If you are in the preplanning stages of writing, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to set up opportunities that could help you. So often, clients engage in courses, mission trips, clubs, or other experiences without creating the right mindset. As an educational consultant, I coach students on how that mindset can later establish topics for common application essay prompts.
Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mary Reid Munford, The Traveling School Admissions Coordinator, who discussed the benefits of studying abroad and gave insight into opportunities for experiences within programs like The Traveling School. Our conversation reminded me that students often seek exciting opportunities without thinking about how to engage and fully immerse in their adventure so they can come home and write about their journey. Now, you don't have to leave your home school and explore the world to take the following action step in writing! However, no matter what you decide to do outside of the classroom, it helps to go into that experience and think about the following questions:
Why am I interested in pursuing this opportunity, and what do I want to learn from the experience?
What obstacles might I encounter, and will I be able to be successful in the opportunity?
How does the opportunity align with my values or beliefs?
How will I personally grow from this experience? Will this experience shape my character or allow me a chance to develop further?
How will I have a positive impact on others through this experience?
The above questions will help students think about their choices and prepare them for their application phase without putting too much pressure on the activity. And if you have already had an incredible experience, it is a great time to review that experience and answer the questions above. You might find the perfect story to tell! If you are interested in learning more about The Traveling School, listen to our conversation here.