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Read This Teen's Essay About Her Mom That Has Everyone Ugly Crying On TikTok

A teenager's heartbreaking essay has gone viral, leaving TikTok users sobbing.

At age 18 Ryan Harmann wrote a gut-wrenching piece after losing her mother to cancer. Harmann shared the beautiful piece on her TikTok this week, saying it "made her English professor cry." Well, now we're all crying.

The TikTok video has been viewed almost seven million times and racked up more than one million likes, despite just being screenshots of the essay. We've transcribed them all here for easier reading.

It was May of 2022, when my life was supposed to be at its peak, until one day it wasn't. I had high school graduation and senior week at the beach with my graduating class. I was starting my adulthood and my college career and I couldn't have been happier. In January of 2021, my mom got diagnosed with Sarcoma Cancer and had to undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatments. From the day she was diagnosed, she lost a different part of her life everyday. She was strong, resilient, loving, caring and most of all the best mom anyone could ask for. She never asked the doctors for a time expectancy, she wanted to live the best she could with her three children and her husband. My mom had a goal from the start, to watch me go to my senior prom and to see me and my sister, Madeleine, walk across the stage at graduation. She achieved both of those goals.

May 26, 2022, I walked across that stage at graduation, with my mom in a wheelchair watching proudly. The first step I took on that stage, I felt her overwhelming amount of love and knew she was she proud and that was all that mattered in that moment. After I graduated, I received a text, "I love you so so much and am so proud of you." Those words felt like I just won the Super Bowl. She didn't get out of the house much so her being able to attend graduation was a big accomplishment and it took a lot out of her. We had a celebratory dinner at home and she was too exhausted to stay awake for dinner. Although it was upsetting that she wasn't at dinner, I was just thankful she was able to be there and meet her goal.

I was looking forward to going on my week-long beach trip with all of my best friends that night. All week long while I was away, I was texting my mom, telling her all of the drama going on with all of my friends and FaceTiming her. Until Friday came along and my mom stopped answering my texts and my FaceTime calls. I was a little worried and debated texting my dad to see if she was okay, but I let it go and continued on with my last night at the beach.

I was excited to get back home and tell my family all about the week I had. Instead, I came home to my mom in bed and my dad sat me and my two older siblings down and told us that our mom wasn't doing well and he was very worried. At the time, I was thinking my dad was freaking out and exaggerating and that she was going to be OK. After a lot of thinking, my dad decided to take her to the hospital. She walked from her room, downstairs and into the car. At the hospital, they told her that her spine is 75 percent collapsed because of the tumors growing rapidly. I thought to myself that my mom was a superstar, she just walked on a spine that almost was completely collapsed. From that point on, my mom entered hospice care and did not get back up from her bed.

We called all of our family and friends and let them know that her life was coming to an end. The first couple days following her entering hospice care, I was in shock, I didn't believe that my mom was going to die when I was only 18 years old. I remember sending a text to my sister, Madeleine, and asking "Is Mom going to die?" Her response was, "In a few weeks, yeah." My heart shattered into a million pieces. I knew from that point on, I was going to take advantage of the time left with my mom and not have any regrets. I did not want to look back at the last few weeks I had left with my mom and think "I wish I spent more time with her" so I did everything in my power to protect my future self from regret. As friends and family members were coming by, I was laying in bed right next to my mom, holding her hand. I couldn't imagine what my life was going to become. My mom reminded as daily that she loved us and that when she passes, she wants us to move forward. She told us, "When I take my last breath, I want you guys to dance, don't cry, dance."

Days started to blur together as my mom went in and out of consciousness for the next couple weeks. I remember sitting in bed, with my door open and my parents bedroom door open too, scared that I would hear her take her last breath. She started talking in her sleep and talking to her deceased mother telling her that she would see her soon.

The stress that my family endured is not something I would not wish on anyone. We were on lockdown, spending time with my mom and watching her slowly go through the different stages of death. I was in a mental block, I wasn't eating as much as I should've, my main focus was spending as much time as I could with her. On July 7th, my mom said to my dad "I'm so tired I need to go, I will see you later," as she closed her eyes. My dad came down the stairs and told us we all need to go say our final goodbyes. My older siblings went up first. I started pacing back and forth, I did not want to say bye to my best friend. I started my journey up the stairs, with tears rolling down my cheeks, and I stopped, I couldn't do it. I walked into my parents bathroom until I built the courage to go and say goodbye. I walked to my mom, kissed her on the forehead and told her I would see her later and that I loved her.

When the news spread that it might be the day she passed, family members were coming to say their goodbyes, until my mom randomly woke up. At this point, she has been in hospice for 4.5 weeks. When she opened her eyes, I was upset. I was upset my mom was alive. I felt like such a horrible human. I walked outside with my heart in my stomach as I saw my dad leaned over crying talking on the phone. I couldn't imagine going through the process of saying goodbye again. My mom was up and talking for about 5 more days until she went back into a state of total unconsciousness. My dad decided to kick me and my siblings out, and send us to our aunt's house at the beach because he didn't want us to see her in that state anymore.

The beach was my moms favorite place. She would sit on the beach from 9 AM-5 PM every chance she would get. She would take any chance she got to go to the beach, especially since it meant spending more time with her kids. She always had a Grapefruit Crush in her hand and soaked up the sun. She looked so beautiful on the beach and she was in her element. I was sitting on the beach, and had a thought that I needed to tell my mom, but realized I couldn't. My mom was still alive, but I couldn't talk to her. I felt weak. I didn't want this to be the end. I had tears in my eyes as my sister said "Ryan, me and Tommy (my brother) are going to go to Jason Aldean on Sunday, do you want to go? I wanted to go, but for some reason the word "no" came out of my mouth. From that moment forward, all I could think about was my mom. I told my siblings I wanted to go back home that night, I couldn't be away from mom anymore.

When we got back home, there was no change in my moms status. We were told, by hospice, to leave her be and she will go on her own. A few days after returning home from the beach, I woke up and my siblings got ready to go to the concert as me and my dad stayed home with my mom. Around 3 PM, I took a nap and woke up to my dad coming out of their room and said "can you go check her breathing?" I went in and she had the death rattle, I knew today was the day. From then on, my dad and I alternated going in and checking on her until about 7:30. We layed in bed with her and realized her skin was ice cold. I layed there until I couldn't anymore, and I went downstairs. Around 9 PM, my worst nightmare came true. I heard my dads footsteps, and turned the corner and said "I think so, I think she's gone." I had never felt a true heart break and such emptiness ever.

We then had to call my siblings at the concert. We called each of them about 20 times. My brother finally picked up and we had to tell them over the phone. I heard my sister scream and sob, that was the moment where I realized this is real life. Friends and family members started trickling in, I met my siblings outside and hugged them in the driveway as they came home from the concert. My sister looked up at me and said, "we didn't answer your calls because we were dancing. We were dancing when mom took her last breath, just like she wanted." I felt relief in this moment, my mom passed away just the way she wanted to and I knew she wasn't in pain anymore.

As I continue living life without my mom, I realize every single thing I do is to make her proud. I have matured and grown as an individual. As I am constantly paralyzed by the pain that is caused by her death, I remind myself that I am lucky enough to feel this great amount of pain because my mother was such a phenomenal person. There is nothing I wish more than to be able to pick up the phone and call my mom, but I feel peace that she is watching over me and sees my every move. She fought her hardest fight for a month and half to give us the time we desperately needed to say goodbye to her, and for that, I will forever be grateful. I celebrate her existence everyday and am so incredibly grateful to have the best Angel looking over me.

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Dear author, your poignant article about the loss of your mother touched my soul. The depth of your emotions and the vulnerability in your words brought tears to my eyes. I am truly sorry for your loss and can only imagine the pain you must be feeling. May your mother's soul rest in eternal peace, and may you find solace and strength in the cherished memories you shared. Sending prayers and healing thoughts your way.

In my prayers.

I have been there. I'm really excited that you got that experience, some people go through life and never know This makes us all more understanding of life and death. Yeah it's hard but,I would not have missed it for anything. Praying for you and your family

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Ryan Harman lost her mom to cancer last year.

In an essay for her English class, she divulged the heart-wrenching journey from diagnosis to death — bringing the internet and her West Virginia University professor to tears.

Harman shared the lengthy text in a viral TikTok video this week, garnering more than 13 million views and 45,000 teary responses.

At a time when her life was “supposed to be at its peak,” everything fell apart, she wrote, explaining that her mom was diagnosed with sarcoma, which invades bones and soft tissue , in 2021.

Harman went on to write that her mom got to see her and her sister graduate from high school, but it wasn’t until the newly minted graduate was on a celebratory beach trip with friends that things went downhill.

Her mom stopped replying to texts and calls, and when Harman returned home, her mom was bedridden with a 75% collapsed spine due to tumor growth.

Dedicated to a life of no regrets, Harman spent as much time as possible with her mom, laying in bed with her, holding her hand.

“She told us, ‘When I take my last breath, I want you guys to dance, don’t cry, dance,'” Harman wrote, expressing shock that she would be losing her mother at just 18.

In the summer of 2022, Harman’s siblings attended a Jason Aldean concert while she opted to stay home — that ended up being the night their mom died. Harman and her father rang them “about 20 times” until someone picked up.

When they arrived home, Harman’s sister said: “We didn’t answer your calls because we were dancing. We were dancing when mom took her last breath, just like she wanted.”

That was the line that choked up viewers .

“The dancing part got me,” one viewer admitted. “I am so sorry for your loss.”

“‘We didn’t answer your calls because we were dancing,'” another quoted. “I lost it.”

“I can’t stop crying,” confessed someone else.

“This broke my heart in the most beautiful way,” a TikToker agreed.

Some invested readers even made their own videos in response, many showing themselves tearing up or fully crying .

“No bc that essay deserves an award,” one user wrote on a clip .

“Me sobbing in the middle of work bc I read the essay,” shared another person on their own video . “‘We didn’t answer bc we were dancing.'”

The Post has reached out to Harman for comment.

“There is nothing I wish more than to be able to pick up the phone and call my mom, but I feel peace that she is watching over me and sees my every move,” Harman wrote.

“I celebrate her existence everyday and am so incredibly grateful to have the best Angel looking over me,” she concluded the essay.

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Ryan Harman: the Essay That Made the Teacher Cry

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The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry: A Journey Within

“The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry” has recently become a viral sensation in the rapid and ever-evolving digital landscape of today. With content varying from humorous memes to touching tales effortlessly captivating millions globally, the internet serves as a grand stage for global sharing and connection.

This essay, crafted meticulously by a high school student, has not only mesmerized its widespread readers but also moved its initial recipient, the student’s English teacher, to tears. With its deeply emotional and stirring content, the essay resonates with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

It underscores the significance of emotional intelligence, emphasizing its powerful role and the indelible impact it can imprint on others. This piece of writing stands testament to the innate human potential for empathy, understanding, and the transformative influence wielded by words.

The Power of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, often overlooked in favor of more quantifiable skills, is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It plays a crucial role in our personal and professional lives, allowing us to navigate relationships, make informed decisions, and empathize with others.

This essay, written by a teenager, beautifully captures the essence of emotional intelligence and its profound impact on the people around us. It serves as a testament to the power of emotional understanding and the deep connections it can foster.

The Essay That Moved a Teacher to Tears

The essay, titled “A Journey Through Emotions,” was assigned as a class project on the topic of emotional intelligence. The teenage student, who wishes to remain anonymous, poured their heart and soul into the assignment, sharing personal experiences and reflections on their own emotional journey.

They delved into their deepest feelings, exploring their emotional growth and the lessons they had learned along the way. Little did they know that their words would have such a profound effect on their teacher, moving them to tears and sparking a wave of emotional resonance that would soon spread across the internet.

A Personal Connection

The teacher, who has been teaching for over a decade, was deeply moved by the essay. It resonated with them on a personal level, as they too had experienced similar emotions and challenges throughout their own life.

The raw honesty and vulnerability displayed in the essay struck a chord with the teacher, reminding them of the power of emotional intelligence and the importance of acknowledging and expressing our emotions. The essay served as a mirror, reflecting their own experiences and emotions, and highlighting the universal nature of emotional struggles and growth.

The Impact of the Essay

After reading the essay, the teacher couldn’t help but shed tears. They were not tears of sadness, but rather tears of empathy and understanding. The essay had touched them in a way that no other piece of writing had before.

It reminded them of the power of emotional intelligence and the profound impact it can have on our lives. The essay served as a catalyst, sparking a wave of emotional resonance that would soon spread across the internet. It was a testament to the power of words and the deep emotional connections they can foster.

Going Viral

The teacher, deeply moved by the essay, decided to share it with their colleagues and friends. They posted it on their social media platforms, hoping to share the powerful message with others. Little did they know that it would soon go viral, capturing the attention of millions of people around the world.

The essay was shared on various social media platforms, where it quickly gained traction and started to spread like wildfire. It resonated with people from all walks of life, sparking a wave of emotional resonance and highlighting the universal nature of emotional struggles and growth.

The Internet’s Response

The internet was captivated by the emotional essay, with many people expressing their own experiences and emotions in response. The comments section of the post was flooded with messages of support, empathy, and gratitude. People from all walks of life shared how the essay had touched them and reminded them of the importance of emotional intelligence in their own lives.

The essay sparked a wave of emotional resonance, with people from all over the world connecting over their shared experiences and emotions. It served as a reminder of the universal nature of emotional struggles and growth, and the profound impact that our words can have.

Lessons Learned

This viral essay serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that emotional intelligence can have on others. It highlights the importance of acknowledging and expressing our emotions, as well as the power of vulnerability and authenticity.

The essay also serves as a call to action, urging readers to cultivate their own emotional intelligence and to be more empathetic and understanding towards others. It serves as a testament to the power of emotional understanding and the deep connections it can foster.

In a world that often values logic and reason over emotions, this emotional essay serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of emotional intelligence. It has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world, reminding us of the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and empathy.

As we navigate through life, let us remember the lessons learned from this essay and strive to cultivate our own emotional intelligence, making the world a more compassionate and understanding place for all. Let this essay serve as a reminder of the profound impact that our words can have, and the deep emotional connections they can foster.

Ricky Nguyen is a talented author and journalist known for his expertise in covering the latest news about celebrities and the entertainment industry. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Ricky has made a name for himself as a prominent figure in the world of entertainment journalism.

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The Guardian Blogs

The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry: A Story of Impactful Writing

Introduction

In the realm of education, the power of words transcends mere communication; it has the ability to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and leave a lasting impact. One such profound experience was witnessed in a classroom setting when a student penned down an essay that moved their English teacher to tears. This essay not only showcased the student’s mastery of language but also delved into deeper emotions and themes that resonated profoundly. In this article, we will explore the journey of how a simple assignment turned into a poignant expression of human experience, leaving an indelible mark on both teacher and student.

Understanding the Assignment

Heading 1: Unraveling the Assignment

The genesis of this transformative essay lies in a seemingly ordinary classroom assignment. Assigned by the English teacher, Ms. Thompson, the task was simple: write a reflective essay on a personal experience that had a significant impact on one’s life. The instructions were clear, yet the potential for profound introspection and emotional expression was immense. You can also read Simplifying SSIS 816: A Comprehensive Guide

The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry

Heading 2: The Composition

Within the confines of a blank sheet of paper, the student embarked on a journey of self-reflection and storytelling. They poured their thoughts, emotions, and memories onto the page, weaving together a narrative that would ultimately resonate deeply with their audience. The primary keyword, “the essay that made my English teacher cry,” encapsulates the essence of this narrative, hinting at the emotional depth and resonance embedded within its lines.

Heading 3: Crafting Emotion

As the essay unfolded, the reader (in this case, Ms. Thompson) was taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. The student masterfully crafted their words to evoke empathy, sympathy, and ultimately, tears. Through vivid descriptions, heartfelt anecdotes, and raw vulnerability, they painted a picture of human experience that transcended the confines of the classroom.

Heading 4: Tears of Empathy

As Ms. Thompson read through the essay, she found herself deeply moved by the student’s words. Each sentence resonated with her on a personal level, stirring up memories, emotions, and reflections of her own. The essay tapped into universal themes of love, loss, resilience, and hope, striking a chord that reverberated within the depths of her soul.

Heading 5: A Lesson in Humanity

The tears that welled up in Ms. Thompson’s eyes were not merely tears of sadness but also tears of profound empathy and understanding. In that moment, she realized the true power of literature and writing – to connect, to heal, and to inspire. The student’s essay served as a poignant reminder of the human experience and the importance of empathy in both teaching and learning.

In the end, the essay that made my English teacher cry was more than just a piece of writing; it was a testament to the power of words to touch hearts, provoke thoughts, and inspire change. Through its emotional resonance and profound insight, it left an indelible mark on both teacher and student, reminding them of the transformative potential of storytelling. As we reflect on this powerful narrative, let us remember the words of Maya Angelou: Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.

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Teenager's essay about her mother reduces English teacher to tears

A teen’s heartwrenching essay that made her professor cry has gone viral on TikTok leaving readers “sobbing”.

Teenager Ryan Harman penned the personal essay when she was just 18 years old after losing her mother to cancer.

The TikTok has been viewed almost 7 million times and racked up 1 million likes as Harman shared screenshots of the story she penned about her mother’s untimely death.

Harman’s heartbreaking story began with her explaining that her mother had been diagnosed with Sarcoma cancer in January 2021.

At the time, Harman explained, her mum made it her mission to be around to see her children graduate and attend prom.

The TikToker wrote: “She never asked the doctors for a time expectancy, she wanted to live the best she could with her 3 children and her husband.

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“My mom had a goal from the start, to watch me go to my senior prom and to see me and my sister, Madeline, walk across the stage at graduation. She achieved both of those goals.”

As her mother’s condition worsened, Harman described the agony of knowing she was going to lose her mother, writing: “My heart shattered into a million pieces.”

Harman recalled being by her mother’s side almost constantly towards the end and feeling a sense of “relief” when the final moment came that “my mom passed away just the way she wanted to and I knew she wasn’t in pain anymore”.

The essay left other TikTokers in tears, with many in the comments commenting on how proud her mother would be of her.

“I can’t stop crying,” one person commented.

Another said: “Beautifully written, I know she is so proud of you.”

Someone else wrote: “I’m sobbing.”

One TikToker commented: “This has me ugly crying right now, you’re so strong. I know your mom is so proud of who you’ve become.”

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Student’s Emotional Essay Touches English Teacher’s Heart

As a high school student, it’s not often that you come across an assignment that truly moves your teacher to tears. But for Ryan Harman, a senior at Lincoln High School, that’s exactly what happened when he submitted his most recent English essay. The emotional depth and raw honesty of his writing touched the heart of his English teacher, Mrs. Thompson, and left a lasting impact on everyone who had the opportunity to read it.

The Impact of Ryan’s Essay

Ryan’s essay was a personal reflection on his struggles with anxiety and depression, and how writing has become his outlet for coping with these challenges. In his essay, he vividly describes the feelings of isolation and fear that often accompany mental health issues, and how he discovered solace in the act of putting pen to paper. Mrs. Thompson was deeply moved by Ryan’s willingness to open up about such personal experiences, as well as his ability to articulate his emotions with such clarity and insight.

The essay not only showcased Ryan’s exceptional writing skills, but it also provided a powerful message of hope and resilience to anyone who has ever faced similar struggles. Mrs. Thompson knew that Ryan’s words had the potential to inspire and comfort others who may be going through similar experiences, and she was overwhelmed by the bravery and vulnerability displayed in his writing.

The Emotional Response

When Mrs. Thompson first read Ryan’s essay, she was immediately struck by the emotional depth and vulnerability present in his words. As she continued to read, she found herself becoming increasingly moved by the raw honesty and authenticity of his writing. By the time she finished the essay, tears were streaming down her face, and she knew that she had just encountered something truly special.

After composing herself, Mrs. Thompson knew that she had to share Ryan’s essay with her colleagues and students. She believed that his words had the power to start important conversations about mental health and the importance of self-expression. She also knew that Ryan’s essay could serve as a reminder to everyone that it’s okay to ask for help and to express your emotions in healthy ways.

The Aftermath

After sharing Ryan’s essay with the rest of the school, the response was overwhelmingly positive. Students and teachers alike were deeply moved by the honesty and vulnerability displayed in his words, and many shared their own stories of struggle and recovery as a result of reading his essay. Ryan himself was surprised by the impact his writing had on others and was grateful for the opportunity to share his experiences in such a public forum.

As a result of the attention his essay received, Ryan was invited to speak at an assembly about mental health awareness and the importance of seeking help when needed. His words resonated with everyone in the audience, and he received numerous messages of support and gratitude for his willingness to share his story. Ryan’s essay had not only touched the heart of his English teacher, but it had also impacted the entire school community in a deeply meaningful way.

Ryan Harman’s essay was a powerful reminder of the impact that personal storytelling can have on those who hear it. His willingness to open up about his struggles with mental health not only touched the heart of his English teacher, but it also resonated with an entire school community. Ryan’s essay served as a catalyst for important conversations about mental health and the importance of self-expression, and it provided comfort and inspiration to those who may be going through similar experiences. His words were a testament to the power of writing as a tool for healing and catharsis, and they left a lasting impact on everyone who had the opportunity to read them.

1. What inspired Ryan to write such a personal essay?

Ryan was inspired to write about his struggles with mental health as a way to cope with his own experiences, and to provide comfort and inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges.

2. How did the school community respond to Ryan’s essay?

The response to Ryan’s essay was overwhelmingly positive, with students and teachers alike expressing their gratitude for his willingness to share his story and start important conversations about mental health.

3. What impact did Ryan’s essay have on the school community?

Ryan’s essay had a profound impact on the school community, sparking important conversations about mental health and the importance of self-expression. It also provided comfort and inspiration to those who may be struggling with similar experiences.

the essay that made my english teacher cry ryan harman As an English teacher, I’ve read countless essays over the years, but there are always a few that stand out. One such essay was written by a student of mine, and it touched my heart in a way I’ll never forget. The essay was about the struggles the student had faced in their personal life, and how they had overcome them through the power of words and self-expression.

The essay was raw, emotional, and incredibly honest. The student poured their heart onto the page, detailing the challenges they had faced and the impact those challenges had on their mental and emotional well-being. It was clear that writing this essay had been a cathartic experience for them, and the vulnerability they displayed was both brave and inspiring.

Reading the essay, I felt a deep sense of empathy and compassion for the student. It was a reminder of the power of storytelling and the ability of language to connect us at the most fundamental level. The student’s words were a window into their soul, and I felt honored to have been trusted with such a personal and meaningful piece of writing.

The essay also highlighted the student’s resilience and strength. Despite the obstacles they had faced, they had found solace and healing in writing. It was a testament to the transformative power of language, and it reminded me of the profound impact that literature and creative expression can have on our lives.

After reading the essay, I knew that I had to reach out to the student and let them know how much their words had moved me. I wanted to acknowledge the courage it took to write such a personal essay and commend them for their honesty and vulnerability. I also wanted to offer my support and encouragement, and let them know that they had a safe space in my classroom to continue expressing themselves through writing.

The student’s essay was a reminder of why I became a teacher in the first place. It was a powerful demonstration of the impact I could have on my students’ lives, and it reaffirmed my commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive environment in my classroom. It was a poignant reminder that every student has a story to tell, and that by listening and providing a platform for their voices to be heard, I could make a difference in their lives. The essay touched my heart in a profound way, and it will stay with me for the rest of my career. the essay that made my english teacher cry ryan harman

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The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry

Table of Contents

Introduction 

The Power of Personal Writing: We all have pivotal moments in our lives – events and experiences that shape who we are.  Putting these moments into words, especially at a young age, can be incredibly challenging yet rewarding. This is the story of how a personal essay I wrote in high school elicited an unexpected reaction from my English teacher. Through vivid details and raw emotion, my article on losing my father to cancer moved my teacher to tears. This experience taught me the power of heartfelt writing in expressing grief, inspiring strength and empathy, and forging human connection.

Chapter 1:  The Assignment That Started It All 

The Seeds of My Essay Are Planted It was the Spring of my junior year and the last assignment in my AP English Language class. For the final essay, my teacher, Ms. Thompson, told us we could write about any personal experience that has significantly shaped our lives. I stayed up that night, sifting through memories, moments, and milestones. Then it hit me – the most painful yet transformative event was undoubtedly my father’s battle with lung cancer. His diagnosis when I was 14, followed by the grueling treatments, his inspiring strength, and ultimately his death just before my 16th birthday.

Brainstorming the Outline 

I started by jotting down memories and moments that stood out from my dad’s cancer journey. His initial diagnosis, telling me he was proud of me throughout treatment, gifting me his watch when he went into hospice care, and our final goodbye hug. I noted the sights, smells, and conversations word for word. I wanted to immerse readers fully in those difficult yet precious times. After compiling pages of notes, I made an outline categorizing everything into a narrative arc highlighting my dad’s diagnosis, treatment, Final goodbye, and death. This Outline became my roadmap.

Why This Topic? 

Writing has always been cathartic, a way to process emotions and make sense of experiences. I also wanted to honor my dad and share a glimpse into the incredible person that he was. Most importantly, relating the universal experience of losing a parent could help readers going through similar grief feel less alone. By bravely sharing my vulnerability, I aimed to inspire strength and comfort in others.

Chapter 2:  Crafting the Essay 

Pulling Together the First Draft Staring at the blinking cursor on the blank Word document, I was initially overwhelmed . How could I possibly translate profound grief into words on a page? Where do I even start? I took a deep breath, referred to my Outline, and recounted memories. The day my dad first told me about his stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. The exhaustion in his eyes after radiation and chemo sessions. He’d proclaim his inspiring mantra, “We can and we will!” after vomiting from treatments.

The scenes flowed one after another, transporting me back to those difficult moments. I found myself sobbing as I typed, almost reliving the experiences. After hours of typing furiously with tears streaming down my face, I had a five-page first draft chronicling my dad’s cancer battle. It was raw, honest, and Only the beginning.

The Revision Process 

I let the essay marinate for a few days before rereading it with fresh eyes. With more objectivity, I could see areas that needed refinement and reworking. Some scenes required more specifics, while others got bogged down in unnecessary details. With my teacher’s feedback and countless rounds of editing, I chiseled away, shaping the essay into a sculpted story. I focused on striking a balance between being descriptive yet concise emotive yet subtle. After about two weeks of working iteratively, I had crafted a powerful 2000-word personal narrative I was ready to share.

Chapter 3:  Presenting My Essay 

The Moment of Truth On the last day of our English class, all students presented our final essays in front of the course and Ms. Thompson. Adrenaline pumping, I volunteered to go first. I was incredibly nervous, hands shaking as I stood before my peers, clutching my essay on crumpled notebook paper. I cleared my throat and dove in, returning to the memories that inspired my writing. My voice quivered, describing my dad’s hospice care and death, but I pressed on, determined to make it through.

A Powerful Reaction 

Glancing up occasionally, I gauged my teacher’s and fellow students’ reactions as I read. Most sat silently, a few dabbing tears from their eyes. As expected, reliving my dad’s death elicited an emotional response. What I didn’t expect, however, was the reaction when I finished. Ms. Thompson, typically reserved and stoic, was quietly crying, tears streaming down her cheeks. The room fell silent until she suddenly stood up and hugged me, sobbing into my shoulder. I was in sheer disbelief. This essay struck an emotional chord, and her unusually vulnerable reaction moved me.

Praise and Positive Feedback 

When Ms. Thompson finally composed herself, she praised me. She said that was the most moving, well-written essay she had ever read from a student. She loved the juxtaposition depicting my dad’s strength and perseverance despite his declining health. The way I wove in sensory details to fully immerse readers in the most impactful scenes. And how the linear structure smoothly flowed, bringing readers on my grief journey with me. Her effusive praise and equally effusive tears in front of classmates left me proud.

Chapter 4:  Reflecting On My Essay’s Impact 

An Unexpected Connection through Grief While I set out to write this essay for personal healing and to honor my dad, I formed a special connection with Ms. Thompson. She later told me that she also lost her dad to cancer when she was a teenager. My essay brought up those feelings of grief she still carries today. By eloquently relaying my own experience, my writing resonated on a profoundly personal level with her. We formed a unique student-teacher bond built on shared grief and the human experiences that unite us all.

Writing as Healing 

Beyond making a lasting impression on Ms. Thompson and earning an easy A in her class, the experience of writing this essay taught me so much. About grief, about growth, about connecting to others through vulnerability. Translating emotions and memories into words forces you to process and better understand them. Like carefully examining each artifact found amongst rubble and debris. Sorting through the painful shards allows you to rebuild better. That’s what this essay provided me – a way to sift through grief, find meaning, and rebuild after loss.

This essay also reminded me that openly sharing our stories, no matter how difficult, can inspire remarkable strength and empathy in others. Human experiences, no matter how profoundly unique, still contain universal threads that weave us together. Pull one, and we all feel the tug. This was certainly true with Ms. Thompson. My essay tugged at the grief embedded in her heart and compelled an emotional response. By generously giving my words and tears to readers, I can reciprocate the comfort I found in the shared stories of others.

The Power of Personal Writing The essay about my dad’s battle with cancer will always be one of my proudest achievements.  Technically well-constructed yet emotionally resonant, it exemplified my strengths as a writer. More importantly, though, it served as a cathartic vessel carrying my grief, a way to honor my dad’s life, and a piece inspiring empathy and understanding in others. The unexpectedly powerful reaction from my English teacher is something I will remember forever. Her tears watered the seeds of healing planted by this essay and cultivated emotional connections blossoming from difficult experiences. This taught me that courageously sharing our personal stories helps make the vast human experience feel less lonely. And that is something magical.

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The Essay The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry Ryan Harman

Introduction: Unveiling the Impact of Ryan Harman’s Essay

Ryan Harman’s essay stands out as a poignant testament to the transformative power of words. In this exploration, we delve into the emotional depth and literary prowess that rendered his writing so evocative, leaving an indelible mark on readers and educators alike.

Initial Impressions: The Emotional Resonance in Ryan Harman’s Writing

Upon encountering Harman’s essay, the raw emotional resonance is striking. Its initial impact was profound, stirring a range of emotions from sorrow to inspiration. The essay’s ability to evoke such sentiments from readers reveals Harman’s exceptional skill in weaving an emotional tapestry with his words.

Exploring the Writing Technique: The Power of Narrative and Emotion

Harman’s writing technique is a fusion of narrative mastery and emotional authenticity. His seamless integration of personal experiences with evocative storytelling captivates the reader’s attention from the onset.

Unpacking the Depth: Themes and Messages in Harman’s Essay

Reflective narration: the essay that made my english teacher cry ryan harman.

Harman’s adeptness in reflective narration allows readers to immerse themselves in his world, fostering a deep emotional connection through shared experiences.

Emotional Authenticity

The genuineness of Harman’s emotions transcends the written word, resonating profoundly and eliciting empathetic responses from readers.

Impactful Imagery

The skillful use of imagery in Harman’s essay paints vivid pictures, etching poignant scenes into the reader’s mind.

Impact on the Reader: Stirring Emotions and Creating Connection

Harman’s essay serves as an emotional catalyst, prompting readers to introspect, empathize, and relate to the shared human experiences portrayed within its pages.

Educational Significance: Lessons from Ryan Harman’s Writing

Harman’s essay holds invaluable lessons for aspiring writers and educators alike.

Craftsmanship in Writing

The craftsmanship exhibited by Harman underscores the importance of authenticity and emotional depth in writing, transcending technicalities.

Embracing Vulnerability

Harman’s willingness to embrace vulnerability in his writing serves as a compelling reminder of the power of genuine expression.

The Role of Empathy in Writing

The essay highlights the pivotal role empathy plays in forging a connection between the writer and the reader, fostering understanding and resonance.

Harman’s Approach and Impact: Insights from the Essay

Harman’s unique approach to storytelling and emotional expression leaves an enduring impact, serving as a guiding beacon for future writers.

Personal Growth and Transformation: Reader Responses to Harman’s Essay

The profound impact of Harman’s essay resonates in the personal growth and transformations experienced by readers, emphasizing the essay’s universal relatability.

The Essence of Effective Writing: Emotionally Charged vs. Technical Writing

Harman’s essay underscores the debate between emotionally charged writing and technically proficient content the essay that made my english teacher cry ryan harman , shedding light on the significance of emotional resonance in impactful writing.

Impact Beyond the Classroom: Harman’s Essay in Real Life Scenarios

The reverberations of Harman’s essay extend beyond the classroom, fostering discussions and prompting reflections in real-life situations, validating its enduring impact.

Conclusion: The Everlasting Impact of Ryan Harman’s Essay

Ryan Harman’s essay transcends its literary form, leaving an everlasting impression that resonates far beyond its pages. Its emotional depth, authenticity, and impactful storytelling redefine the essence of effective writing, forever etching its place in the annals of literary brilliance.

Shelly Campos is a dedicated press news story professional actively involved in shaping the narrative for AR News Journal. Through her storytelling prowess, Shelly brings a unique perspective to the news, contributing to the publication's mission of delivering informative and compelling stories to its audience.

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The Essay that Made My English Teacher Cry: A Heartfelt Essay Touches Millions

Ryan Harman is a TikTok maker. He has quickly acquired fame for sharing emotional images of a touching essay. It’s worth noting that her English teacher was surprised by her writing. The slideshow video has received over 5 Mn views in just 2 days. Therefore, it gained popularity in a short period. It also provoked a similar emotional reaction from the TikTok community. You can find it by searching the phrase ‘The Essay that Made My English Teacher Cry’ on the Internet.

The deep emotional composition of Ryan Harman relates the heartbreaking story of losing her mother to cancer. At that time her age was 18. The emotional impact of the essay by Ryan has been too much on people. It’s important to note that it brought tears to the eyes of those who saw it. Let’s discuss about ‘The Essay that Made My English Teacher Cry’ in detail:

The Essay that Made My English Teacher Cry: Ryan Harman

• The Essay that Made the Teacher Cry has sparked strong emotions in her English instructor. This incident happened in May 2022. It’s important to note that Ryan graduated from high school. During this time her mother was struggling with a year-long battle with cancer. Her diagnosis seemed to take a piece of her away every day. She symbolizes strength, resilience, and has the best attributes of a mother. She was an affectionate mother as per Ryan.
• Her mother gathered all her courage and decided to watch the historic wheelchair-assisted walk of Ryan across the graduation stage. This accomplishment was huge as her mother’s limited time away from home. Ryan went on a week-long beach trip with her closest friends after graduating. She sent a steady stream of text messages to her mother throughout the journey. It’s worth noting that it aided in keeping her informed of the unfolding drama & adventure stories.

Sudden Disappearance & Tragic Diagnosis

• Her mother’s responses to SMS & FaceTime chats abruptly disappeared. It leaves Ryan terrified. The incident resulted in the composition titled ‘The Essay That Made the English Teacher Cry.’ The father of Ryan informed her of the tragic turn of events upon her return home. They then made a solemn trek to the hospital, where they received heartbreaking news.
• Her spine collapsed by 75% due to the fast growth of tumors. She was then placed in hospice care & was confined to her bed indefinitely. A sense of incredulity gripped Ryan during the early days of hospice admittance of his mother. It seemed incomprehensible that he would lose his mother at the age of 18. All of this was represented in his heartfelt article.

Also Read: How to find the best essay writing service

Embracing Limited Time

The weeks that followed were methodically detailed. It emphasizes the value of their limited time together even as their inner world of Ryan fragmented into endless bits. The essay was received at its peak. It is when Ryan digs into the sad moment of the death of her mother.

Emotional Response: Reactions & Comments on TikTok:

• The teacher of Ryan started crying after reading the essay of Ryan. It has also aroused strong feelings among TikTok users. There’re a number of TikTok users who felt emotional. Moreover, there’re a number of people expressed their sympathies. It was expressed how pleased the mother of Ryan would be with her. The TikTok community has given so much support to Ryan. 
• There’re a number of people who’ve lost their parents and also reached out to support Ryan. Other people have provided their financial support to Ryan during tough time. There’re a number of people who have expressed their sympathies with ‘the essay that made my teacher cry.’ Others have also supported Ryan in that tough situation. ‘I cried so much. It is an emotional story,’ a person said on TikTok. Other TikTok users have also supported and reacted emotionally.

Conclusion:

‘The Essay that Made My English Teacher Cry’ also made the entire TikTok community emotional. This incidence shows and acts as a reminder of the importance of real connections. The emotional composition has exceeded the digital domain. The words of Ryan have resonated among the audience. The emotional support given by the TikTok community has helped Ryan so much. The viral phenomena also serve as a tribute to the ongoing strength of genuine feeling. The capacity for true empathy in the digital era was also visible by this incidence and it was inspirational.

What did Ryan’s English instructor cry about?

The English teacher was saddened by the emotional story of the essay. The direct emotion makes her cry. The essay by Ryan resonated among the audience due to the comparable situations. The emotional reaction of the teacher shows the ability of the written word by Ryan. It has aroused the true emotions in her teacher. 

Ryan Harman wrote the emotional article that has gone viral. It has received a lot of attention because of the emotional impact it had on her English teacher. The entire TikTok community felt an emotional connection with Ryan. The title was ‘The Essay that Made My English Teacher Cry.’

How was the impact of the essay on the internet?

The impact of the essay- ‘The Essay that Made My English Teacher Cry’ on the internet has been enormous. A number of people expressed their emotional reactions. The comments of online users have ranged from heartfelt admissions of crying to words of support. 

The essay struck a chord with the TikTok community. It is due to the accurately depicted loss. There’re a number of emotions that accompany such situations. The relatability of the story  of Ryan created a strong sense of connection among viewers. Especially among those who may have suffered similar circumstances.

What caused the essay to go viral?

The virality of the essay was due to the emotional nature of it. The appealing method of Ryan Harman shared his personal story. The article was posted on TikTok. It quickly received millions of views. It evokes an outpouring of empathy among viewers.

Read More: Studyfy: Your Essay Writing Savior

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Chronicles of Learnia

Journey with me through the wardrobe into the magical world of teaching...

Thursday, October 1, 2015

The things that make an english teacher cry (happy tears) , part 1.

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The Essay That Made My English Teacher Cry

Writing is a powerful tool, capable of evoking deep emotions and sparking meaningful connections. Often, we underestimate the impact our words can have on others. In this story, I will recount an unforgettable experience when I wrote an essay that brought tears to my English teacher’s eyes, leaving a lasting impression on both of us.

It was the middle of my junior year of high school, and our English class had just begun a unit on personal narrative essays. I had always enjoyed writing but had never truly poured my heart and soul into a piece. This assignment was different. Our teacher, Mrs. Williams, encouraged us to choose a topic that was close to our hearts, something personal and emotionally resonant. I decided to share a story that had been locked away in my heart for years, a story that I had never discussed with anyone.

The assignment was straightforward: write a personal narrative essay that focused on a significant event or moment in our lives. We were given a week to complete it, and I immediately knew what I wanted to write about. The event that had shaped me and my family, one that I had been too afraid to address, was the illness and passing of my younger sister, Emily, from leukemia when I was just ten years old.

As I sat down at my desk with my laptop open, I felt a wave of emotions wash over me. The memories of Emily’s struggle, the pain of her loss, and the lingering guilt of not being able to do more for her were all too vivid. But I knew that it was time to share this story and bring it to light, not just for the assignment but for my own healing.

The words flowed from my fingertips as I started to write. I vividly described the days we spent together in the hospital, the sound of her laughter, and the warmth of her smile. I shared the fear I felt as I watched her deteriorate, unable to do anything to help her. The pain in my chest grew as I recounted the day she left us, a day that left a void in our family that could never be filled.

Throughout the process of writing, I found myself crying at my own words. The emotions that I had suppressed for so long were finally being released onto the page. The writing was cathartic, and I knew that this essay would be more than just an assignment; it would be a tribute to my sister’s memory.

The day arrived when we had to turn in our essays. I printed out my essay, my hands trembling slightly as I placed it in Mrs. Williams’ inbox. She smiled warmly at me and said, “I’m looking forward to reading your essay. It takes courage to write about such personal experiences.”

The week that followed was a whirlwind of emotions. I was nervous, yet strangely hopeful, that my essay would be well-received. Little did I know just how profoundly it would impact my English teacher and, eventually, my classmates.

The day Mrs. Williams returned our essays, I eagerly flipped through my paper. In red ink, she had written comments and praise, but her final words struck a chord with me: “This is one of the most powerful essays I’ve ever read. It takes great courage to share such a personal story. Thank you for letting me into your world.”

Classmates who had finished reading their own essays exchanged glances as they heard Mrs. Williams’ words. There was a collective curiosity about my essay, and soon, the entire class wanted to read it. Mrs. Williams asked if I would be willing to share it with the class, and I agreed, albeit with some trepidation.

Standing at the front of the room, I began to read my essay aloud. The words that had been so difficult to write flowed from my mouth with surprising ease. As I shared the story of my sister, the room fell silent, and I noticed tears glistening in the eyes of my classmates. It was a surreal moment of connection as we all shared in the grief, pain, and, ultimately, the love that permeated my essay.

When I finished reading, the room erupted in applause. Mrs. Williams had tears in her eyes, and she wasn’t alone. My classmates, many of whom I had never spoken to before, approached me with hugs, shared stories of their own losses, and expressed their gratitude for my honesty. It was a powerful experience of vulnerability, compassion, and empathy, and it brought our class closer together in a way that I could never have imagined.

Over the next few weeks, my essay had a ripple effect in our school. Teachers from various departments requested permission to use it as a teaching tool for their classes, discussing not only the power of personal narrative but also the importance of empathy and understanding. It was even shared at a school assembly, where my essay touched the hearts of students and teachers alike.

The impact didn’t stop at the school’s boundaries. As my essay was shared online and through social media, it resonated with people far beyond our small town. I received messages from strangers who had read my essay and were moved to share their own stories of loss and healing. The experience of opening up about my sister’s illness and passing had created a chain reaction of support, understanding, and healing for others as well.

Mrs. Williams, my English teacher, played a pivotal role in all of this. Her guidance, support, and encouragement allowed me to find the courage to write my deeply personal essay. Her tears were a testament to the emotional impact of my words, and her decision to share it with the class changed the way we viewed writing and storytelling.

The essay that made my English teacher cry was more than just a school assignment. It was a testament to the power of vulnerability, storytelling, and the human capacity for empathy and understanding. It allowed me to honor the memory of my sister, connect with classmates in a profound way, and touch the lives of people far beyond my immediate circle. It taught me that our words have the potential to change lives, heal wounds, and bridge the gaps that often separate us. And, most importantly, it reinforced the idea that sometimes, the most courageous thing we can do is share our most personal stories with the world.

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Meg Dowell Writes

I didn’t learn how powerful my words could be until i accidentally made a teacher cry.

When I was a freshman in high school, one of our English assignments was to write a poem about whatever we wanted. So I wrote one about (as far as I can remember) how important it was to appreciate our teachers.

We read our poems aloud to the class. And when I read mine, my English teacher had a hard time composing himself for a second after I had finished.

It wasn’t at all my intention to make a grown man weep. I swear it wasn’t. I wasn’t thinking at all about how he would react to the words on that page. I just had an idea for a poem and wrote it and shared it with the room.

But maybe that was the problem — that I wrote something emotionally charged (in this case, in a positive way) and didn’t consider how my audience might respond to it.

Apparently I unintentionally wrote something that meant a lot to him that day. I don’t remember exactly what the poem said or the message it might have sent his way. But I do remember the very important lesson that experience taught me: Your words can affect people, whether you mean them to or not.

And yes, this applies in the negative sense as well. Words can hurt. We all know this, even if we don’t always consider it before speaking/tweeting/hitting send.

But right now I’m referring to the inspirational impact your words can have. The emotional connections they can make between people, or between your readers and yourself.

As writers, we spend a lot of time in our heads. And sometimes this means we don’t always see how the things we publish can influence the people around us in a positive way. But they can. I’ve been publishing a lot of stuff on Medium lately, and they’re literally just essays about my life, but it still surprises me when people highlight their favorite passages and thank me for being insightful and helping them see things in new ways.

I don’t ever really mean to do that. It just kind of happens, because I’m a human and humans are reading what I write and even though we don’t all experience the same things in the same ways, we all have the same emotions and we all understand certain feelings often portrayed in each others’ writing.

I’m not saying you should go out and try to make people cry. Like, why would you do that? But do keep in mind that your words really do matter. They have the potential to reach a lot farther and deeper than you often might expect them to. Be careful with them. But also don’t hesitate to, as much as you can, set them free.

When you actively choose to publish something, there is ALWAYS  a chance that someone will resonate with it. You’re willingly taking that risk, willingly serving as a potential channel through which someone receives a message they’ve really been needing to hear.

Is that a responsibility you can handle? Are you ready? Then dive in.

Meg is the creator of Novelty Revisions, dedicated to helping writers put their ideas into words. She is a staff writer with The Cheat Sheet, a freelance editor and writer, and a 10-time NaNoWriMo winner.  Follow Meg on Twitter  for tweets about writing, food and nerdy things.

Help Novelty Revisions become a more valuable resource for aspiring writers.   Join us on Patreon .

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I appreciate your thoughts. Indeed, our words have an impact. From my teaching days of the past, I learned that my actions and words made me a daily role model in the classroom. My blog carries a similar responsibility. I hope that something published on my blog will brighten someone’s day in some small way.

Reblogged this on Author Don Massenzio and commented: Check out this post from the Novelty Revisions blog where Meg Dowell tells us how she Didn’t Learn How Powerful her Words Could Be Until she Accidentally Made a Teacher Cry

Reblogged this on Where Genres Collide .

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Letter of Recommendation

What I’ve Learned From My Students’ College Essays

The genre is often maligned for being formulaic and melodramatic, but it’s more important than you think.

By Nell Freudenberger

Most high school seniors approach the college essay with dread. Either their upbringing hasn’t supplied them with several hundred words of adversity, or worse, they’re afraid that packaging the genuine trauma they’ve experienced is the only way to secure their future. The college counselor at the Brooklyn high school where I’m a writing tutor advises against trauma porn. “Keep it brief , ” she says, “and show how you rose above it.”

I started volunteering in New York City schools in my 20s, before I had kids of my own. At the time, I liked hanging out with teenagers, whom I sometimes had more interesting conversations with than I did my peers. Often I worked with students who spoke English as a second language or who used slang in their writing, and at first I was hung up on grammar. Should I correct any deviation from “standard English” to appeal to some Wizard of Oz behind the curtains of a college admissions office? Or should I encourage students to write the way they speak, in pursuit of an authentic voice, that most elusive of literary qualities?

In fact, I was missing the point. One of many lessons the students have taught me is to let the story dictate the voice of the essay. A few years ago, I worked with a boy who claimed to have nothing to write about. His life had been ordinary, he said; nothing had happened to him. I asked if he wanted to try writing about a family member, his favorite school subject, a summer job? He glanced at his phone, his posture and expression suggesting that he’d rather be anywhere but in front of a computer with me. “Hobbies?” I suggested, without much hope. He gave me a shy glance. “I like to box,” he said.

I’ve had this experience with reluctant writers again and again — when a topic clicks with a student, an essay can unfurl spontaneously. Of course the primary goal of a college essay is to help its author get an education that leads to a career. Changes in testing policies and financial aid have made applying to college more confusing than ever, but essays have remained basically the same. I would argue that they’re much more than an onerous task or rote exercise, and that unlike standardized tests they are infinitely variable and sometimes beautiful. College essays also provide an opportunity to learn precision, clarity and the process of working toward the truth through multiple revisions.

When a topic clicks with a student, an essay can unfurl spontaneously.

Even if writing doesn’t end up being fundamental to their future professions, students learn to choose language carefully and to be suspicious of the first words that come to mind. Especially now, as college students shoulder so much of the country’s ethical responsibility for war with their protest movement, essay writing teaches prospective students an increasingly urgent lesson: that choosing their own words over ready-made phrases is the only reliable way to ensure they’re thinking for themselves.

Teenagers are ideal writers for several reasons. They’re usually free of preconceptions about writing, and they tend not to use self-consciously ‘‘literary’’ language. They’re allergic to hypocrisy and are generally unfiltered: They overshare, ask personal questions and call you out for microaggressions as well as less egregious (but still mortifying) verbal errors, such as referring to weed as ‘‘pot.’’ Most important, they have yet to put down their best stories in a finished form.

I can imagine an essay taking a risk and distinguishing itself formally — a poem or a one-act play — but most kids use a more straightforward model: a hook followed by a narrative built around “small moments” that lead to a concluding lesson or aspiration for the future. I never get tired of working with students on these essays because each one is different, and the short, rigid form sometimes makes an emotional story even more powerful. Before I read Javier Zamora’s wrenching “Solito,” I worked with a student who had been transported by a coyote into the U.S. and was reunited with his mother in the parking lot of a big-box store. I don’t remember whether this essay focused on specific skills or coping mechanisms that he gained from his ordeal. I remember only the bliss of the parent-and-child reunion in that uninspiring setting. If I were making a case to an admissions officer, I would suggest that simply being able to convey that experience demonstrates the kind of resilience that any college should admire.

The essays that have stayed with me over the years don’t follow a pattern. There are some narratives on very predictable topics — living up to the expectations of immigrant parents, or suffering from depression in 2020 — that are moving because of the attention with which the student describes the experience. One girl determined to become an engineer while watching her father build furniture from scraps after work; a boy, grieving for his mother during lockdown, began taking pictures of the sky.

If, as Lorrie Moore said, “a short story is a love affair; a novel is a marriage,” what is a college essay? Every once in a while I sit down next to a student and start reading, and I have to suppress my excitement, because there on the Google Doc in front of me is a real writer’s voice. One of the first students I ever worked with wrote about falling in love with another girl in dance class, the absolute magic of watching her move and the terror in the conflict between her feelings and the instruction of her religious middle school. She made me think that college essays are less like love than limerence: one-sided, obsessive, idiosyncratic but profound, the first draft of the most personal story their writers will ever tell.

Nell Freudenberger’s novel “The Limits” was published by Knopf last month. She volunteers through the PEN America Writers in the Schools program.