-class-structure/.

1. IvyPanda . "Public School Quality and Its Relationship With Location Within the American Class Structure." December 12, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/public-school-quality-and-its-relationship-with-location-within-the-american-class-structure/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Public School Quality and Its Relationship With Location Within the American Class Structure." December 12, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/public-school-quality-and-its-relationship-with-location-within-the-american-class-structure/.

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US school shooting suspect, 14, questioned about threats last year

A boy accused of killing four people at his high school in Georgia was interviewed last year by police about anonymous online threats, the FBI has said.

Colt Gray, 14, denied to police in May 2023 he was behind internet posts that contained images of guns, warning of a school shooting.

The suspect opened fire on Wednesday at Apalachee High School in the city of Winder, killing two teachers and two pupils, investigators say. Eight students and one teacher were injured.

He was arrested on campus. Gray was charged with four counts of murder on Thursday and will face court on Friday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said.

Police have identified the victims as teachers Christina Irimie and Richard Aspinwall and 14-year-old students Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo.

In a news conference, Georgia Bureau of Investigation director Chris Hosey said the gun used was an "AR-platform style weapon".

• What we know about the victims
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• LISTEN: What's it like for a school principal dealing with a shooting?

The FBI said its National Threat Operations Center had alerted local law enforcement in May 2023 after receiving anonymous tips about "online threats to commit a school shooting at an unidentified location and time".

The agency said that within 24 hours investigators had determined that the threats originated in Georgia.

Sheriff's deputies interviewed the boy and his father, who "stated he had hunting guns in the house, but the subject did not have unsupervised access to them", the FBI said.

The suspect, who was 13 years old at the time, denied making the online threats and officials "alerted local schools for continued monitoring of the subject".

"At the time, there was no probable cause for an arrest or to take any additional law enforcement action on the local, state or federal levels," added the FBI statement.

Sheriff Jud Smith described the attack as "pure evil" and said officers were on scene within minutes of receiving emergency calls at 10:20 local time (14:20 GMT).

Two officers assigned to the school "immediately encountered the subject" and the boy "immediately surrendered", the sheriff said.

The boy has been interviewed and spoke with investigators once while in custody, Mr Smith said.

He added that no motive had been identified and that law enforcement did not know of "any targets at this point".

Students described chaotic scenes as alerts went out that an attacker was on campus. Classes at Apalachee began last month, but many students across the US are returning to schools this week.

Lyela Sayarath, who was in the alleged attacker's class, told CNN that the suspect left the room at the beginning of an algebra lesson.

She said he came back and knocked on the door, which had locked automatically, but another student refused to let him in after noticing he had a gun.

Lyela told CNN the attacker then went to the classroom next door, where he began shooting.

Marques Coleman, 14, said he saw the attacker holding a "big gun" just before the shooting began.

"I got up, I started running, he started shooting like, like 10 times. He shot at least 10 times," he told CBS News, the BBC's US partner.

"My teacher started barricading the door with desks," he said.

After standing up, the pupil said he saw "one of my classmates on the ground bleeding so bad", another girl shot in the leg and a friend shot in the stomach.

A vigil was held on Wednesday evening in the city of 18,000 residents about 50 miles (80km) from Atlanta.

This was the 23rd US school shooting of 2024, according to a database maintained by magazine Education Week, which counts 11 dead and 38 injured in such attacks so far this year.

David Riedman, who runs the K-12 School Shooting Database, told Reuters news agency that the shooting in Georgia was the first "planned attack" at a school during this autumn term.

How to Tackle the “Why Us” School-Specific Essay (with Examples!)

Of all the supplemental college essays out there, the “Why Us?” essay is the most difficult to master, especially when you have to write one for each school on your college list. So, how do you convince admissions officers at each college you belong there, while staying true to yourself?   With AdmitSee’s database of successful application files we will show you essay examples that address key elements every “Why Us” supplemental essay should include.

1. Example with a UMich Essay Excerpt

It’s essential to talk about the school you’re applying to. After all, you are answering the question “Why Us”? What makes this specific school you’re applying to stand out from others?

• Talk about your academic interests and how the school you’re applying can help you explore that
• Be specific about the academic programs at the university
• Are these academic programs unique? Are they the best? If there’s other schools have this program, why theirs?

  “Throughout high school, I discovered that I enjoy a variety of subjects; therefore, I am entering Michigan with an undeclared major. However, I am not exactly undecided; rather, I am multi-interested. I love the areas of mathematics and statistics, yet the economy and government fascinates me as well. Still, the field of art history beckons me, and luckily the University of Michigan has enough museums to pursue endless hours of thorough art appreciation. Thankfully, LSA allows me to explore a plethora of majors found in the various colleges of the University of Michigan. With forty top ten programs, no matter what major I ultimately chose, I can feel assured that I will be working with the most talented and experienced faculty. In addition, University of Michigan’s research program, one of the best in the United States, will allow me to make discoveries and contributions as an undergraduate student. The University of Michigan is the ideal school for me, and has been my number one since I first saw the maize and blue uniforms take Michigan Stadium by storm.” – MichiganMath, ‘19   In this excerpt, the author starts by talking her interests in a number of fields, thereby leading her to show off her knowledge about UMich’s academic programs. She is concise about how each of her interest can be furthered by the opportunities that University of Michigan can offer her if she’s accepted. In a paragraph, she demonstrated how her interests and resources at UMich are an ideal match without simply regurgitating informative facts about UMich.

2. Example with a Barnard Essay Excerpt

  Don’t forget this is a part of your college application! Every supplement you send in should provide another perspective of who you are.  

• This is another opportunity for you to highlight something about yourself that you weren’t able to in our common app personal statement
• What other information about yourself will help paint a full picture of who you are in your application?

  “Not only is NYC an incredibly diverse place, but Barnard is as well. The unique backgrounds of its community members create a compelling dynamic in and out of the classroom. I grew up in a half French and half Chinese household, which gave me a very different perspective than a lot of my peers. My father grew up in France, then immigrated to San Francisco after living in the Congo. My mother grew up in China, then immigrated to Wisconsin after living in Nigeria. Throughout my childhood, I was lucky enough to be able to learn multiple points of views from my parents because of their unique backgrounds, leading to a fascinating upbringing which I believe Barnard students possess as well.” – ccg32, ‘19   The author of this excerpt draws a parallel between the diverse background of NYC and her own. She uses this opportunity to share how incredibly diverse her family background is and what that has done for her. In fact, she’s able to share this intimate detail to connect to the community of Barnard students, again pointing out she’s an ideal prospective student.  

3. Examples with NYU Excerpt

  Finally, think about this supplemental essay as a way to express how compatible you are with the college you are applying to.  

• You can talk about university programs in relation to your interests, but you can also connect it to something about you.
• This is how you connect point 1 + 2

  “Never have I encountered an atmosphere so invigorating and so impassioned as I found during my visit to NYU. It is this passion that unites the urban campus and forms a profound sense of unity within its diversity. I could want nothing more than to one day call myself a part of this motivational community, building relationships with people who share my passion for helping others and who will both value my talents as well as challenge me to grow. As a student at NYU, I could continue my tutoring and mentoring work through the university’s America Reads program or explore my love for travelling while providing invaluable aid as a part of the unique option for alternative breaks. Regardless of what path I find myself taking as NYU opens my eyes to growth and change, I know that an education and an experience spent in such a special community is one that has the potential to change my life and make an everlasting impact.” – Katiedolci ‘19   Here you see the author use the university’s programs and unique offerings to demonstrate the author’s own interests and passion. She explicitly mentions programs that NYU offers to highlight the extracurriculars she’s been involved with. By doing so, she has also subtly emphasized her compassionate nature and desire to help others not only in the area she studies, but in her free time as well.   Want to see more successful examples? AdmitSee has the largest database of successful college application files to help you through the admission season. View full college essays in the context of the rest of their application to better understand how to craft the best version of yours.

A math major turned growth hacker, Frances has worked in PR and marketing in Hong Kong, New York and San Francisco. ​ AdmitSee is her third edtech startup, coming from Course Hero and Purpella.​ Frances was born in Hong Kong and received her bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University. ​Fun Fact: ​Frances was a certified and licensed EMT during her time at Georgetown.

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Guest Essay

High Schoolers Need to Do Less So That They Can Do Better

By Tim Donahue

Mr. Donahue teaches high school English at Greenwich Country Day School in Connecticut.

To earn the distinction of valedictorian at Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton, Calif., a student must maintain a straight-A average and take at least 32 honors-level, semester-long classes. One weak “Gatsby” essay during these four years, one math test taken after an ankle sprain, one poorly conjugated verb can put a leak in the boat. And yet this past May, 39 of the 606 graduating seniors maintained the buoyancy to become valedictorians.

This is hardly unusual. In 2022, Edison High in Fresno, Calif., had 115 valedictorians in the class of 558. In 2017, Central Magnet School in Murfreesboro, Tenn., had 48 out of 193. And in 2019, Washington Liberty High in Arlington, Va., had 213 earning the top honor in their class of 595.

In the way some teachers sniff out A.I.-generated essays, some colleges engage in “countermeasures” to decode the truth behind the ever-increasing numbers of ever-improving transcripts they read. But the bigger truth is that many colleges just throw up their hands and don’t factor in weighted G.P.A.s (scaled according to the difficulty of the class) at all. So the same students who are now sweating on the too-hot turf during early-season practices are going to sweat through lots and lots of classes whose contents they can’t possibly retain in order to simply tread water.

We have pushed high school students into maximizing every part of their days and nights. Those who take the bait are remarkably compliant, diluting themselves between their internships and Canva presentations. We condition students to do a so-so job and then move on to the next thing. We need to let them slow down. Critical cognition, by definition, takes time.

The underbelly of grade inflation is that now the ambitious student must clear more time in their schedule for the stuff that really makes a difference. Harvard’s dean of undergraduate education, Amanda Claybaugh, said: “Students feel the need to distinguish themselves outside the classroom because they are essentially indistinguishable inside the classroom. Extracurriculars, which should be stress-relieving, become stress-producing.”

“When we are overloaded with mental activity,” wrote Leidy Klotz, the author of “Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less,” “we are less likely to think about taking things off of our plates. So, this overload that students get into creates a feedback loop that is hard to get out of. The more overloaded they are, the more likely they are to rely on heuristic thinking, and that heuristic thinking is going to tell them to add things first.”

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Essay on My School

Table of Contents

My School Essay: School is a place where we learn and grow. It is a place where we make friends and memories. School is also a place where we learn about the world around us. We learn to read, write, and think critically. We learn to solve problems and to think creatively. School is a place where we can be ourselves and where we can find our place in the world.

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Also Check: Essay on My School Life

For most people, school is the first place where they are introduced to a variety of different subjects. At school, we learn about math, science, English, history, and many other subjects. We also learn about different cultures and different ways of life. All of this helps us to develop our own unique perspective on the world.

Short and Long Essay on My School

We have provided short and long essays below on My School in English for your information and knowledge. These My School essay have been written in simple yet effective language to make them easily memorable and presentable when required.

After going through the essays, you will know all the essential qualities my school imparts in me, the role my school plays in my life, the social services my school involve in, and how my school helps in my overall physical and mental development, etc.

Following My School essay will be beneficial in essay writing , debate, and other similar competitions.

Essay on My School in 100 Words

I always look forward to spending every day in my school. I am happy about going to my school, meeting friends, interacting with teachers, and learning new things. Being in school is like being in a place where friends and family always surround me. Moreover, it is like a family that provides me with education and other necessary skills.

My school is like a home away from home, where I don’t feel out of place or homesick. It is a place where I learn, laugh, smile, play, and enjoy. It stirred up many emotions in me for good reasons, and I will always be thankful to my school and wonderful teachers.

My School Essay in 150 Words

• My school is where I get educate and train in other necessary competitive skills like sports, music, and dance. It has a dedicated teacher for all the subjects and extracurricular activities like music and sports.
• It also has a well-equipped library, ranging from course books to storybooks and books based on science and technology. There is always so much to learn, and I love spending time in my school’s library.
• It is also the safest place I have ever been, and there is ample security staff to keep an eye on students and visitors. Entering the premises of my school without being frisk by security personnel is almost impossible.

Essay on My School in 200 Words

My school doesn’t have a big campus like other schools in the city. It is like a four-story building with a small garden at the centre. Despite the space constraint, I have never felt its absence, and I spend a wonderful time at school almost daily.

We have regular classes and good teachers who attend to all our needs and questions. I feel like being at home in my school. I have never felt homesick and sometimes don’t want to go home after school.

Learning new things and a healthy environment keeps me engaged and always busy for good. I never get bore at school and always strive to improve every day. Apart from education, my school also makes necessary improvements to my personality.

It is where my aspirations get winged, and I get the strength and confidence to realize them. No other place in the world could replace my school and its role in my life. I will always be thankful to my friends, teachers, and school staff for making it such a comfortable and educational place of learning.

Also Check: Paragraph on My School

My School Essay in 250 Words

My school is just a few kilometers from the city centre and easily accessible by road. It has a sprawling green campus with a beautiful garden and a large ground. The garden lies at the centre and can be viewed by almost all classes. We often sit in the garden during recess and take our lunch, but we care not to make it dirty or spill food.

My school is also a wonderful place where my personality gets shaped, and my intellect gets improved with education. It transforms me from a living human to a more sensible and meaningful self, with dreams, aspirations, and the confidence to achieve them.

It does so many wonderful things in my life. I learn music, dance, play sports, take part in competitions and show my skills to others. I also know how to behave and carry myself in society.

There is much more than education that I will be grateful to my school for providing me. I learn about the social and other issues that hamper the nation’s growth. I also learn how we can overcome these obstacles and set our country on the path of progress.

Every time I think of my school, I think of it as a temple of education. A temple where my soul meets education, making my life more meaningful and useful to society and the nation.

Essay on My School in 300 Words

My school is a government primary school located on the city’s outskirts. Usually, when people think about a government school, they perceive it to be at an isolated location and have poor basic amenities and teaching facilities. But, despite being a government school, my school defies all such speculations.

My School’s Amenities

I am proud of all its basic amenities, keeping in mind the requirements of its students and staff. My school has separate toilets for boys, girls, and staff. The toilets are regularly cleaned twice daily by the cleaning staff. Moreover, there is also a clean drinking water facility for students.

My school’s support staff and teachers care for every student and their needs. Every student is personally attended to and made feel at home.

Also Check: Speech on My School

Social Objectives/Services of My School

Apart from regular classes, my school is also involved in various social activities. We regularly organize programs in nearby villages to promote education and make people more aware of the importance of education. Along with our teachers, we persuade people to send their children to school, be it a boy or a girl. We successful in our effort so far and make the nearby villages 100% literate. We also distribute books and other school items to children from economically backward families. We also participate in various other campaigns like polio drop, Beti Bachao Beti padhao, right to education, etc.

My School Essay in 350 Words

My school imparts education and other essential qualities in me, making me more confident and energetic. My school’s campus is like my second home, where I meet my extended family of friends, teachers, and staff.

Role of My School in Education

My school is primarily responsible for my education. From an educational point of view, it is very important in my life. It is where I get educated not only on the subjects but also on loads of other matters related to life.

Also Check: Essay on My School Library

Besides the bookish education and exams, my school enhances my education in music, sports, general knowledge, etc. Interacting with other students and my teachers on a specific topic always made me learn new information I was unaware of.

My school also conducts competitions like essay writing, debate, and speeches from time to time. Preparing for these competitions and gathering information from relevant sources, books, and people enhances my level of education and confidence.

Role of My School in Personality Development

The role my school plays in my personality development is unprecedented. It imparts education and teaches me how to conduct myself and behave decently and adequately.

I get trained in all the other necessary life skills, like keeping calm in challenging situations and helping others. My school teaches me to be a good and evolved human and always stay composed and progress. It also teaches me to be kind and generous to others and not differentiate them based on their caste, religion, ethnicity, or other divisions. These are some essential personality traits my school imparted in me, which I will always be thankful for.

My School Essay in 400 Words

My school is located in the heart of the city. It is a well-known institution applauded for its education methods and devoted teaching staff. My school plays a very significant role in my life. It is like a launchpad from where I begin my life’s journey.

My School – Where Learning is Fun

Schools are the centre of learning. We attend classes on various subjects, interact with the teachers, get our queries answered, and appear in exam Learning is more like a fun activity in my school because of the extra-talented teaching staff.

My teachers are knowledgeable about their subjects and skilled enough to teach through fun activities. For example, our physics teacher explains every concept by stating real-life examples we could relate to. This way, we understand the subject better but don’t feel like we are studying.

Moreover, not a moment do I remember when any teacher had ever replied rudely to any of the students. They always patiently listen and provide answers to all the queries posed to them. Learning at my school is fun and made possible only because of the teachers.

Importance of My School in My Life

My school is even more important in my life than my family. My family gives me love, care, and affection and provides for all my other essential needs. But, all of this isn’t enough to make me a good human being and succeed in life. Education is necessary for success in life, and only my school provides it to me. Without my school hitting the education, I would be like a confused and wandering soul, almost aimless in life.

Fortunately, I am lucky enough to be enrolled in a prestigious school and gain a wonderful education, and I am looking forward to realizing my dreams.

Below are the related topics of Essays available at IL

My School Essay 500 Words

My School is the institution where I get an education and make progress toward my life goals. Besides education, there are several significant roles that my school plays in my life. It develops my physical and mental stamina, instills confidence, and gives me tremendous opportunities to prove my skills and talents in different fields.

My Feelings about My School

I look at my school with a great sense of pride and love. I am proud of my school because of its education and other essential skills it teaches fellow students and me. I am always thankful to my teachers for their teaching and support.

It feels so great to be in my school and part of everyday activities, be it lectures, sports, or something else. While in school, I always feel happy, confident, enthusiastic, and loved. I know the teachers will answer every question that crosses my mind. I also know that my school friends will always be at my side whenever I need them.

Lastly, I also feel responsible for my school and its reputation. I know that people outside relate my behavior to the school I study in; therefore, when on campus or out, I keep my behavior well and note any bad name about my school.

To sum it up, my feelings about my school are more or less the same as I feel about my family. Just a bit more meaningful than the family.

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My School Activities

Schools are known to be where you have to sit for long hours, moving from one period to another and doing classwork. Happily, my school activities involve much more than subjective studies. Of course, we do have regular classes, but we also have a load of other activities like sports, games, dancing, music, etc. There is a specific time dedicated to extracurricular activities.

As much as on the studies, my school also stresses these activities as the management thinks that the extracurricular activities are essential for our overall personality development.

My school provides dedicated teachers and staff for each extracurricular activity. We have a big sports ground with all the major sports, a covered auditorium for dance and music, and a separate basketball court.

Personality Development at My School

My school helps in my educational and overall personality development. It imparts education through classes, tests, and exams; it teaches me how to conduct myself confidently, deal with adversities and failures, etc.

I have friends at school who I will never forget and always love. My family supports my materialistic needs, but school is where my actual physical, social and mental development takes place.

My School Essay in English 10 lines

• My School name is Delhi Public School.
• My school is close to my home.
• It is considered the top school in our city.
• The language of instruction in my school is English.
• There’s a small playground at my school.
• The school building is quite large.
• There are twenty teachers who work at my school.
• The teachers are nice and caring.
• I like going to school every day.
• I feel proud to be a part of my school.

Essay on My School FAQs

How do i write an english essay about my school.

You can start by describing your school's name, location, and appearance. Then, talk about your favorite things about the school, like teachers, friends, or activities.

Why do I like my school essay for class 2?

You can say you like your school because of your friends, interesting lessons, fun activities, and the caring teachers.

What is my dream for my school?

My dream for my school is to have more exciting extracurricular activities, a colorful playground, and even kinder teachers.

How do you write 5 sentences about school?

Start with an introduction about your school, mention your favorite subjects, teachers, friends, activities, and why you enjoy going there.

How do I write about my dream?

When writing about your dream, explain what you wish for in the future. Be clear and share why it's important to you.

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Importance of school location and security

Students spend their maximum hours in school. As such it is natural that you would be concerned with the wellbeing of your children inside the school premise. 

As parents, you do not possess many options in your disposal, that shall aid you in providing constant surveillance and security to your child inside the school campus.

However, you can take certain precautions and steps to ensure the protection of your child despite the constriction as follows –

• Learn about all the possible travel routes to school: Acquire the knowledge regarding all the roads that are taken for travelling to and fro school and relay it to your child as well.In 2017, around 827,000 adolescents aged 12 to 18 were victims of nonviolent crimes on their school grounds. A further 503,000 students were victims of school-related violence outside of school.   It is more important to do so if the child travels all by self. Ingrain in their mind, to take the ones that are most used by pedestrians.  You can also submit a memorandum in collaboration with other parents to concerned authority proposing  route safety audit at regular interval to maintain the adjoining roads
• Keeping Emergency Numbers: Mishaps and accident occur out of blue, hence its best to keep emergency number in hands. Familiarize your children with it as well. In case an occasion arises where they might find themselves in a fix, they can contact for help given such means exist.
• Self Defense and Road Safety tutorials: Students should be coached with self-defence classes so that they can protect themselves when pushed to a corner and escape a dangerous situation. In same regards vigilance regarding road safety should also be imbibed among them from a young age as road accident is among the top ten causes of death among students.
• Counter Implicit threats: Within school, bullying, discrimination and abuse are not uncommon occurrences. The parties involved are often of the same age; hence you cannot arbitrarily intrude in such affairs. Though there exist many cases where the proprietor turns out to be adult. In the case of later, you can take direct action but in the case of former, your intrusion might exaggerate the problem. There shall be a time where you might not be even aware of it. To assist your child to have a good experience at school and prevent psychological scaring or any such drastic situation from occurring in future,  counsel them regarding the abrasive position they might find themselves in and teach them the ways to overcome it. Nurture trust between your child and you, so that they may turn to you when the situation takes a drastic turn so that you can come to aid at such juncture where there exist no leeway.
• First Aid Awareness: Injuries can occur to anyone and it is normal for a child to get hurt more than once in a while at school.In 2020-21, there were 93 school shootings involving fatalities at public and private elementary and secondary schools, the highest number since 2000-01.  Hence,  basic first aid knowledge should be relayed to him or her so that they can attend to their wounds. You can also prepare for them a mini F.A.T Kit that they can make use of to patch themselves up after scalding their knee or bumping their head.

How school location site resonates with security?

Apparently, to many people, the school premise site may have little to do with security and more with creating a conducive environment for learning While at home, you can take measures to shield your child from any potential threat, there is little that you can do overtly to secure your child safe at school. As such selecting a school with a convenient location and effective security system is the only thing that you can do to safeguard to your child.Students from metropolitan regions saw the greatest reduction in gang participation at school, from 29% in 2001 to 11% in 2017. ( Bureau of Justice , 2017) A good school location fulfils certain criteria as well connected roads, fortified spot, allocated away from hustle and bustle and is sheltered.When compared to schools in cities, suburbs, and rural areas, schools in towns had a higher rate of theft and In comparison to schools in cities, suburbs, and rural areas, more city-based schools (40%) reported vandalism.

It is preferable to send your child to a kindergarten or a middle school that is located near your home as the kids studying in school belong to the age group below 14. Accordingly, those belonging to these age groups require parental guidance and love the most. Also security-wise, it is more convenient for children to attend a school near their home as you can rush at the earliest in case a dire situation arises. A school that is located at a good site, in addition to providing a harmonious and serene environ for academic pursuance, also offers better physical protection to its students. It decreases the possibility of a direct attack by shooters and intrusion of a suspicious individual inside school premise because of its overt position. 

Read |  How does a school affect the future of a child?

As a parent, you might inevitably find all the aforementioned directions to be inadequate if not fruitless. But something is better than nothing; in this case, simple actions are better than none. Though they may not amount to what you desire, they do serve your purpose to a certain extent.  

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• Knowledge Base

The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay | Steps & Examples

An academic essay is a focused piece of writing that develops an idea or argument using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

There are many types of essays you might write as a student. The content and length of an essay depends on your level, subject of study, and course requirements. However, most essays at university level are argumentative — they aim to persuade the reader of a particular position or perspective on a topic.

The essay writing process consists of three main stages:

• Preparation: Decide on your topic, do your research, and create an essay outline.
• Writing : Set out your argument in the introduction, develop it with evidence in the main body, and wrap it up with a conclusion.
• Revision:  Check your essay on the content, organization, grammar, spelling, and formatting of your essay.

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Table of contents

Essay writing process, preparation for writing an essay, writing the introduction, writing the main body, writing the conclusion, essay checklist, lecture slides, frequently asked questions about writing an essay.

The writing process of preparation, writing, and revisions applies to every essay or paper, but the time and effort spent on each stage depends on the type of essay .

For example, if you’ve been assigned a five-paragraph expository essay for a high school class, you’ll probably spend the most time on the writing stage; for a college-level argumentative essay , on the other hand, you’ll need to spend more time researching your topic and developing an original argument before you start writing.

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Before you start writing, you should make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to say and how you’re going to say it. There are a few key steps you can follow to make sure you’re prepared:

• Understand your assignment: What is the goal of this essay? What is the length and deadline of the assignment? Is there anything you need to clarify with your teacher or professor?
• Define a topic: If you’re allowed to choose your own topic , try to pick something that you already know a bit about and that will hold your interest.
• Do your research: Read  primary and secondary sources and take notes to help you work out your position and angle on the topic. You’ll use these as evidence for your points.
• Come up with a thesis:  The thesis is the central point or argument that you want to make. A clear thesis is essential for a focused essay—you should keep referring back to it as you write.
• Create an outline: Map out the rough structure of your essay in an outline . This makes it easier to start writing and keeps you on track as you go.

Once you’ve got a clear idea of what you want to discuss, in what order, and what evidence you’ll use, you’re ready to start writing.

The introduction sets the tone for your essay. It should grab the reader’s interest and inform them of what to expect. The introduction generally comprises 10–20% of the text.

1. Hook your reader

The first sentence of the introduction should pique your reader’s interest and curiosity. This sentence is sometimes called the hook. It might be an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement emphasizing the relevance of the topic.

Let’s say we’re writing an essay about the development of Braille (the raised-dot reading and writing system used by visually impaired people). Our hook can make a strong statement about the topic:

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

2. Provide background on your topic

Next, it’s important to give context that will help your reader understand your argument. This might involve providing background information, giving an overview of important academic work or debates on the topic, and explaining difficult terms. Don’t provide too much detail in the introduction—you can elaborate in the body of your essay.

3. Present the thesis statement

Next, you should formulate your thesis statement— the central argument you’re going to make. The thesis statement provides focus and signals your position on the topic. It is usually one or two sentences long. The thesis statement for our essay on Braille could look like this:

As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness.

4. Map the structure

In longer essays, you can end the introduction by briefly describing what will be covered in each part of the essay. This guides the reader through your structure and gives a preview of how your argument will develop.

The invention of Braille marked a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by blind and visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

Write your essay introduction

The body of your essay is where you make arguments supporting your thesis, provide evidence, and develop your ideas. Its purpose is to present, interpret, and analyze the information and sources you have gathered to support your argument.

Length of the body text

The length of the body depends on the type of essay. On average, the body comprises 60–80% of your essay. For a high school essay, this could be just three paragraphs, but for a graduate school essay of 6,000 words, the body could take up 8–10 pages.

Paragraph structure

To give your essay a clear structure , it is important to organize it into paragraphs . Each paragraph should be centered around one main point or idea.

That idea is introduced in a  topic sentence . The topic sentence should generally lead on from the previous paragraph and introduce the point to be made in this paragraph. Transition words can be used to create clear connections between sentences.

After the topic sentence, present evidence such as data, examples, or quotes from relevant sources. Be sure to interpret and explain the evidence, and show how it helps develop your overall argument.

Lack of access to reading and writing put blind people at a serious disadvantage in nineteenth-century society. Text was one of the primary methods through which people engaged with culture, communicated with others, and accessed information; without a well-developed reading system that did not rely on sight, blind people were excluded from social participation (Weygand, 2009). While disabled people in general suffered from discrimination, blindness was widely viewed as the worst disability, and it was commonly believed that blind people were incapable of pursuing a profession or improving themselves through culture (Weygand, 2009). This demonstrates the importance of reading and writing to social status at the time: without access to text, it was considered impossible to fully participate in society. Blind people were excluded from the sighted world, but also entirely dependent on sighted people for information and education.

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The conclusion is the final paragraph of an essay. It should generally take up no more than 10–15% of the text . A strong essay conclusion :

• Returns to your thesis
• Ties together your main points
• Shows why your argument matters

A great conclusion should finish with a memorable or impactful sentence that leaves the reader with a strong final impression.

What not to include in a conclusion

To make your essay’s conclusion as strong as possible, there are a few things you should avoid. The most common mistakes are:

• Including new arguments or evidence
• Undermining your arguments (e.g. “This is just one approach of many”)
• Using concluding phrases like “To sum up…” or “In conclusion…”

Braille paved the way for dramatic cultural changes in the way blind people were treated and the opportunities available to them. Louis Braille’s innovation was to reimagine existing reading systems from a blind perspective, and the success of this invention required sighted teachers to adapt to their students’ reality instead of the other way around. In this sense, Braille helped drive broader social changes in the status of blindness. New accessibility tools provide practical advantages to those who need them, but they can also change the perspectives and attitudes of those who do not.

Write your essay conclusion

Checklist: Essay

My essay follows the requirements of the assignment (topic and length ).

My introduction sparks the reader’s interest and provides any necessary background information on the topic.

My introduction contains a thesis statement that states the focus and position of the essay.

I use paragraphs to structure the essay.

I use topic sentences to introduce each paragraph.

Each paragraph has a single focus and a clear connection to the thesis statement.

I make clear transitions between paragraphs and ideas.

My conclusion doesn’t just repeat my points, but draws connections between arguments.

I don’t introduce new arguments or evidence in the conclusion.

I have given an in-text citation for every quote or piece of information I got from another source.

I have included a reference page at the end of my essay, listing full details of all my sources.

My citations and references are correctly formatted according to the required citation style .

My essay has an interesting and informative title.

I have followed all formatting guidelines (e.g. font, page numbers, line spacing).

Your essay meets all the most important requirements. Our editors can give it a final check to help you submit with confidence.

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An essay is a focused piece of writing that explains, argues, describes, or narrates.

In high school, you may have to write many different types of essays to develop your writing skills.

Academic essays at college level are usually argumentative : you develop a clear thesis about your topic and make a case for your position using evidence, analysis and interpretation.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

• An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
• Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
• A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main point of a paragraph . Everything else in the paragraph should relate to the topic sentence.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

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15-year-old found with bb gun at an orlando high school friday.

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A teenager is being charged with violating a city ordinance after bringing an unloaded BB gun to an Orlando school on Friday.

Orlando Police Department said that a social media post about a student with a gun at Jones High School led school resource officers to a 15-year-old who had brought an unloaded BB gun to the school. The BB gun did not have any markings to distinguish it from a real firearm.

He was charged with a city ordinance violation for carrying a simulated firearm.

OPD said that there was no threat associated with the student's social media post, but his actions caused "unnecessary fear among his peers, their parents and teachers."

In a statement posted on social media, the Orlando Police Department said, "In light of the recent school shooting in Georgia, the Orlando Police Department would like to express its unwavering commitment to vigilance in our schools and to stop any individuals who could be considered a danger to public safety."

'We were all shaken': Kids dropped off by bus at wrong stop amid issues with division's new app

A Winnipeg mother said glitches with a new app rolled out by Pembina Trails School Division to assist with communicating students' bus information left her five and seven-year-old sons stranded on their street alone.

Helena Nicholson said she first noticed issues with the My Ride K-12 app as she prepared to send her kids back to school.

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She previously registered for school year bus transportation for her sons and indicated they required pick up in the morning from Epiphany Children's Centre, drop off at École St. Avila, and transportation back to the daycare after school.

Nicholson noticed her kids' daycare was not listed in the app as their intended drop-off or pick-up location, but their home was. As a result, she spent the last week of their summer vacation trying to contact the school to sort out the problem.

"We got confirmation, both verbally and in emails, that that's not a problem, the app was incorrect, to disregard the app, and that they were going to be dropped off and picked up at the daycare. That was obviously not the case," Nicholson told CTV News Winnipeg in an interview.

On Wednesday, the first day of school, Nicholson put her kids on the bus at the daycare, confirming with the driver that they would get back on the same bus in the afternoon and be dropped off again at Epiphany.

Instead, Nicholson said the kids were dropped off on their street, with no one home to meet them.

"Turned out, they were told to go on a bus that was the incorrect bus, and then the bus driver, somewhat forcibly, told them to get off the bus at the stop that they were on her list to get off at," she said.

"They're five and seven. They're not allowed to be left unattended. How does that affect me and them? There's so many things that go through your mind. Mostly, at my point right now, it's just anger."

One of Nicholson's neighbours, who was there to pick up her own children, ended up taking Nicholson's sons home. She called Nicholson to let her know what had happened.

"I don't understand why this isn't something that they have dealt with and figured out in May or June of last year so that these things aren't happening," Nicholson said.

"Something needs to change with the way that they are handling our kids."

Bus arrived at daycare without children onboard: executive director

Caroline Driedger, executive director of King's Park Child Care, said the bus they were expecting pulled up to their stop without children on board. The driver told waiting staff the kids were on a different bus, and were to be dropped off at their homes.

The daycare immediately reached out to the Pembina Trails School Division's transportation department and parents to make sure they were picked up and with an adult.

Even though kids were dropped off somewhere else, they were quickly accounted for, she said.

"It could have gone many ways, where children were left at bus stops without any adults, without anyone picking them up. It could have led to a little more of a serious incident."

Driedger said she has since contacted the schools and went over which children were supposed to be on which bus.

Despite the first day issues, she believes they have now been ironed out.

"I'm actually confident today we'll be just fine."

Deepa Raghavan, executive director of Epiphany Children's Centre, was expecting 10 children to be dropped off at the daycare after school.

However, only one child arrived, with the whereabouts of the other students unknown.

She later found out most were dropped off at their home address, instead of at the daycare, with no guardian there to grab them.

She said two kids refused to get off the bus and were dropped off at the daycare more than hour later.

"It was horrifying. We were all shaken. Until 4:45 p.m., we were confident the children were on the bus and it's just taking time being the first day. The panic started as of 4:45 p.m., especially when the dispatch had no clue where they were."

On Thursday, Raghavan said she plans on texting families in the future to let them know the drop-off happened smoothly.

'We take this situation very seriously'

The Pembina Trails School Division amended their statement Thursday afternoon, however, no one was available for an interview.

The statement, from Shelley Amos, Superintendent/CEO, said the division acknowledges “that students were dropped off at the wrong location under unacceptable circumstances,” calling the incident “extremely serious”.

They confirmed that eight children were mistakenly dropped off at home instead of daycare and that the division staff immediately contacted families, and daycare staff.

”We are grateful that all the children were safe, and we are deeply sorry this happened. We sincerely apologize and are committed to preventing such incidents in the future.” the statement said in part, “A review of the incident is already underway, including a thorough evaluation of our communication practices. We acknowledge the need for improvement and are dedicated to providing accurate and timely information.”

The division acknowledged the new software and My Ride app that was acquired resulted in some “unforeseen challenges” that have caused “uncertainty and late information” to some families.

New app meant to bring 'added efficiency and user capabilities'

In a statement, the school division said it first acquired the new software to assist its transportation department with "the complex challenges of routing and the importance of clear communication with families."

However, the division said the implementation of the new software resulted in some unforeseen challenges, which created complications in communicating bus routes and schedules to all families in the timely fashion it anticipated.

The division said the issue affected about 10 per cent of eligible ridership.

"Our transportation department continues to dedicate their time and resources to provide accurate information to families. We have attempted to reach all affected families using multiple modes of communication," Amos said in a news release.

Tyler Technologies, the company behind the My Ride K-12 app, said in an email it has not been contacted by the school division for assistance on the issue.

A spokesperson notes the app only provides information the division inputs into the software.

"The division has configured the My Ride K-12 app to show only planned pick-up and drop-off schedules. The app is not intended to assist drivers with actually driving the route," the spokesperson said.

"The driver may drop off at an unplanned stop if they are unaware of a schedule change or if they have outdated information."

They also note it is up to each district or division to determine how they want to communicate a schedule or route change.

- With files from CTV's Michelle Gerwing

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177 College Essay Examples for 11 Schools + Expert Analysis

College Admissions , College Essays

The personal statement might just be the hardest part of your college application. Mostly this is because it has the least guidance and is the most open-ended. One way to understand what colleges are looking for when they ask you to write an essay is to check out the essays of students who already got in—college essays that actually worked. After all, they must be among the most successful of this weird literary genre.

In this article, I'll go through general guidelines for what makes great college essays great. I've also compiled an enormous list of 100+ actual sample college essays from 11 different schools. Finally, I'll break down two of these published college essay examples and explain why and how they work. With links to 177 full essays and essay excerpts , this article is a great resource for learning how to craft your own personal college admissions essay!

What Excellent College Essays Have in Common

Even though in many ways these sample college essays are very different from one other, they do share some traits you should try to emulate as you write your own essay.

Visible Signs of Planning

Building out from a narrow, concrete focus. You'll see a similar structure in many of the essays. The author starts with a very detailed story of an event or description of a person or place. After this sense-heavy imagery, the essay expands out to make a broader point about the author, and connects this very memorable experience to the author's present situation, state of mind, newfound understanding, or maturity level.

Knowing how to tell a story. Some of the experiences in these essays are one-of-a-kind. But most deal with the stuff of everyday life. What sets them apart is the way the author approaches the topic: analyzing it for drama and humor, for its moving qualities, for what it says about the author's world, and for how it connects to the author's emotional life.

Stellar Execution

A killer first sentence. You've heard it before, and you'll hear it again: you have to suck the reader in, and the best place to do that is the first sentence. Great first sentences are punchy. They are like cliffhangers, setting up an exciting scene or an unusual situation with an unclear conclusion, in order to make the reader want to know more. Don't take my word for it—check out these 22 first sentences from Stanford applicants and tell me you don't want to read the rest of those essays to find out what happens!

A lively, individual voice. Writing is for readers. In this case, your reader is an admissions officer who has read thousands of essays before yours and will read thousands after. Your goal? Don't bore your reader. Use interesting descriptions, stay away from clichés, include your own offbeat observations—anything that makes this essay sounds like you and not like anyone else.

Technical correctness. No spelling mistakes, no grammar weirdness, no syntax issues, no punctuation snafus—each of these sample college essays has been formatted and proofread perfectly. If this kind of exactness is not your strong suit, you're in luck! All colleges advise applicants to have their essays looked over several times by parents, teachers, mentors, and anyone else who can spot a comma splice. Your essay must be your own work, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with getting help polishing it.

And if you need more guidance, connect with PrepScholar's expert admissions consultants . These expert writers know exactly what college admissions committees look for in an admissions essay and chan help you craft an essay that boosts your chances of getting into your dream school.

Check out PrepScholar's Essay Editing and Coaching progra m for more details!

Links to Full College Essay Examples

Some colleges publish a selection of their favorite accepted college essays that worked, and I've put together a selection of over 100 of these.

Common App Essay Samples

Please note that some of these college essay examples may be responding to prompts that are no longer in use. The current Common App prompts are as follows:

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. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? 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. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of 177 college essay examples responding to current and past Common App essay prompts. 

Connecticut college.

• 12 Common Application essays from the classes of 2022-2025

Hamilton College

• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2026
• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2022
• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2018
• 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2012
• 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2007

Johns Hopkins

These essays are answers to past prompts from either the Common Application or the Coalition Application (which Johns Hopkins used to accept).

• 1 Common Application or Coalition Application essay from the class of 2026
• 6 Common Application or Coalition Application essays from the class of 2025
• 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2024
• 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2023
• 7 Common Application of Universal Application essays from the class of 2022
• 5 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2021
• 7 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2020

Essay Examples Published by Other Websites

• 2 Common Application essays ( 1st essay , 2nd essay ) from applicants admitted to Columbia

Other Sample College Essays

Here is a collection of essays that are college-specific.

Babson College

• 4 essays (and 1 video response) on "Why Babson" from the class of 2020

Emory University

• 5 essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) from the class of 2020 along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on why the essays were exceptional
• 5 more recent essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on what made these essays stand out

University of Georgia

• 1 “strong essay” sample from 2019
• 1 “strong essay” sample from 2018
• 10 Harvard essays from 2023
• 10 Harvard essays from 2022
• 10 Harvard essays from 2021
• 10 Harvard essays from 2020
• 10 Harvard essays from 2019
• 10 Harvard essays from 2018
• 6 essays from admitted MIT students

Smith College

• 6 "best gift" essays from the class of 2018

Books of College Essays

If you're looking for even more sample college essays, consider purchasing a college essay book. The best of these include dozens of essays that worked and feedback from real admissions officers.

College Essays That Made a Difference —This detailed guide from Princeton Review includes not only successful essays, but also interviews with admissions officers and full student profiles.

50 Successful Harvard Application Essays by the Staff of the Harvard Crimson—A must for anyone aspiring to Harvard .

50 Successful Ivy League Application Essays and 50 Successful Stanford Application Essays by Gen and Kelly Tanabe—For essays from other top schools, check out this venerated series, which is regularly updated with new essays.

Heavenly Essays by Janine W. Robinson—This collection from the popular blogger behind Essay Hell includes a wider range of schools, as well as helpful tips on honing your own essay.

Analyzing Great Common App Essays That Worked

I've picked two essays from the examples collected above to examine in more depth so that you can see exactly what makes a successful college essay work. Full credit for these essays goes to the original authors and the schools that published them.

Example 1: "Breaking Into Cars," by Stephen, Johns Hopkins Class of '19 (Common App Essay, 636 words long)

I had never broken into a car before.

We were in Laredo, having just finished our first day at a Habitat for Humanity work site. The Hotchkiss volunteers had already left, off to enjoy some Texas BBQ, leaving me behind with the college kids to clean up. Not until we were stranded did we realize we were locked out of the van.

Someone picked a coat hanger out of the dumpster, handed it to me, and took a few steps back.

"Can you do that thing with a coat hanger to unlock it?"

"Why me?" I thought.

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame. Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally. My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed. "The water's on fire! Clear a hole!" he shouted, tossing me in the lake without warning. While I'm still unconvinced about that particular lesson's practicality, my Dad's overarching message is unequivocally true: much of life is unexpected, and you have to deal with the twists and turns.

Living in my family, days rarely unfolded as planned. A bit overlooked, a little pushed around, I learned to roll with reality, negotiate a quick deal, and give the improbable a try. I don't sweat the small stuff, and I definitely don't expect perfect fairness. So what if our dining room table only has six chairs for seven people? Someone learns the importance of punctuality every night.

But more than punctuality and a special affinity for musical chairs, my family life has taught me to thrive in situations over which I have no power. Growing up, I never controlled my older siblings, but I learned how to thwart their attempts to control me. I forged alliances, and realigned them as necessary. Sometimes, I was the poor, defenseless little brother; sometimes I was the omniscient elder. Different things to different people, as the situation demanded. I learned to adapt.

Back then, these techniques were merely reactions undertaken to ensure my survival. But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The question caught me off guard, much like the question posed to me in Laredo. Then, I realized I knew the answer. I knew why the coat hanger had been handed to me.

Growing up as the middle child in my family, I was a vital participant in a thing I did not govern, in the company of people I did not choose. It's family. It's society. And often, it's chaos. You participate by letting go of the small stuff, not expecting order and perfection, and facing the unexpected with confidence, optimism, and preparedness. My family experience taught me to face a serendipitous world with confidence.

What Makes This Essay Tick?

It's very helpful to take writing apart in order to see just how it accomplishes its objectives. Stephen's essay is very effective. Let's find out why!

An Opening Line That Draws You In

In just eight words, we get: scene-setting (he is standing next to a car about to break in), the idea of crossing a boundary (he is maybe about to do an illegal thing for the first time), and a cliffhanger (we are thinking: is he going to get caught? Is he headed for a life of crime? Is he about to be scared straight?).

Great, Detailed Opening Story

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame.

It's the details that really make this small experience come alive. Notice how whenever he can, Stephen uses a more specific, descriptive word in place of a more generic one. The volunteers aren't going to get food or dinner; they're going for "Texas BBQ." The coat hanger comes from "a dumpster." Stephen doesn't just move the coat hanger—he "jiggles" it.

Details also help us visualize the emotions of the people in the scene. The person who hands Stephen the coat hanger isn't just uncomfortable or nervous; he "takes a few steps back"—a description of movement that conveys feelings. Finally, the detail of actual speech makes the scene pop. Instead of writing that the other guy asked him to unlock the van, Stephen has the guy actually say his own words in a way that sounds like a teenager talking.

Turning a Specific Incident Into a Deeper Insight

Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

Stephen makes the locked car experience a meaningful illustration of how he has learned to be resourceful and ready for anything, and he also makes this turn from the specific to the broad through an elegant play on the two meanings of the word "click."

Using Concrete Examples When Making Abstract Claims

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally.

"Unpredictability and chaos" are very abstract, not easily visualized concepts. They could also mean any number of things—violence, abandonment, poverty, mental instability. By instantly following up with highly finite and unambiguous illustrations like "family of seven" and "siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing," Stephen grounds the abstraction in something that is easy to picture: a large, noisy family.

Using Small Bits of Humor and Casual Word Choice

My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed.

Obviously, knowing how to clean burning oil is not high on the list of things every 9-year-old needs to know. To emphasize this, Stephen uses sarcasm by bringing up a situation that is clearly over-the-top: "in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed."

The humor also feels relaxed. Part of this is because he introduces it with the colloquial phrase "you know," so it sounds like he is talking to us in person. This approach also diffuses the potential discomfort of the reader with his father's strictness—since he is making jokes about it, clearly he is OK. Notice, though, that this doesn't occur very much in the essay. This helps keep the tone meaningful and serious rather than flippant.

An Ending That Stretches the Insight Into the Future

But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The ending of the essay reveals that Stephen's life has been one long preparation for the future. He has emerged from chaos and his dad's approach to parenting as a person who can thrive in a world that he can't control.

This connection of past experience to current maturity and self-knowledge is a key element in all successful personal essays. Colleges are very much looking for mature, self-aware applicants. These are the qualities of successful college students, who will be able to navigate the independence college classes require and the responsibility and quasi-adulthood of college life.

What Could This Essay Do Even Better?

Even the best essays aren't perfect, and even the world's greatest writers will tell you that writing is never "finished"—just "due." So what would we tweak in this essay if we could?

Replace some of the clichéd language. Stephen uses handy phrases like "twists and turns" and "don't sweat the small stuff" as a kind of shorthand for explaining his relationship to chaos and unpredictability. But using too many of these ready-made expressions runs the risk of clouding out your own voice and replacing it with something expected and boring.

Use another example from recent life. Stephen's first example (breaking into the van in Laredo) is a great illustration of being resourceful in an unexpected situation. But his essay also emphasizes that he "learned to adapt" by being "different things to different people." It would be great to see how this plays out outside his family, either in the situation in Laredo or another context.

Example 2: By Renner Kwittken, Tufts Class of '23 (Common App Essay, 645 words long)

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver. I saw it in my favorite book, Richard Scarry's "Cars and Trucks and Things That Go," and for some reason, I was absolutely obsessed with the idea of driving a giant pickle. Much to the discontent of my younger sister, I insisted that my parents read us that book as many nights as possible so we could find goldbug, a small little golden bug, on every page. I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Then I discovered a real goldbug: gold nanoparticles that can reprogram macrophages to assist in killing tumors, produce clear images of them without sacrificing the subject, and heat them to obliteration.

Suddenly the destination of my pickle was clear.

I quickly became enveloped by the world of nanomedicine; I scoured articles about liposomes, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, targeting ligands, and self-assembling nanoparticles, all conquering cancer in some exotic way. Completely absorbed, I set out to find a mentor to dive even deeper into these topics. After several rejections, I was immensely grateful to receive an invitation to work alongside Dr. Sangeeta Ray at Johns Hopkins.

In the lab, Dr. Ray encouraged a great amount of autonomy to design and implement my own procedures. I chose to attack a problem that affects the entire field of nanomedicine: nanoparticles consistently fail to translate from animal studies into clinical trials. Jumping off recent literature, I set out to see if a pre-dose of a common chemotherapeutic could enhance nanoparticle delivery in aggressive prostate cancer, creating three novel constructs based on three different linear polymers, each using fluorescent dye (although no gold, sorry goldbug!). Though using radioactive isotopes like Gallium and Yttrium would have been incredible, as a 17-year-old, I unfortunately wasn't allowed in the same room as these radioactive materials (even though I took a Geiger counter to a pair of shoes and found them to be slightly dangerous).

I hadn't expected my hypothesis to work, as the research project would have ideally been led across two full years. Yet while there are still many optimizations and revisions to be done, I was thrilled to find -- with completely new nanoparticles that may one day mean future trials will use particles with the initials "RK-1" -- thatcyclophosphamide did indeed increase nanoparticle delivery to the tumor in a statistically significant way.

A secondary, unexpected research project was living alone in Baltimore, a new city to me, surrounded by people much older than I. Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research. Whether in a presentation or in a casual conversation, making others interested in science is perhaps more exciting to me than the research itself. This solidified a new pursuit to angle my love for writing towards illuminating science in ways people can understand, adding value to a society that can certainly benefit from more scientific literacy.

It seems fitting that my goals are still transforming: in Scarry's book, there is not just one goldbug, there is one on every page. With each new experience, I'm learning that it isn't the goldbug itself, but rather the act of searching for the goldbugs that will encourage, shape, and refine my ever-evolving passions. Regardless of the goldbug I seek -- I know my pickle truck has just begun its journey.

Renner takes a somewhat different approach than Stephen, but their essay is just as detailed and engaging. Let's go through some of the strengths of this essay.

One Clear Governing Metaphor

This essay is ultimately about two things: Renner’s dreams and future career goals, and Renner’s philosophy on goal-setting and achieving one’s dreams.

But instead of listing off all the amazing things they’ve done to pursue their dream of working in nanomedicine, Renner tells a powerful, unique story instead. To set up the narrative, Renner opens the essay by connecting their experiences with goal-setting and dream-chasing all the way back to a memorable childhood experience:

This lighthearted–but relevant!--story about the moment when Renner first developed a passion for a specific career (“finding the goldbug”) provides an anchor point for the rest of the essay. As Renner pivots to describing their current dreams and goals–working in nanomedicine–the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” is reflected in Renner’s experiments, rejections, and new discoveries.

Though Renner tells multiple stories about their quest to “find the goldbug,” or, in other words, pursue their passion, each story is connected by a unifying theme; namely, that as we search and grow over time, our goals will transform…and that’s okay! By the end of the essay, Renner uses the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” to reiterate the relevance of the opening story:

While the earlier parts of the essay convey Renner’s core message by showing, the final, concluding paragraph sums up Renner’s insights by telling. By briefly and clearly stating the relevance of the goldbug metaphor to their own philosophy on goals and dreams, Renner demonstrates their creativity, insight, and eagerness to grow and evolve as the journey continues into college.

An Engaging, Individual Voice

This essay uses many techniques that make Renner sound genuine and make the reader feel like we already know them.

Technique #1: humor. Notice Renner's gentle and relaxed humor that lightly mocks their younger self's grand ambitions (this is different from the more sarcastic kind of humor used by Stephen in the first essay—you could never mistake one writer for the other).

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver.

I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Renner gives a great example of how to use humor to your advantage in college essays. You don’t want to come off as too self-deprecating or sarcastic, but telling a lightheartedly humorous story about your younger self that also showcases how you’ve grown and changed over time can set the right tone for your entire essay.

Technique #2: intentional, eye-catching structure. The second technique is the way Renner uses a unique structure to bolster the tone and themes of their essay . The structure of your essay can have a major impact on how your ideas come across…so it’s important to give it just as much thought as the content of your essay!

For instance, Renner does a great job of using one-line paragraphs to create dramatic emphasis and to make clear transitions from one phase of the story to the next:

Suddenly the destination of my pickle car was clear.

Not only does the one-liner above signal that Renner is moving into a new phase of the narrative (their nanoparticle research experiences), it also tells the reader that this is a big moment in Renner’s story. It’s clear that Renner made a major discovery that changed the course of their goal pursuit and dream-chasing. Through structure, Renner conveys excitement and entices the reader to keep pushing forward to the next part of the story.

Technique #3: playing with syntax. The third technique is to use sentences of varying length, syntax, and structure. Most of the essay's written in standard English and uses grammatically correct sentences. However, at key moments, Renner emphasizes that the reader needs to sit up and pay attention by switching to short, colloquial, differently punctuated, and sometimes fragmented sentences.

Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research.

In the examples above, Renner switches adeptly between long, flowing sentences and quippy, telegraphic ones. At the same time, Renner uses these different sentence lengths intentionally. As they describe their experiences in new places, they use longer sentences to immerse the reader in the sights, smells, and sounds of those experiences. And when it’s time to get a big, key idea across, Renner switches to a short, punchy sentence to stop the reader in their tracks.

The varying syntax and sentence lengths pull the reader into the narrative and set up crucial “aha” moments when it’s most important…which is a surefire way to make any college essay stand out.

Renner's essay is very strong, but there are still a few little things that could be improved.

Connecting the research experiences to the theme of “finding the goldbug.”  The essay begins and ends with Renner’s connection to the idea of “finding the goldbug.” And while this metaphor is deftly tied into the essay’s intro and conclusion, it isn’t entirely clear what Renner’s big findings were during the research experiences that are described in the middle of the essay. It would be great to add a sentence or two stating what Renner’s big takeaways (or “goldbugs”) were from these experiences, which add more cohesion to the essay as a whole.

Give more details about discovering the world of nanomedicine. It makes sense that Renner wants to get into the details of their big research experiences as quickly as possible. After all, these are the details that show Renner’s dedication to nanomedicine! But a smoother transition from the opening pickle car/goldbug story to Renner’s “real goldbug” of nanoparticles would help the reader understand why nanoparticles became Renner’s goldbug. Finding out why Renner is so motivated to study nanomedicine–and perhaps what put them on to this field of study–would help readers fully understand why Renner chose this path in the first place.

4 Essential Tips for Writing Your Own Essay

How can you use this discussion to better your own college essay? Here are some suggestions for ways to use this resource effectively.

#1: Get Help From the Experts

Getting your college applications together takes a lot of work and can be pretty intimidatin g. Essays are even more important than ever now that admissions processes are changing and schools are going test-optional and removing diversity standards thanks to new Supreme Court rulings .  If you want certified expert help that really makes a difference, get started with  PrepScholar’s Essay Editing and Coaching program. Our program can help you put together an incredible essay from idea to completion so that your application stands out from the crowd. We've helped students get into the best colleges in the United States, including Harvard, Stanford, and Yale.  If you're ready to take the next step and boost your odds of getting into your dream school, connect with our experts today .

#2: Read Other Essays to Get Ideas for Your Own

As you go through the essays we've compiled for you above, ask yourself the following questions:

• Can you explain to yourself (or someone else!) why the opening sentence works well?
• Look for the essay's detailed personal anecdote. What senses is the author describing? Can you easily picture the scene in your mind's eye?
• Find the place where this anecdote bridges into a larger insight about the author. How does the essay connect the two? How does the anecdote work as an example of the author's characteristic, trait, or skill?
• Check out the essay's tone. If it's funny, can you find the places where the humor comes from? If it's sad and moving, can you find the imagery and description of feelings that make you moved? If it's serious, can you see how word choice adds to this tone?

Make a note whenever you find an essay or part of an essay that you think was particularly well-written, and think about what you like about it . Is it funny? Does it help you really get to know the writer? Does it show what makes the writer unique? Once you have your list, keep it next to you while writing your essay to remind yourself to try and use those same techniques in your own essay.

#3: Find Your "A-Ha!" Moment

All of these essays rely on connecting with the reader through a heartfelt, highly descriptive scene from the author's life. It can either be very dramatic (did you survive a plane crash?) or it can be completely mundane (did you finally beat your dad at Scrabble?). Either way, it should be personal and revealing about you, your personality, and the way you are now that you are entering the adult world.

Check out essays by authors like John Jeremiah Sullivan , Leslie Jamison , Hanif Abdurraqib , and Esmé Weijun Wang to get more examples of how to craft a compelling personal narrative.

#4: Start Early, Revise Often

Let me level with you: the best writing isn't writing at all. It's rewriting. And in order to have time to rewrite, you have to start way before the application deadline. My advice is to write your first draft at least two months before your applications are due.

Let it sit for a few days untouched. Then come back to it with fresh eyes and think critically about what you've written. What's extra? What's missing? What is in the wrong place? What doesn't make sense? Don't be afraid to take it apart and rearrange sections. Do this several times over, and your essay will be much better for it!

For more editing tips, check out a style guide like Dreyer's English or Eats, Shoots & Leaves .

What's Next?

Still not sure which colleges you want to apply to? Our experts will show you how to make a college list that will help you choose a college that's right for you.

Interested in learning more about college essays? Check out our detailed breakdown of exactly how personal statements work in an application , some suggestions on what to avoid when writing your essay , and our guide to writing about your extracurricular activities .

Working on the rest of your application? Read what admissions officers wish applicants knew before applying .

The recommendations in this post are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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Six teenagers have been arrested in connection to a series of threats made toward schools in the Cincinnati area this week.

The threats were made online Wednesday and Thursday, after a shooting at a high school in Georgia , where four people died and at least nine others were hospitalized.

On Friday, Cincinnati police said six people were arrested for their alleged involvement in the threats toward Oyler School, DePaul Cristo Rey High School, Taft Information Technology High School and Roberts Academy.

All of the teenagers were charged with inducing panic and making false alarms.

A 16-year-old boy was charged for the threat against Oyler School, a 15-year-old boy was charged for the DePaul Cristo Rey threats and a 14-year-old girl was charged for the threat against Taft.

Three 13-year-old boys were charged in the threat against Roberts Academy.

Numerous districts around Greater Cincinnati received threats against their schools , including Cincinnati Public Schools, Princeton City Schools, Northwest Local Schools and Winton Woods City Schools.

"With the 2024-2025 school year just beginning, this is an opportunity for our community to have meaningful conversations about the weight of words online. The things we say to each other on Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Discord, and more have real-world consequences, so let's treat each other with respect and courtesy," a spokesperson with CPD said Friday.

Essay Papers Writing Online

Step-by-step guide on writing a captivating descriptive essay about a place.

When it comes to descriptive writing, there is an ocean of possibilities that lies before us like an uncharted territory waiting to be discovered. One such avenue that beckons us to embark on a literary journey is the realm of describing a place. In this captivating genre, we have the opportunity to transport our readers to a specific location, immerse them in its sights, sounds, and sensations, and create an experience that will linger in their minds long after they put down our words.

Perhaps you have stumbled upon a tucked-away village nestled amidst rolling hills, or chanced upon a bustling metropolis pulsating with energy. Maybe it is a secluded beach, where the soft sand caresses your feet and the salty breeze carries the whispers of the waves. Regardless of the place, to paint a vivid picture with words, we must utilize our skills to evoke the atmosphere, bring out the essence, and capture the essence of the locale.

Throughout this step-by-step guide, we will delve into the art of writing a descriptive essay about a place. We will uncover the secrets of choosing the ideal location, gathering sensory details, and employing vivid language that will transport our readers and ignite their imaginations. So, let us begin this adventure and uncover the hidden treasures that await us in the enchanting world of descriptive writing.

Choosing the Perfect Setting

One of the key factors in writing a descriptive essay is selecting the ideal setting to portray. The setting serves as the backdrop for the events and experiences that will be described in the essay. It plays a vital role in creating a vivid image in the reader’s mind and capturing their interest.

When choosing the perfect setting, it is essential to consider the specific details that will help bring the place to life. These details can include the location, time of day, weather, and the overall ambiance of the place. By carefully selecting these elements, the writer can create a sensory experience that allows the reader to feel as if they are truly present in the described location.

Choosing the perfect setting is a crucial step in writing a descriptive essay. It sets the stage, creates a visual image, and immerses the reader in the described location. By carefully considering the location, time of day, weather, and ambiance, the writer can craft a compelling and sensory experience for their audience.

Gathering Research and Inspiration

Exploring the essence of a specific location requires careful research and a keen eye for detail. Before you start writing a descriptive essay about a place, it is essential to gather relevant research and seek inspiration to create a vivid and engaging portrayal.

Start by delving into books, articles, and online resources that offer information about your chosen place. Look for historical facts, geographical details, and anecdotes that can add depth and context to your essay. Note down interesting tidbits and unique features that make the place stand out.

Additionally, immerse yourself in the experiences of others. Read travel blogs, watch documentaries or interviews, and browse through personal experiences shared by people who have visited or lived in the place you are describing. Pay attention to their descriptive language and how they capture the atmosphere and essence of the location.

While conducting your research, take the opportunity to gather visual inspiration as well. Look for photographs, paintings, or sketches that depict the place. Study the colors, textures, and overall composition, and think about how these visual elements can help you convey the atmosphere and mood in your writing.

Don’t limit yourself to online research alone – visit the place if possible or explore through virtual means such as online tours or interactive maps. Immerse yourself in the sounds, sights, and smells of the place, and pay attention to the small details that often go unnoticed.

By gathering research and seeking inspiration, you will have a solid foundation to create a descriptive essay that transports your readers to the place you are describing. It will allow you to paint a vivid picture with words and evoke a strong sense of familiarity and connection in your readers.

Describing the Senses: Sight, Sound, Smell, and More

When it comes to writing a descriptive essay about a place, it is important to engage the reader’s senses and create a vivid image in their mind. By skillfully incorporating descriptive language, you can effectively convey the sights, sounds, smells, and other details that make a place unique and memorable.

The sense of sight plays a crucial role in bringing a place to life on the page. Describe the vibrant colors that dominate the landscape, the architectural details that catch the eye, and the play of light and shadow that creates an atmosphere in the place. Paint a picture with words and immerse your reader in the visual experience of being there.

Sound is another sense that can transport your reader to the place you are describing. Capture the cacophony of a busy city street, the rhythmic crashing of waves on a beach, or the melodic chirping of birds in a tranquil forest. By using descriptive language to convey the soundscape of a place, you can make the reader feel like they are standing right there, immersed in the auditory environment.

In addition to sight and sound, smell is a powerful sense that can evoke strong emotions and memories. Describe the pungent aroma of exotic spices wafting through a bustling market, the earthy scent of freshly fallen rain in a forest, or the intoxicating fragrance of flowers in a lush garden. By bringing the sense of smell to the forefront of your description, you can transport your reader to a place in a way that is both visceral and emotionally resonant.

But the senses don’t stop there. Consider incorporating tactile sensations, such as the rough texture of weathered stone or the softness of a sandy beach. Taste can also play a role, as you describe the flavors of local cuisine or the tang of salt in the air near the ocean. By engaging multiple senses in your description, you create a more immersive and rich experience for your reader.

Describing the senses is a powerful tool in writing a descriptive essay about a place. By skillfully using language to convey the sights, sounds, smells, and other sensory details, you can transport your reader to the place you are describing and create a lasting impression.

Concluding with Impact: Emotions and Reflections

As we reach the end of our journey through the process of writing a descriptive essay about a place, it is important to consider the lasting impact that a well-crafted conclusion can have on the reader. The conclusion is the final opportunity to leave a lasting impression, and by evoking emotions and prompting reflection, we can ensure that our essay resonates with the reader long after they have finished reading.

One effective way to conclude with impact is to appeal to the reader’s emotions. By using descriptive language and vivid imagery, we can paint a final picture that elicits specific emotions in the reader. Whether it is a sense of awe and wonder, nostalgia and longing, or even fear and suspense, tapping into the reader’s emotions can create a powerful connection and leave a lasting impression.

In addition to evoking emotions, the conclusion should also provide an opportunity for reflection. By summarizing the main points and themes discussed throughout the essay, the reader is encouraged to take a step back and consider the broader implications of the place being described. This reflection can deepen the reader’s understanding and create a sense of resonance as they contemplate the significance of the place in their own lives.

Finally, it is important to remember that the conclusion should leave the reader with a sense of closure. This can be achieved by circling back to the introduction, perhaps referencing a key detail or anecdote mentioned at the beginning of the essay. By creating a sense of full circle, the reader is left with a satisfying conclusion and a lasting impression.

In conclusion, the final section of a descriptive essay about a place is a crucial opportunity to make an impact on the reader. By appealing to emotions, prompting reflection, and providing closure, we can ensure that our essay has a lasting effect and leaves the reader with a sense of connection and resonance.

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INFLUENCE OF SCHOOL LOCATION ON STUDENTS' ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN SOCIAL STUDIES IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

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THE EFFECTS OF SCHOOL LOCATION ON STUDENTS PERFORMANCE IN ESSAY WRITING IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KATSINA-ALA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENUE STATE

• Post author By Editorial Team
• Post date October 2, 2020

AUGUSTINE AYOM GWAZA Department of General Studies Education, College of Education, Katsina-Ala. E-mail: [email protected]

This study looks at the effects of school location on the academic performance of students in essay writing in senior secondary schools in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. One research question and hypothesis guided the study. The study adopted the Ex-post-facto research design. The population of the study consisted of 2000 senior secondary II students. A sample of 200 students was drawn from four sampled schools. Stratified random sampling was used to select two schools each from urban and rural areas while simple random sampling was used to select one contact class of SSII student to form participants in each of the four sampled schools. Data were collected using writing performance test. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer research question while t-test was used to test the hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that students in urban schools outperformed their counterparts in rural schools in writing (0.00<0.05). Based on the findings, it was recommended that experienced and qualified teachers should be posted to schools in rural areas to boost the teaching of writing skills. Students should be motivated towards effective writing by giving them regular assessmentpractice, marking and returning same to students with encouraging comments; government should provide social amenities in the rural areas to attract teachers posted to such areas as well asteaching/learning materials, to ease the teaching/learning of writing skills.

Keywords : School location, writing, performance.

BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

Introduction

Writing is a very essential activity that one cannot get away from because of its relevance. We must write letters, reports, speeches, memos and proposals. Students benefit most from writing, when it provides them with a sense of how what they write can be connected to the world outside the classroom. Students use writing maximally to learn, share ideas, opinions, doubts, disagreement, beliefs and feelings with others. (Muodumogu, 2010). According to Nordquist (2014), writing makes an exact man. It helps students to think critically and creatively, engage more deeply in their learning, transfer what they have learnt from course to course, from context to context. It is also argued that the skills of expressing ones thoughts, and communicating ideas and views to others is developed through writing (Pillai, 2014). This makes good writing skills important and critical to academic success. Since writing offers individuals a unique and formal way of expressing thoughts and communicating ideas and views to others, it has become an indispensable tool for academic success. Oyetunde and Muodumogu, (1999) posit that writing is a very essential part of the learning process, and by extension the most important way that educated learners communicate their ideas. This also explains why writing is said to be the visible indicator of an educated person worldwide.

Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC, 2007a) observes that students who cannot communicate effectively in writing, usually have their intellectual and social activities impaired. This calls for meaningful teaching of writing, since it is connected to intellectual growth and social operation of learners. Moreover, one of the objectives of teaching English Language at the junior secondary school level is to develop in students, the ability to express and communicate effectively in writing, as they would, or should, in speech (NERDC, 2007b). From the foregoing, it can be pointed out that students’ writing achievement is a key determinant of their success in academics and in life.

However, students’ performance in writing seems to be poor, as teachers, parents and the general public continue to complain about this issue. One may have relevant ideas but if not well written, the essence will be defeated. For example, grammatical mistakes, misspelt words, incorrect punctuation and poorly structured sentences can make the content confusing, if not utterly unreadable (Brookhart, 2007). In Nigeria, most students often score poorly in writing tasks, tests and examinations because they are unable to write critically. This may be due to school location which requires urgent attention as it is practically difficult, if not impossible, to succeed without writing skills.

Agada (2008) found out that school location has a significant effect on students achievement in reading comprehension and grammar. Owoeye (2011) states that students in urban location have a very great advantage in learning which apparently enriches their academic knowledge, despite the apparent disadvantage, as it were, of having to learn in large classes. The author states further that distribution of teachers in rural schools is not comparable with the urban schools. The population of teachers in rural schools is usually low because teachers do not readily accept postings to rural areas. Besides, rural communities are characterized by low population, monotonous and burdensome life. Most teachers prefer to stay in the schools in urban areas because of the benefits and comfort of the city, which include good roads, satisfactory means of communication, availability of books and teaching materials. Highly qualified teachers also prefer to stay in urban schools. The implication of this is that schools in rural areas will have few and inexperienced teachers which may negatively affect the academic performance of students in rural schools.

It is against this background that the researcher undertakes a study on the effects of school location on students’ performance in essay writing in secondary schools in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

Conceptual Clarification

Writing: Writing is a basic language skill that is not naturally acquired, but learned. It is learned because of its numerous benefits. It enhances how much students learn; and at work, it is a gateway for employment and promotion, especially in salaried positions (Graham, 2008). In fact, many scholars see writing as an indispensable tool for communicating ideas, thoughts, feelings and emotion (Aliyu, 2010, Muodumogu, 2010). The National Teachers’ Institute (2000) conceives writing as a way of presenting ideas in print. It further posits that if we have no ideas, we cannot write anything. Supporting this claim, Muodumogu& Yisa (2013) states that students who lack sufficient background on a topic do not have ability to relate on that topic and would find it difficult to write about it. This implies that teachers in rural and urban schools should be aware of the various ways of making learners to get the ideas to write about, since they are motivated to write, once they have ideas to write (NTI, 2000).

Writing is not just an orderly sequence of discrete activities but a process that is interconnected and interrelated. It involves observation, brainstorming or finding ideas, thinking about ways of organizing them, revising/editing and producing a final copy (Aliyu, 2010); Muodumogu, 2010). This suggests that writing does not happen at once. This implies that writing is fluid and recursive. This explains why Oyetunde (2014) reiterates that writing should be seen as a process and must be taught as such.

The writing process clarifies and presents the writer’s unique way of thinking. This helps bring into consciousness normal human thought processes (Bechani, 2014). In fact, writing starts with observation, it involves thinking, descriptive (using concrete details), explanation, inferences, synthesis, selection and focuses. NTI (2000) buttresses this in its definition of writing as thinking made visible. It is worthy of note here that everyone writes for a purpose. Olatoye (2010) states that the purpose of writing is to express, inform, persuade, deceive, entertain, inspire and condemn. This explains why writing appears in different forms: letters, personal notes, memoranda and a description, instruction, biography, meditation/prayer or personal profile (Aliyu, 2010). Aliyu states that writing compels the writer to reflect on the objective, think about the audience and the function, and determine the form which the writing may take so as to achieve his purpose. A careful look at the foregoing clearly reveals that writing requires planning or preparation.

Writing is a task that involves many processes. Trustee of Dartmouth College (2014) views writing as a three-step process: invention (prewriting) composition (writing) and revision. Bechani (2014) sees writing as a five-step or sub-skills process: drafting, editing, revising, organizing and re-writing. Although, there is disparity in the number of steps involved in writing, as postulated by the scholars, it is certain that every writer goes through different processes of acquiring ideas which are used in his writing. NTI (2000) states that the ideas are acquired from reading, practical experiences, excursions among others before such ideas are sorted out in a coherent manner for the writing exercise.

The implication of the foregoing is that writing is a series of steps to help one to put down ideas, impressions or statements or declarations concisely, meaningfully and logically (Aliyu, 2010). The crucial stages involved in the writing process as identified by writing scholars are: prewriting, first draft, evaluating, revising, editing and final draft.

The prewriting stage is otherwise called the preparatory stage and is the stage of idea incubation and development. It involves brainstorming, organizing an outline and developing a writing plan. This stage identifies what will form the core of the subject matter and the angle of the topic which includes introduction, the body and conclusion. Besides, the writer identifies the expected scope of the writing task, focuses on the style and language and interlinks all the different stages to be involved in the writing process (Aliyu, 2010). It is worthy to note here that the success or failure of any writing begins at the prewriting stage. Therefore, if someone lacks expressional ability and ideas which can be used to develop his composition, he cannot write.

To minimize students’ frustration and failure, Oyetunde and Muodumogu (1999) state that prewriting should involve thinking about and organizing ideas. Teachers should provide exciting displays in the classroom, read regularly to students and they should be given opportunities to react to, and talk about what they have listened to; and develop in students’ positive attitudes to writing – encouraging them to share ideas in class and by accepting and praising their contributions. For students to master the prewriting skills, the scholars reiterate that the writing teacher should model this process using his own topic for the students to follow as this will promote them to write.

Writing the first draft is the step where what is conceived at the prewriting stage is implemented. This practice promotes a positive attitude to revision and the objective/purpose of writing is captured with a selected number of words and sentences that form the introduction (Oyetunde & Muodumogu, 1999). These processes equally mark the beginning of writing and when this is done in a sustained manner, Olatoye (2010) posits that it grows into paragraphs that make up a composition. In building up the body of one’s writing, Aliyu (2010) proposes that arguments and counter arguments be raised with each argument in an argumentative writing, but if it is a descriptive or narrative, the writer should identify the main issues and possible solutions. A conclusion is always reached, based on the points/ideas presented. The writer reflects on the issues raised and reiterates such observations that are reorganized to be relevant.

Evaluating, revising and editing stage has to do with a careful re-reading of one’s writing or first draft, for improvements. All errors – grammar, paragraph indentation, spelling and punctuation are corrected; unrelated ideas are deleted, new ones are added, while some are restructured for consciences, clarity, coherence and logicality. Students therefore, should learn to edit their writing as if it were the work of others. This will enable the students to discover that words have been wrongly used or omitted, meaning is distorted, or that mistakes in spelling or punctuation have affected the style of presentation. This stage usually marks the end of the writing process, under examination or test condition.

Writing the final draft is the stage of preparation which follows editing. The draft is proofread and rewritten to ensure that errors are corrected. When the writer is satisfied with the content and organization, he rewrites the draft to have a final copy. At the stage of the final draft, all the grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, punctuation errors in the initial drafts are carefully eliminated, to convey the writer’s intended meaning and purpose. (Tarafder, 2007). Writers are to ensure that their final drafts are free of misspellings, omitted lines and inaccurate information as this will prevent confusion and misunderstanding of one’s writing. Final drafts are therefore, characterized by ideas that are clearly presented with details, facts, examples and anecdotes that follow the conventions of written English. Students and writers need to learn the skills or writing technicalities, to be able to write effectively. Otherwise Williams (2004) posits that writing will be a hit-or-miss affair since it is not acquired naturally.

School location: School location is the environmental condition around a school. It is seen in terms of urban and rural areas. Series of studies have investigated the impact of school location in learning outcomes. School location can affect students’ learning outcomes either positively or negatively (Owoeye & Yara, 2011). Location is key in determining the academic performance of students. Alokan and Arijusuyo (2013) reiterate the prevalence of a comparative inferiority of rural schools. This implies that there exist differences in students’ academic performance according to location. Alokan and Arijusuyo (2013) posits that rural and urban school differences extend to other desirable outcomes such as aptitude and intelligence. Equally, Uzoamaka and Ajiwoju (2015) confirm the existence of rural and urban school differential and further testify that some of the few factors that contribute to the rural and urban school students’ performance gap are availability of resources, rural/urban difference in socio-economic status and less parental and community involvement in education.

Like other issues in education, research comparing students in rural schools with their urban counterparts in academic performance, has yielded inconsistent findings. While Ramo, Duque & Nieto (2012) found no significant differences in the performance of students in urban and rural schools, Opoku-Asare and Siawos (2015) revealed that students’ performance in rural schools was lower than that of students in urban schools.

This implies that researches have not produced definite results on the comparison between the academic performance of students in urban and rural schools. Alokan and Arijusuyo (2013); Ramo, Duque and Nieto (2012) postulate reasons for such performance gaps ranging from migration of more educated people to urban areas, non-availability of resources (books, computers), to lack of materials to enhance the study of many subjects. Educational institutions are unevenly distributed in urban and rural areas. Many scholars establish the point that academic performance varies similarly (Iweka & Odiase, 2010; Owoeye & Yara, 2011). Thus, it has been established that environment favours students differently. Owoeye and Yara (2011) affirm that many Nigerian schools in rural areas are disadvantaged when compared with their urban counterparts, because they lack adequate facilities and good environment. Akombo (2013) agrees with this view and posits that this makes rural schools inferior to those in urban areas.

Many scholars (Ezeudu & Obi, 2013; Owoeye & Yara, 2011; Ramo, Duque & Nieto 2012) have studied the differential problems associated with schools located in urban and rural areas. While some establish a positive correlation between location of schools and their students’ academic performance, some others report that location of schools has little or no effect on students’ academic performance. (Iweka & Odiase, 2010).

Conversely, Owoeye and Yara (2011) found that students in urban schools performed better academically than their rural counterparts. Similarly, Adepoju and Oluchukwu (2011) established in their study that students’ performance in Mathematics and English language were higher in urbans schools than what was obtained in rural schools. Such disparity, according to Adepoju and Oluchukwu (2011) are not connected with location/distribution of schools in some areas without adequate consideration of the essential parameters such as population, structure, school-age, home-school distance, concentrating qualified teachers in the urban schools, inadequate provision of learning facilities among others. The researcher believes that since the school is a social system, there should be an interaction between the school and its environment. The extent to which an environment (rural/urban) affects the academic performance of students, as reported by various studies reviewed is not conclusive yet. Based on the foregoing observations, this work is aimed at investigating school location as it affects students’ performance in writing.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

It would appear as if the performances of students in public examinations are below the expected standard set by the examination bodies. The general public has continued to complain about the dwindling performance of students in public examinations. The West African Examinations Council Chief Examiner’s Report (WAEC, 2018) also attests to this poor performance. Thus, students performed poorly in English language as many compositions were seriously marred by poor spellings, poor punctuations and faulty grammar. Majority of students were ignorant of the basic components needed in an essay topic such as content, organization, expression and mechanical accuracy. These and similar problems triggered the research and of course, form the focus of this study of school location as it affects students’ performance in writing in secondary schools in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. What will be the performance of students in urban and rural schools in writing? Unless a comparison is made, it will be difficult to know where the poor performance is coming from.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The specific objective of the study is to: find out if the mean academic performance of students in urban schools would differ with that of students in rural schools, in writing.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

• What would be the difference between the mean academic performance of students in rural and urban schools in writing?

There is no significant difference between the mean academic performance of students in rural and urban schools, in writing.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The importance of this study lies in the implication which the findings will have on students in rural and urban schools. It is expected that findings from the study will be useful to school authorities, policy makers, and if the study’s recommendations are implemented, it would certainly improve the students’ performance in writing. It is hoped that this will be of immense significance to the school management and staff, as it will help them to remedy students’ weaknesses. This study is also important in that no similar study has been carried out on Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. This study will obviously serve as a mirror or working guide to managers of schools.

It will indeed be of paramount importance to the Ministry of Education, which is a policy maker, to schools and future researchers, who may like to carryout further research on the subject matter.

The study adopted the Ex-post-facto research design because the independent variables (urban and rural schools) have already occurred. The Ex-post-facto research design is aimed at the discovery of possible causes of behaviour pattern by comparing subjects in whom this pattern is present with similar subjects in whom the behaviour pattern is absent or present to a lesser degree (Emaikwe, 2015).

The population of the study consisted of 2,041: 986 male and 1055 female students) senior secondary II (SS2) students in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The sample size was 200 students, drawn from four sampled schools, using multistage sampling techniques. Stage 1: Two coeducational secondary schools each were selected from urban and rural areas, using stratified random sampling: College of Education Demonstration Secondary School Katsina-Ala, St. Gerard Majella Secondary School Katsina-Ala, Shitile Community Secondary School Katsina-Ala and Mbagena Comprehensive College, Shikaan. Only coeducational schools were selected, to take care of male and female participants. Stage 2: simple random sampling was used to select one contact class of SS2 students as participants in each of the four sampled schools.

One research tool for data collection was used namely the writing performance test (WPT) made up of five questions from National Examination Council (NECO, 2017) Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination. Mean and standard deviation of the various groups were used to answer the research question, while the hypothesis was tested at 0.05 level of significance using t-test of independent samples.

Research Question One:    

What would be the difference between the mean academic performance scores of students in rural and urban schools in writing?

Analysis of data to answer research questions one is in Table 1.

Table 1:          Mean and Standard Deviation of students in rural and urban schools in writing.

Table 1 shows that the mean score of students in urban schools was 18.09 while those of students in rural schools was 13.86. The mean difference of 4.23 implies that there was a difference between the mean academic performance of students in urban schools and students in rural schools in writing in favour of students in urban schools. The standard deviation scores were 8.129 and 8.574 for students in urban and rural schools respectively. This suggests that the scores of students in urban schoolswere homogeneous compared to those of rural schools.

Test of Hypothesis

There is no significant difference between the mean academic performance of students in rural and urban schools in writing.

Table 2: Independent samples t-test results of students in rural and urban schools in writing.

Table 2 shows that, the independent samples t-cal value was 3.58. The value was selected using the ‘equal variances, not assumed’ method since the Levene’s test for equality of variances was less than 0.05. The result based on 2-tailed test and 198 degrees of freedom (df) was significant at 0.05 level (0.00<0.05). This suggests that, the null hypothesis was not accepted. The null hypothesis which states that there is no significant difference between the mean academic performance of students in rural and urban schools in writing was therefore, not accepted since there exists a statistically significant difference between the mean academic performance of students in rural and urban schools in writing, in favour of students in urban schools.

DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

The study looked at school location as it affects students’ performance in writing. The discussion of findings is based on the variables of the study which was guided by one research question and a hypothesis.

The findings of the study revealed that students in urban schools performed better than their counterparts in rural schools. This implies that the students in urban schools were well grounded and that enabled them to have vast ideas as to what writing is all about. The National Teachers Institute (2000) reports that if we have no ideas, we cannot write anything. Students in urban schools have greater advantage in learning which apparently enriches their academic knowledge. Again, rural schools are inferior and lacking in facilities and suffer from lack of continuity in their curriculum and are staffed by young beginning and often inexperienced staff who regrettably would not conform to socio-cultural ethics and above all, offer a restricted curriculum, especially to secondary school students. Lack of adequate incentives in schools located in rural areas, would not encourage their teachers to remain in their duty post and put in their best, to enable their students to perform better compared to their urban counterparts.

Also, Owoeye& Yara (2011) asserts that distribution of teachers in rural schools is not comparable with the schools in urban areas. The population of teachers in rural schools is low because teachers do not accept transfer to rural areas. Most teachers prefer to stay in the schools in urban centres because of availability of social amenities such as electricity, good roads, means of communication, availability of teaching materials. Among these teachers, are highly qualified and experienced ones. This therefore, affects the academic performance of students in rural schools negatively and by extension, means schools in urban centres are generally given much more attention than those located in rural areas. In some urban schools, one would find enough teachers of English Language while in some rural schools, one hardly finds even one graduate of English Language on the staff list. This finding is consistent with Agada (2008), Onovughe (2011), Unwaha (2012) and Eze (2015) who found out that students in urban schools performed better than those in rural schools in writing. This implies that school location can affect the academic performance of students, either positively or negatively.

The study considered the effects of school location on the students’ performance in essay writing in Senior Secondary Schools in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, Benue State. Available literature was reviewed on writing and school location. Data were collected and analyzed based on the variables of the study.

Based on the findings from this research, one can conclude that there exists a poor performance of students at public examinations as put forward by the general public and attested toby the West Africa Examination Council’s Chief Examiner’s Report (2018). Specifically, the poor performance is from students in schools located in rural areas. However, if this issue is well managed, and resolved, the performance of the schools located in rural areas will improve.

RECOMMENDATIONS

In view of the findings drawn by the researcher, the following recommendations have been made:

• Experienced and qualified teachers should be posted to schools in rural areas, to boost the teaching of writing skills. This will help the students to improve in their writing practices.
• Teachers should motivate their students towards effective writing by giving encouraging comments to students’ writing practices. 
• Regular writing assessment practices should be given to students and immediate feedback should be given to them.
• Government should provide social amenities in the rural areas to attract teachers who are posted to such schools located there.
• Schools management should make their schools attractive by providing teaching/learning materials.
• Story books should be provided for general reading or as general reading texts.

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St. Petersburg , city and port, extreme northwestern Russia . A major historical and cultural centre and an important port, St. Petersburg lies about 400 miles (640 km) northwest of Moscow and only about 7° south of the Arctic Circle . It is the second largest city of Russia and one of the world’s major cities. St. Petersburg has played a vital role in Russian history since its founding in 1703. For two centuries (1712–1918) it was the capital of the Russian Empire . The city is remembered as the scene of the February (March, New Style) and October (November, New Style) Revolutions of 1917 and for its fierce defense while besieged during World War II . Architecturally, it ranks as one of the most splendid and congenial cities of Europe . Its historic district was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990. The city is also home to the 87-story Lakhta Centre, the tallest builiding in Russia and Europe and one of the tallest buildings in the world . Area city, 550 square miles (1,400 square km). Pop. (2010) 4,879,566; (2012 est.) 4,953,219.

St. Petersburg is a mecca of cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks. Founded by Tsar Peter I (the Great) as Russia’s “window on Europe,” it bears the unofficial status of Russia’s cultural capital and most European city, a distinction that it strives to retain in its perennial competition with Moscow. Three distinctive characteristics of St. Petersburg engage attention. The first is the city’s harmonious mix of western European and Russian architecture . Second is St. Petersburg’s lack of an unequivocal city centre, which, in other Russian cities of medieval origin, is defined by a kremlin and its surrounding area. The third characteristic feature of the city is its many waterways. The short but full-flowing tributaries and canals of the Neva River that stretch to the Baltic coast are inseparable from St. Petersburg’s panorama. Many of the city’s most famed architectural sites stretch along the Neva’s historic embankments. Moreover, the bridges and natural canals of the river have earned St. Petersburg the nickname “Venice of the North.” Because of St. Petersburg’s northerly location, the city enjoys the “White Nights,” from June 11 to July 2, when daylight extends to nearly 19 hours—another of St. Petersburg’s most acclaimed characteristics. Among the cultural events devoted to celebrating the White Nights are the festivals organized by the Mariinsky and Hermitage theatres and the Rimsky-Korsakov St. Petersburg State Conservatory. Each night during the White Nights, the bridges spanning the Neva are raised to let boat traffic through. After the collapse of the Soviet Union , St. Petersburg imbibed a new energy as crumbling facades, potholed roads, and cultural landmarks were renovated.

St. Petersburg is located on the delta of the Neva River , at the head of the Gulf of Finland . The city spreads across 42 islands of the delta and across adjacent parts of the mainland floodplain . The very low and originally marshy site has subjected the city to recurrent flooding, especially in the autumn, when strong cyclonic winds drive gulf waters upstream, and also at the time of the spring thaw. Exceptionally severe inundations occurred in 1777, 1824, and 1924; the last two were the highest on record and flooded most of the city. To control the destructive floodwaters, the city built in the 1980s an 18-mile- (29-km-) long dike across the Gulf of Finland. A number of canals also have been cut to assist drainage.

Greater St. Petersburg—the city itself with its satellite towns— forms a horseshoe shape around the head of the Gulf of Finland and includes the island of Kotlin in the gulf. On the north it stretches westward along the shore for nearly 50 miles (80 km) to include Zelenogorsk. This northern extension is an area of dormitory towns, resorts, sanatoriums, and children’s camps set among extensive coniferous forests and fringed by fine beaches and sand dunes. Some upper-class St. Petersburg residents also have summer cottages, or dachas, in this area. On the southern side of the gulf, the metropolitan limits extend westward to include Peterhof and Lomonosov . Eastward, Greater St. Petersburg stretches up the Neva River to Ivanovskoye.

The mitigating effect of the Atlantic Ocean provides St. Petersburg with a milder climate than might be expected for its far northern site. Nevertheless, winters are rather cold, with a mean January temperature of about 21 °F (−6 °C), a few degrees warmer than that for Moscow. Winter temperatures can drop below −40 °F (−40 °C), however. Snow cover lasts on the average about 132 days. The Neva begins to freeze normally about mid-November, and the ice is solid by the start of December; breakup begins in mid-April and usually is completed by the end of the month. Icebreakers prolong the navigation season. Summers are moderately warm, with an average temperature of 65 °F (18 °C) in July. Mean annual precipitation amounts to about 25 inches (634 mm), with the summer being the wettest period.

Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History Essays

Saint petersburg.

Ewer and basin (lavabo set)

Probably made at Chisinau Court Workshop

Andrei Nikiforovich Voronikhin

Alexander Danilovich Menshikov (1673–1729)

Unknown Artist, Swiss, Austrian, or German, active Russia ca. 1703–4

Samuel Margas Jr.

The Empress Elizabeth of Russia (1709–1762) on Horseback, Attended by a Page

Attributed to Georg Christoph Grooth

Table snuffbox

Niello scenes after a print entitled Naufrage (Shipwreck) by Jacques de Lajoüe , published in Paris 1736

Voltaire (François-Marie Arouet) (1694–1778)

Jean Antoine Houdon

Imperial Porcelain Manufactory, St. Petersburg

Cup with cover and saucer

Two bottle coolers

Zacharias Deichman the Elder

Catherine II The Great, Empress of Russia

Jean-Baptiste Nini

Coffee service

Johan Henrik Blom

Tureen with cover

Tureen with cover and stand

Jacques-Nicolas Roettiers

Possibly by Pierre-François-Mathis de Beaulieu (for Jean Georges)

Pair of scallop-shell dishes

Sugar bowl (from a tea service)

Workshop of David Roentgen

Beaker and saucer

David Roentgen and Company in Saint Petersburg

Johann Friedrich Anthing

Drop-front desk (secrétaire à abattant or secrétaire en cabinet)

Attributed to Martin Carlin

Pair of Flintlock Pistols of Empress Catherine the Great (1729–1796)

Johan Adolph Grecke

Gardner Manufactory

Center table

Imperial Armory, Tula (south of Moscow), Russia

Female Shaman

Pair of vases

Nikolai Stepanovich Vereshchagin

Jugate busts of Czarevitch Paul and Maria Feodorovna of Russia

James Tassie

Wolfram Koeppe Department of European Sculpture and Decorative Arts, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

October 2003

The Birth of Saint Petersburg Russia, or “Muscovy” as it was often called, had rarely been considered a part of Europe before the reign of Czar Peter I (Piotr Alexeievich), known as Peter the Great (r. 1682–1725). His supremacy marked the beginning of the country’s “Westernization,” whereby the political, economic, and cultural norms of the western European monarchies would become the basis for “civilizing” Russia. A radical transformation was needed to launch Russia into the modern world, a transformation later called the Petrine Revolution. The young czar, feeling oppressed by the medieval traditions and ecclesiastical patriarchy of seventeenth-century Moscow, wanted to Westernize Russia in a hurry, defying the sluggish pace of history.

Saint Petersburg was born on May 16, 1703 (May 5 by the old Julian Russian calendar). On that day, on a small island on the north bank of the Neva River, Peter cut two pieces of turf and placed them cross-wise. The setting was inauspicious. The area was a swamp that remained frozen from early November to March, with an annual average of 104 days of rain and 74 days of snow. The army, under the command of Alexander Menshikov ( 1996.7 ), had conquered the region shortly before. To show his gratitude, the czar later appointed Menshikov the first governor-general of Saint Petersburg. The fortification of the territory kept the Swedish enemy at bay and secured for Russia permanent access to the Baltic Sea. The partially ice-free harbor would be crucial to further economic development. All buildings on the site were erected on wooden poles driven into the marshy, unstable ground. Stones were a rare commodity in Russia, and about as valuable as precious metals.

The Dutch name “Piterburkh” (later changed to the German version, “Petersburg”) embodied the czar’s fascination with Holland and its small-scale urban architecture. He disliked patriarchal court ceremony and felt at ease in the bourgeois domestic life that he experienced during his travels throughout Europe on “the Great Embassy” (1697–98). However, the primary purpose of this voyage was to acquire firsthand knowledge of shipbuilding—his personal passion—and to learn about progressive techniques and Western ideas.

The victory over the Swedish army at Poltava in June 1709 elevated Russia to the rank of a European power, no longer to be ignored. Peter triumphed: “Now with God’s help the final stone in the foundation of Saint Petersburg has been laid.” By 1717, the city’s population of about 8,000 had tripled, and grew to around 40,000 by the time of Peter’s death in 1725. Saint Petersburg had become the commercial, industrial, administrative, and residential “metropolis” of Russia. By the 1790s, it had surpassed Moscow as the empire’s largest urban vicinity and was hailed as the “Venice of the North,” an allusion to the waterway system around the local “Grand Canal,” the Neva River.

Peter the Great’s Successors The short reign of Peter’s second wife, Empress Catherine I (r. 1725–27), who depended on her long-time favorite Menshikov, saw the reinstatement of the luxurious habits of the former imperial household. The archaic and ostentatious court display in the Byzantine tradition  that Peter had so despised was now to be restored under the pretext of glorifying his legacy. Enormous sums of money were lavished on foreign luxury items, demonstrating the court’s new international status and its observance of western European manners ( 68.141.133 ).

During the reigns of Empress Anna Ioannovna (r. 1730–40), niece of Peter I ( 1982.60.330a,b ), and her successor Elizabeth (Elizaveta Petrovna, r. 1741–62; 1978.554.2 ), Peter’s daughter, Saint Petersburg was transformed into a Baroque extravaganza through the talents of architect Bartolomeo Francesco Rastrelli (1700–1771) and other Western and Russian artisans. Foreign powers began to recognize Russia’s importance and competed for closer diplomatic relations. Foreign immigrants increased much faster than the local population, as scholars, craftsmen, artisans, and specialists of all kinds flocked to the country, and especially to Saint Petersburg ( 65.47 ; 1982.60.172,.173 ; 1995.327 ).

Catherine the Great (r. 1762–96) In a coup d’état assisted by the five Orloff brothers ( 33.165.2a–c ; 48.187.386,.387 ), Catherine II overthrew her husband, the ill-fated Peter III (r. 1762) and became empress. Catherine saw herself as the political heir of Peter the Great. A German-born princess of Anhalt-Zerbst who, after her marriage, became more Russian than any native, Catherine aimed at completing Peter’s legacy ( 52.189.11 ; 48.73.1 ). Having lived in isolation in the shadow of Elizabeth I since her marriage to the grand duke in 1745, the time had come to satisfy her thirst for life and her insatiable quest for culture and international recognition. An admirer of the Enlightenment and devoted aficionada of Voltaire’s writings, Catherine stimulated his cult in Russia ( 1972.61 ). In response, the French philosopher dedicated a poem to the czarina; her reply, dated October 15, 1763, initiated a correspondence that influenced the empress on many matters until Voltaire’s death in 1778. The hothouse cultural climate of Saint Petersburg during Catherine’s reign can be compared to the artistic and intellectual ferment in New York City in the second half of the twentieth century.

Catherine’s desire to enhance her fame and her claim to the throne was immortalized by her own witty play on words in Latin: “Petro Primo / Catharina Secunda” (To Peter the First / from Catherine the Second). This she had inscribed on the vast lump of granite in the form of a wave supporting the Bronze Horseman on the banks of the Neva in front of Saint Isaac’s Cathedral in Saint Petersburg. This triple-lifesize equestrian figure of Peter the Great took the French sculptor Falconet twelve years to complete, until it was finally cast—after three attempts—in 1782.

Catherine had military expansion plans for Russia and a cultural vision for its capital Saint Petersburg. Above all, she knew how to attract devoted supporters. Only nine days after the overthrow of her husband, Catherine wrote to Denis Diderot, offering to print his famous Encyclopédie , which had been banned in France. Catherine recognized the power of art to demonstrate political and social maturity. She acquired entire collections of painting ( Watteau , for example), sculpture, and objects. The empress avoided anything that could be called mediocre or small. With the help of sophisticated advisors, such as Prince Dmitrii Golitsyn, her ambassador in Paris, Denis Diderot, Falconet, and the illustrious Baron Friedrich Melchior von Grimm, the empress assembled the core of today’s State Hermitage Museum. Catherine favored luxury goods from all over Europe ( 33.165.2a–c ; 48.187.386,.387 ; 17.190.1158 ). She commissioned Sèvres porcelain and Wedgwood pottery as well as hundreds of pieces of ingeniously conceived furniture from the German manufactory of David Roentgen in Neuwied ( 48.73.1 ). Furthermore, she encouraged and supported Russian enterprises and craftsmen, like local silversmiths ( 47.51.1–.5 ; 1981.367.1,.2 ) and the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory ( 1982.60.171 ; 1982.60.177,.178 ; 1982.60.175 ), as well as privately owned manufactories ( 1982.60.158 ). Catherine especially liked the sparkling decorative products of the Tula armory steel workshop ( 2002.115 ), genuine Russian art forms with a fairy-tale-like appearance, and in 1775 merged her large collection of Tula objects with the imperial crown jewels in a newly constructed gallery at the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg.

Catherine’s son and successor Paul I (Pavel Petrovich, r. 1796–1801) disliked his mother and her aesthetic sensibility ( 1998.13.1,.2 ). As grand duke, he had spent most of his time with his second wife Maria Feodorovna ( 1999.525 ) outside of Saint Petersburg, in Gatchina Palace and Pavlovsk Palace. These they transformed into the finest Neoclassical architectural gems in Europe ( 1976.155.110 ; 2002.115 ).

Koeppe, Wolfram. “Saint Petersburg.” In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History . New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/stpt/hd_stpt.htm (October 2003)

Further Reading

Cracraft, James. The Petrine Revolution in Russian Imagery . Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1997.

Koeppe, Wolfram, and Marina Nudel. "An Unsuspected Bust of Alexander Menshikov." Metropolitan Museum Journal 35 (2000), pp. 161–77.

Shvidkovsky, Dmitri, and Alexander Orloff. St. Petersburg: Architecture of the Tsars . New York: Abbeville, 1995.

Additional Essays by Wolfram Koeppe

• Koeppe, Wolfram. “ Abraham and David Roentgen .” (June 2013)
• Koeppe, Wolfram. “ Hungarian Silver .” (February 2016)
• Koeppe, Wolfram. “ Collecting for the Kunstkammer .” (October 2002)

Related Essays

• Byzantium (ca. 330–1453)
• Sèvres Porcelain in the Nineteenth Century
• Abraham and David Roentgen
• Antoine Watteau (1684–1721)
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• East and West: Chinese Export Porcelain
• Edward Lycett (1833–1910)
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• French Porcelain in the Eighteenth Century
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• James McNeill Whistler (1834–1903)
• James McNeill Whistler (1834–1903) as Etcher
• The Neoclassical Temple
• Neoclassicism
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List of Rulers

• List of Rulers of Europe
• Central Europe (including Germany), 1600–1800 A.D.
• Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1600–1800 A.D.
• France, 1600–1800 A.D.
• Iran, 1600–1800 A.D.
• Low Countries, 1600–1800 A.D.
• 17th Century A.D.
• 18th Century A.D.
• Architecture
• Baroque Art
• Eastern Europe
• French Literature / Poetry
• Gilt Silver
• Scandinavia

Artist or Maker

• Anthing, Johann Friedrich
• Beaulieu, Pierre-François-Mathis de
• Blom, Johan Henrik
• Bouillat, Edme François, I
• Carlin, Martin
• Chisinau Court Workshop
• Deichman, Zacharias, the Elder
• Feodorovna, Maria
• Gardner Factory
• Grecke, Johan Adolph
• Grooth, Georg Christoph
• Houdon, Jean Antoine
• Imperial Armory, Tula
• Imperial Porcelain Manufactory
• Lajoüe, Jacques de
• Margas, Samuel, Jr.
• Nini, Jean-Baptiste
• Prudhomme, Elie
• Roentgen, David
• Roettiers, Jacques-Nicolas
• Rotari, Pietro
• Sèvres Manufactory
• Tassie, James
• Vereshchagin, Nikolai Stepanovich
• Voronikhin, Andrei N.
• Watteau, Antoine

Online Features

• 82nd & Fifth: “Curls” by Wolfram Koeppe