Sample Essays on “Who Am I?” How to guide, with Outlines

Published by gudwriter on November 23, 2017 November 23, 2017

How to Write an Essay About Yourself

Many students, from high school to college level, do not know how to describe themselves. They mix up ideas as they do not really know what they need to include in their writing. The main aim of a who am I essay is to make the reader understand who you are and what you believe in. Remember, the essay doesn’t have to be always about the positive side- you can include your weak points as well in a creative way. You can also write about what makes you unique (unique skills, character, etc). If you need help, college admission essay writing services is available to assist you.

Elevate Your Writing with Our Free Writing Tools!

Did you know that we provide a free essay and speech generator, plagiarism checker, summarizer, paraphraser, and other writing tools for free?

Striking the balance makes your essay realistic and convincing.

Character : What are your character traits? Which habits define you?

Values : What is your value system? Here, you need to include things that inspire you. It is here that you state your beliefs, motivations, principles, and inspirations. The reader expects you to have either staunch stands on certain things and this is the part where you make them know. Do not highlight radical points, though.

Skills : What aptitudes do you have? And, what is the level in each skill? This may include communication, computer, education, languages, leadership, or anything else you find worthy.

Achievements :

Life experiences that influenced your life

Perhaps you would like to read an essay sample on what makes you unique ?

Who Am I Essay Example 1 Outline

Below is a layout you should follow when writing a personal essay to impress your professor.

  • Hook – The Question – who am I?
  • Brief summary: Well, I know quite much about myself: I am a social, kind, respectful, and principled young man.
  • Thesis : I am a kind, friendly, respectful, and principled young person.
  • Point : Social
  • Illustration : Meeting new friends
  • Logic : Makes me dynamic
  • Thesis relation: A cheerful, social and accommodative person is how many people know me.
  • Point : Respectful and law abiding
  • Illustration : Want to get along with everyone- both juniors and seniors. Car seats, polite character
  • Explanation : I know the limits
  • Thesis relation : Every day, I want to be known as a person who is respectful even to those who least deserve it.
  • Point : Hobbies
  • Illustrations : Sports, chess, music
  • Explanation : Clear my mind, get healthier.
  • Thesis relation : Sportsmanship has taught me to be fair other people, diligent and focused.
  • Point : I am not perfect- when I don’t hit my targets, obvious opposition from people who don’t love progress. My love for novelty makes me uncomfortable with normal rules.
  • Illustrations : My mum says I am selfish and that I always want everything to go my way. Yet, I’m still the person you will find in doing voluntary community work to help people.
  • Explanation : I guess my self-esteem is too high for people to put down. This rubs feathers with people who stand my path to success.
  • Thesis relation : I’d be a liar to say I am a genius, flawless or immortal- and that’s who I am.
  • Restatement of thesis
  • Summary of essay
  • Signing out

Easily create engaging speeches that will express yourself confidently and fluently, all thanks to our innovative free speech writer generator .

Who Am I Essay Example 1

Who am I? Describing oneself is one of the most complicated tasks. In most cases, we always define ourselves using institutions, other people, or activities. Well, I know quite much about myself: I am a kind, friendly, respectful, and principled young person.

First, I am a sociable person. I love to meet people and make new friends. It’s not that I am an extrovert. However, I always work towards getting along with people. Of course, there are times I enjoy being alone for meditation . However, being around people makes me feel comfortable. I like to utilize every chance I get to make new friends. Interacting with people from different parts of the world makes me a diverse person. I am one of those people who believe that there is richness in human diversity. I am not quite selective of who I socialize with. A cheerful, cordial, and accommodative person is how many people know me.

Second, I am kind and respectful. Well, I appreciate that there is a thin line between being social and respectful. I want to treat everyone – junior or senior- with utmost reverence. In this regard, I am quite a listener. This didn’t start yesterday- I have always loved to give up my seats to elders in the train since I was young. Again, I am firm and at the same time polite. I love to make my points in a way that won’t hurt those around me. I always desire to be respectful even to those who least deserve it. Being respectful does not subtract anything from me after all.

Third, I have a great affection to team play. Well, I probably got this trait from my life as a sportsperson. I have been a school captain in Team Handball and Badminton. Today, I still participate in these games as a coach. I’m adherent to chess and I could become a grandmaster in the next few months. Sports and competitions have trained me to be fair, diligent, hardworking, and focused. As my hobby, chess clears my mind while athletics make me healthy. I’d definitely not tell who I am without mentioning sportsmanship. Actually, sports largely define me.

I am not perfect, though. I can be moody when I don’t hit my targets. My love for novelty makes me uncomfortable with normal rules. My mum says I am selfish and that I always want everything to go my way. Yet, I’m still the person you will find doing voluntary community work to help people. I guess my self-esteem is too high for people to put down. This rubs feathers with anyone who stands on the path to success. I’d be a liar if I said that I am a genius, flawless or immortal- and that’s who I am.

Anyway, it may be a little difficult to explain who I am. However, there are qualities that are an outright depiction of me. Respect, principles, sportsmanship, and leadership are some of them. As a quick learner, I love to change every behavior that doesn’t make me a better person. The desire to be good to everybody has made me who I am today and I intend to keep it that way.

Personal Essay Example 2 Outline

Introduction.

I give a description of myself in relation to my family background, personality, and how I view life.

Paragraph 1:

Family background

  • Revolves around strong Christian faith since my parents are staunch Roman Catholic faithful
  • I was born in Chicago, Illinois 21 years ago and I am the third born in a family of four children.
  • I am a female of African American origin and I am very proud of my cultural background and family values

Paragraph 2:

My personality

  • I am outspoken and like socializing and making new friends
  • I value respect and believe it is two way
  • I am hard working

Paragraph 3:

My view of life

  • All humans are equal regardless of their cultural, racial and religious backgrounds as well as gender
  • I am liberal in that I am open to learning new things such as new cultures, religions, and even languages
  • Divergent views should be tolerated

I can summarize myself as someone who is respectful, accommodating, and open minded. I appreciate that as a human, I need others for my life to be complete. I believe my personality and world views are matching and thus I find life more sociable and interesting.

Personal Essay Example 2

My family background revolves around strong Christian faith since my parents are staunch Roman Catholic faithful. I was born in Chicago, Illinois 21 years ago and I am the third born in a family of four children. I am a female of African-American origin and I am very proud of my cultural background and family values. Like my parents, I have developed the habit and routine of going to church every Sunday in line with Christian doctrines. As a matter of fact, all the members of my family value attending Sunday masses wherever they may find themselves. I grew up in a working-parents family and I have grown to live in harmony with my siblings.

Regarding my personality, I am one person who is outspoken and likes socializing and making new friends. The number of friends I have in college is uncountable because I have no boundaries when it comes to building relationships. That notwithstanding, I value respect and believe it is two way. I expect that anybody I interact with should show me the same level of respect I show them irrespective of their background or status in the society. I am hard working because my parents taught me to loathe laziness since it is the beginning of poverty and miserable life. To me, respect and hard work go hand in hand. Working hard respectfully has opened many doors for me so far in my life.

My view of life is that all humans are equal regardless of their cultural, racial, and religious backgrounds as well as gender. This is why I have friends whose cultural and other backgrounds are diverse. I am also liberal in that I am open to learning new things such as new cultures, religions, and even languages. For instance, I can speak fluent French and Spanish yet I am American. I also believe that divergent views should be tolerated because this is part of enhancing human diversity. My parents had once tried to stop me from being too open minded but I persisted with it. Being open to new things, in my view, amounts to being accommodative to human diversity.

In conclusion, I can summarize myself as someone who is respectful, accommodative, and open minded. I appreciate that as a human, I need others for my life to be complete. When I show that I care for and accommodate different views, I find it easy working with others. I have thus managed to evade suffering any form of racial or cultural profiling because people find me easy to deal with. I believe my personality and world views are matching and thus I find life more sociable and interesting. It is my intention to continue leading this fulfilling life.

Ready to pay to write essay ? We offer a legit service that thousands of students are making use of everyday. Let us do the hard work so you can have some much deserved fun. Order now and receive a quality paper on time.

Personal Essay Sample 3 Outline

I am a faithful Christian who is open-minded, friendly, and action-oriented.

Paragraph1:

In spite of being a staunch Christian, I am open to other people’s ways of worship and generally to other people’s way of life and opinions.

  • I can listen to and understand what other people say and treat it as their opinion to which they are entitled whether or not I agree with it.
  • I am able to live amongst people of various cultures.
  • However, I do not let other people’s views or cultures affect my own.

I am a friendly person who highly values friendship.

  • I have the habit of forming strong friendships both in our neighborhood and at school.
  • I have quite a number of friends from various backgrounds because I do not choose friends based on their cultural backgrounds.
  • I believe in genuine friendship and as soon as I detect that one is not a true friend, I drop them.

I follow my decisions and promises with actions as I believe that it is through actions that one can solve their problems and meet their life goals.

  • I keep to my decisions once I make them.
  • I have been able to accomplish many of my life’s endeavors especially in my academic life.
  • I also know that keeping promises is one of the best ways of keeping relationships alive and healthy.
  • I normally do all it takes to keep a promise irrespective of who I make it to.

I am an open-minded Christian who values relationships and I act on my decisions and promises. I am accommodative to diverse views and opinions even when they sharply contrast with mine. I pursue my life goals and keep relationships through action.

Personal Essay Sample 3

As a person, I feel growing over the years has significantly changed who I am. I have had to see and experience many things that I did not get to see in my childhood. I have also met many different people and visited many places. Some of the perspectives I held about people and certain things have certainly changed. In addition, I have undergone significant personal growth which has seen my personality transform as well. I have also become more decisive in my actions and in my relationships with others. I am a faithful Christian who is open-minded, friendly, and action-oriented.

In spite of being a staunch Christian, I am open to other people’s ways of worship and generally to other people’s way of life and opinions. I can listen to and understand what other people say and treat it as their opinion to which they are entitled whether or not I agree with it. This way, I have been able to learn a lot from others and widen my view of life and humanity. I am also able to live amongst people of various cultures. However, I do not let other people’s views or cultures affect my own as much as I may be accommodative to them. This is because I believe that the world has enough space for everyone to practice their own cultures and share their opinions without interfering with others.

I am also a friendly person who highly values friendship. From my childhood, I developed the habit of forming strong friendships both in our neighborhood and at school. I have carried this habit to my adulthood and I have quite a number of friends from various backgrounds because I do not choose friends based on their cultural backgrounds. However, I believe in genuine friendship and as soon as I detect that one is not a true friend, I drop them. To me, a friend should be like family that is always there for one in their better and tough days and moments. Out of this belief, I have helped a number of friends both in and out of school and shared with them some of my innermost secrets. I too have benefited from the loyalty of these friendships.

Further, I follow my decisions and promises with actions as I believe that it is through actions that one can solve their problems and meet their life goals. This virtue has helped me accomplish many of my life’s endeavors especially in my academic life. For example, since my middle school level, I decided that I would not consume television content during examination periods but maximally concentrate on the exams. I have kept to this decision and have thus posted good grades all through because I always have enough time to prepare for exams. I also know that keeping promises is one of the best ways of keeping relationships alive and healthy. I normally do all it takes to keep a promise irrespective of who I make it to. I do keep even as simple a promise as that of sharpening my younger sister’s drawing pencil every morning before she goes to school.

I am an open-minded Christian who values relationships and I act on my decisions and promises. I am accommodative to diverse views and opinions even when they sharply contrast with mine. I pursue my life goals and keep relationships through action. I also have many friends since I believe that genuine friendship is highly beneficial to humans. This personality and values enable me to live a fulfilling life as I am capable of accomplishing my goals and at the same time live harmoniously with others.

Don’t spend hours on the same essay again and again whereas you can us an essay maker tool that will help you create a unique and plagiarism-free essay.

Gudwriter Custom Papers

Special offer! Get 20% discount on your first order. Promo code: SAVE20

Related Posts

Free essays and research papers, artificial intelligence argumentative essay – with outline.

Artificial Intelligence Argumentative Essay Outline In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the rapidly developing fields and as its capabilities continue to expand, its potential impact on society has become a topic Read more…

Synthesis Essay Example – With Outline

The goal of a synthesis paper is to show that you can handle in-depth research, dissect complex ideas, and present the arguments. Most college or university students have a hard time writing a synthesis essay, Read more…

spatial order example

Examples of Spatial Order – With Outline

A spatial order is an organizational style that helps in the presentation of ideas or things as is in their locations. Most students struggle to understand the meaning of spatial order in writing and have Read more…

Who Am I Essay: Writing Tips and Sample

Your “Who am I?” essay is a paper where you describe yourself as a person. Mention what inspires and motivates you, what you love and don’t love, your goals and wishes, etc.

In this article, you’ll learn how to write this personal essay. (And please don’t miss a ready-made example to understand what to describe in your work!)

How to Write a “Who Am I” Essay

You’re that person who knows you best, but writing about yourself is still challenging:

You read a writing prompt for a college application or scholarship , and you aren’t sure if you understand it in detail. How do you know what exactly to mention in your essay? You can’t find words to describe your nature and skills. How do you know if that particular accomplishment or story from your life is worth including?

Stick with us here for practical tips on writing a “Who Am I” essay, with a free template to follow.

How to start?

Ask any writer, and they will tell you that the hardest part of the writing process is to start it. It’s a kind of writer’s block when you stare at a blank screen and don’t know what to write. Below are several ideas that can help you craft a compelling essay about yourself:

  • Think about one sentence that would describe you best. (A technique some authors use for inspiration: Answer the question, “What would friends write on your grave?” or “What do you want the world to remember about you?” You can start an essay with that phrase.
  • In the introduction, describe yourself in general . (Be truthful and honest.)
  • Discuss one or two of your hobbies. (Choose those you’re most passionate about, those influencing your mood — and maybe your skills — most.)
  •   Highlight your achievements but don’t boast. ( Be reflective by analyzing and evaluating what you’ve achieved.)
  • Add some personality to the essay. (Tell anecdotes, include examples, and be creative to keep readers engaged with your story.)

who-am-i-essay

Short Essay About “Who I Am” Sample

You’re welcome to use the below template from our professional writer for crafting your future “Who am I” essays. Here it goes:

Actionable Tips to Improve Your Paper

Ready to start writing? Consider these helpful tips on crafting a person essay about who I am:

1) Understand your audience

Who will read your essay? Is it a college admission officer who knows nothing about you? Or, maybe it’s your school teacher with some background of who you are? Do you plan to publish your reflection for your social media followers or blog readers?

Depending on the audience, your story may change. Add details about what interests your readers: What would they want to know? Understanding your readers will make your essay more compelling (1). It will be easier for you to engage them and make them emotionally connected to your story.

2) Don’t be afraid to look vulnerable

Allow the readers to see your inner feelings. Sincerity and reflection are the new black, you know. It’s okay to speak about your strengths, weaknesses, or worries to the audience. That’s what differentiates you from other people, thus making you an individual.

Here’s the big secret:

Admission committees appreciate students’ understanding of their weaknesses and areas to grow. Communicate the willingness to change and grow. You’re just a human, after all.

Write about what you want to develop in yourself. Or, tell about life experiences that have changed or influenced you most.

3) Proofread and edit your essay

Once your essay is ready, it’s time to proofread and edit it. Here’s a short checklist of the details to fix if any:

  • Grammar and punctuation mistakes (verb tenses, sentence structure)
  • Spelling errors and inconsistencies in names or terms
  • Incorrect capitalization
  • No logical flow or transitions between paragraphs
  • Excessive wordiness and repetition
  • Biased language
  • Too much passive voice and redundant adverbs
  • Too sophisticated words and phrases that have simpler alternatives

That’s It: Your “Who Am I” Essay Is Ready

In this blog post, we tried to cover all the core details of personal essay writing. Now you know how to start it, what elements to include, and how to craft it for better readability and emotional connection with the audience.

We hope our 500-word essay example will help you write your perfect story about yourself. If you still have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask our professional writers for help.

References:

  • https://summer.harvard.edu/blog/12-strategies-to-writing-the-perfect-college-essay/
  • Essay samples
  • Essay writing
  • Writing tips

Recent Posts

  • Writing the “Why Should Abortion Be Made Legal” Essay: Sample and Tips
  • 3 Examples of Enduring Issue Essays to Write Yours Like a Pro
  • Writing Essay on Friendship: 3 Samples to Get Inspired
  • How to Structure a Leadership Essay (Samples to Consider)
  • What Is Nursing Essay, and How to Write It Like a Pro

How to Write a “Who Am I” Essay: Free Tips With Examples

  • 11 December 2023
  • 16 min read

Essay writing is an exciting and challenging academic activity that helps students to develop essential writing skills, such as creative thinking, reflective, and analytical skills. When writing an essay on the topic “Who Am I,” students should understand what is required of them before writing a paper. Ideally, educational departments and tutors provide instructions that dictate the approach that students should take when writing academic texts. In principle, a “Who Am I” essay should reflect the first-person language because this prompt requires learners to tell the audience about themselves. In this respect, writers can use narrative, philosophical, college application, or autobiographical approaches in writing a paper. Hence, learners need to understand how to write a “Who Am I” essay to provide high-quality papers and achieve desired outcomes.

General Guidelines for Writing a “Who I Am” Essay

Essay writing is an academic activity that exposes students to conventions of formal writing and enhances their critical thinking, analytical, and reflective skills. Although there are different types of essays , there are no significant differences in essay structure , essay outline , and applicable academic writing rules. Basically, the only areas where essays seem to be different are essay topics and their content. For example, an argumentative essay advances the writer’s perspective on an issue, while a narrative essay provides the author’s life story. In the former, students intend to persuade the audience by considering specific arguments, and, in the latter, they inform readers about personal experiences with life lessons. Therefore, in writing an essay on the topic “Who Am I,” writers should first understand what is required of them. Ideally, this type of essay asks authors to talk about themselves.

how to write a who am i essay

Differences Between a “Who Am I” Essay and Other Papers

In principle, essays that ask writers to talk about themselves tend to be different from standard formal papers. Basically, one point of difference is that students have to use the first-person language, which is discouraged in formal writing. By considering that a “Who Am I” essay requires learners to talk about themselves, such a paper takes several forms. For example, these structures include formats of narrative, philosophical, college application, and autobiographical papers. Although an essay topic is in a question form, it does not necessarily mean that writers are unsure about themself. In turn, such a format means that they intend to answer this question in a paper by following a particular way to the audience’s benefit.

1. Narrative Format

A narrative essay is one where the writer’s focus is to provide the audience with a life story. Basically, this life story can take many forms, including personal or family experiences. In short, a “Who Am I” essay in a narrative format utilizes personal anecdotes as a means of communication. Moreover, one of the strategies for writing these essays is adopting a “show, not tell” strategy, which means using vivid descriptions rather than informative statements. Therefore, a narrative essay on the topic “Who Am I” should focus on the writer’s personal experiences that help the audience to understand an author. Since a topic is a question, one expectation is that students use personal anecdotes to provide an answer that benefits the audience more than them. When it comes to grading, what matters the most is whether writers have used narratives to educate the audience about who they are.

2. Philosophical Format

Philosophy is a discipline that focuses on unraveling the mysteries of life and nature. As such, a philosophical essay is one in which students engage the audience in a topic of discovery. In this case, one can argue that the essay’s type is informative. Since the topic “Who Am I” denotes an aspect of an investigation, learners who use a philosophical approach focus on telling the audience things about themselves that advance an understanding of human nature. On expectations, the essay’s content should not dwell on the writer’s demographical background or personal experiences but on who an author is in the context of human nature and its strengths and weaknesses. When it comes to grading, what matters is whether writers have applied a philosophical lens to describe themselves. In turn, a good example is unraveling what makes them strong, vulnerable, or weak.

3. College Application Format

College or university application is a type of essay that potential students write to the admissions board or committee of their choice institution. Basically, a “Who Am I” essay for colleges aims to convince and persuade the board or committee that applicants have all that it takes to be a student. To achieve this goal, learners provide essential details that are likely to advance their courses. For example, these details include personal attributes, academic performance (grades), work experiences, and future aspirations. Therefore, the expectation of a college application essay on the topic “Who Am I” is that it should inform the audience what makes writers outstanding and appropriate students for a higher learning admission. When it comes to grading, what matters the most is whether writers have emphatically made a case to college boards of why they are the best candidates for admission.

4. Autobiographical Format

By definition, an autobiography is a life story that captures the subject’s entire life. However, since it is hardly possible to write an individual’s life story – every detail about themselves since they were born – writers focus on what is relevant at any one given time. Therefore, when writing an autobiographical essay on the topic “Who Am I,” the expectation is that students provide details about themselves that help the audience to understand them better. For example, such details include their family lineage, demographical (race, ethnicity, gender, language, and nationality) background, academic credentials, and professional accomplishments. In this case, indicating one’s marital status and life’s philosophy are also crucial details in such an essay. On grading, the thing that matters the most is whether authors have offered a wholesome picture of who they are, from childhood to a present moment.

Essay Structures for “Who Am I” Papers

Academic writing standards require students and researchers to adopt a structure and an outline appropriate for their text when writing any academic paper . Typically, essays assume a three-component structure of introduction, main text (body), and conclusion. Also, when writing an essay on the topic “Who Am I” in narrative, philosophical, college application, or autobiographical forms, a student must use a structure that is appropriate for that paper. Besides a structure and an outline, there are other features that students must consider when writing a “Who Am I” essay in one of the formats.

1. Narrative Outline Format for a “Who Am I” Essay

When writing a narrative essay on the theme “Who Am I,” a student must follow an outline below:

I. Introduction

  • Topic introduction (Significance of a topic).
  • Thesis statement .

II. Body Paragraph(s)

  • Setting or background of an event.
  • People involved.
  • Short anecdote.

III. Conclusion

  • Lesson learned

Essential features. Students must address all the critical features in a “Who Am I” essay as applicable in these three sections. In the introduction, learners must briefly introduce themselves and clearly state a thesis of their papers. In the paper’s body, writers must use several paragraphs to tell the audience about themselves. Since the communication should be in a story form, authors can use each paragraph to tell a personal anecdote that enables the audience to understand them better. Besides, one of the features that writers must capture in the paper’s body is a “show, not tell” method, being an aspect of providing vivid details or descriptions. In turn, the most significant features that students should capture in the conclusion section are a restatement of a thesis sentence and a lesson learned. Also, the audience must see this lesson as a moral of a narrative story.

2. Philosophical Outline Format for a “Who Am I” Essay

When writing a philosophical essay on the theme “Who Am I,” students should follow an outline format below:

  • Thesis statement (The question that a writer intends to answer).
  • Clarification of this question.
  • A reason why this question is critical.
  • Answer a question through a topic sentence in one or several paragraphs.
  • Qualify and defend a thesis in one or several paragraphs.
  • Thesis restatement
  • Summary of the main point(s) in the body paragraph(s)

Essential features. In each of the three sections, learners must address crucial elements. Firstly, the introduction must be opened with a thesis statement that introduces a question that an author seeks to answer. Basically, learners should make the audience understand a question and explain its importance to them (writers) and the audience. Then, students can use one or more paragraphs in the body section, depending on their paper’s length. In the case of a one-page paper, there should be only one paragraph that opens with a topic sentence. In turn, this sentence should answer a question that forms the essay’s theme. Moreover, learners need to qualify and defend their thesis. In the conclusion section, writers must restate a thesis and summarize the main points.

3. College Application Outline Format for a “Who Am I” Essay

When writing a college application essay on the theme “Who Am I,” students must follow an outline that helps accomplish their objective- convince the admission committee that they are the best candidates among many applicants. Hence, such an outline should be as follows:

  • Thesis statement.
  • First supporting idea.
  • Second supporting idea.
  • Third supporting idea.
  • Restate a thesis.
  • Reflect on the main ideas.
  • Closing remark.

Essential features. When writing the introduction for a “Who Am I” essay in a college application format, students should provide a hook to grab the attention of the audience. For example, this aspect should be an interesting fact or a quote from a famous personality. Then, another essential feature is contextualizing an essay by stating the purpose of writing concisely. Basically, this statement is what should be a thesis of such a paper. In the main body, learners should use body paragraphs, each introducing a critical idea. However, if a “Who Am I” essay is a one-page document, authors should write specific ideas in a single body paragraph. Also, these ideas are what help writers to strengthen their cases before the admission committee. In turn, such elements can be personal attributes, academic performance, or work experiences. In the conclusion section, learners need to restate a thesis and reflect on the main ideas, closing with a remark that impresses the audience.

4. Autobiographical Outline Format for a “Who Am I” Essay

When writing an autobiographical essay on the theme “Who Am I,” students should follow an outline below:

  • Introduce yourself to the audience.
  • Early years.
  • Future plans.
  • Restate a thesis statement.
  • Tie up all the experiences.

Essential features. Essential elements that students must address in the introduction of a “Who Am I” essay by following an autobiographical format are a hook that grabs the readers’ attention, a brief self-introduction, and a thesis statement. In this case, writers should use several body paragraphs in such a paper. However, if an essay is a one-page document, authors should use one body paragraph. Moreover, components of a body paragraph should be details about the writer’s life, such as childhood, early education, cultural orientation, and aspirations. In the conclusion section, learners need to restate a thesis and tie up all the details about their life addressed in the main text.

Effective Writing Strategies

When writing a “Who Am I” essay in different formats, students should use strategies that guarantee a high-quality product. For example, the first strategy is utilizing transitions to create a natural and logical flow from one paragraph to the next or section to section. In this case, common transitions are “therefore,” “additionally,” “put differently,” “hence,” “thus,” and “however.” Then, another strategy is subjecting an essay to a peer review. Here, writers give the first draft to a friend, tutor, or mentor to read and identify errors and mistakes. Also, if there are any mistakes, students revise and edit their papers to eliminate them. In turn, another strategy is proofreading the final draft to ensure that mistakes are not made during typing, or writers must revise and edit it accordingly.

Example of a Narrative Essay: Who Am I?

I. introduction sample.

Adults say that adolescence is a period of development full of dramatic episodes. For me, it is a stage that saw my childhood friends become a significant influence on my worldview. The topic “Who Am I” focuses on investigating aspects of my life that define how I see myself and how others see me. As such, I can say that I am an individual who loathes social gatherings but is always willing to let my friends push me out of my comfort zone.

II. Example of a Body

For me, friendships are not only social relationships but concepts that define how I view and relate to the world. Since when I was a child, I have never been a person who loves social gatherings. I get irritated quickly when people try to dictate what I should be doing or saying at any particular moment. For example, on one occasion, I caused a violent commotion when a friend tried to make me dance with a stranger in a nightclub. However, life is not that easy. We cannot avoid social interactions. For this reason, I have a few friends who are also introverts but who are willing to push themselves to the edge. As a result, they always come up with plans to take themselves outdoors to, at least, interact with others as human beings.

III. Conclusion Sample

When I look at my life, I can confidently say that I rarely interact with people. However, I always let my friends push me from my comfort zone. In turn, what I have learned so far in life is that close friends fundamentally and significantly influence how individuals see the world around them.

Example of a Philosophical Essay: Who Am I?

Although I am an insignificant player in the theatre of life, I hope to become an influential person one day. Basically, the question “Who Am I” underscores the fact that human nature is complicated, and it takes an entire lifetime for individuals to understand themselves fully. In particular, the essence of this question is that, despite sharing humanity’s title, people from all walks of life express themselves in diverse ways.

On the question “Who Am I,” I can confidently say that I am an individual in the process of “becoming.” For example, when it comes to talking about human beings and the world, the discourse that attracts a significant audience is a discussion about men and women who have made a mark in the world. Moreover, these aspects include war heroes, successful businesspersons, influential political leaders, and controversial personalities. In this case, my contribution to the world stage can only be defined as insignificant. Nonetheless, I do not allow this reality to define my self-concept. I believe that “human life is a journey of a thousand miles,” and even those that we celebrate today are once insignificant personalities. Besides, I believe that a secret is to remain focused on what one desires to be in the coming future. In turn, I have a habit of volunteering in healthcare settings because I would love to become a nurse after college.

Life is like a river that can carry an individual to familiar or strange destinations. In my case, I am hopeful that it will relocate me from a place of insignificance to a place of significance. For this reason, I always remain cheerful, optimistic, and hopeful, and, one day, I will be influential like those we celebrate today.

Example of a College Application Essay: Who Am I?

Ever since I was a child, I have always loved to visit hospitals and other healthcare settings. Also, I believe this is why I love sciences and why I have always performed remarkably well in these subjects. In turn, my present application is an effort toward a realization of my dream to become a healthcare professional.

My healthcare career journey started when I was a child, and all along, I have maintained this pursuit. When you look at my GPA, I have performed remarkably well in sciences, which, I believe, makes a perfect case for a healthcare career. Besides education, I have had opportunities to work closely with medical personnel in diverse settings, including first-aid simulations in community healthcare centers. Moreover, I have volunteered in local hospitals, experiences that I consider to have shaped my perspectives on patient care significantly. In this case, I believe that you should consider my application because I am a self-driven individual who always looks for opportunities in challenges. Hence, my admission into a Bachelor of Nursing Degree will orient me to nuisances of healthcare delivery. With such knowledge, my dream to become a healthcare professional would be within reach. 

Applying for a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing is an effort to realize my lifelong dream of becoming a healthcare professional. As you consider my application, I implore you to consider the far I have come in preparation for this career. Thus, given an opportunity to study a program in your college, I will learn to become an effective healthcare professional.

Example of an Autobiographical Essay: Who Am I?

People say that the only way to know an individual is to know a personal heritage. As an African American, I take pride in being part of a race, being so rich in culture, and one that leans on traditions. Talking about “Who Am I,” I can confidently say that I am a child of a world that takes pride in cultural heritage.

I was born about three decades ago in a town famous for its natural beauty. As a whole, the State of Virginia is more rural than urban. Basically, this characteristic has played a significant role in defining my naturalist tendencies. Also, I am a lover of nature. For example, I habitually take walks every evening just to see nature – trees, birds, and butterflies. About education and career, I attended an Ivy League college and have built a career as a legal practitioner. In my family, I have three siblings – one sister and two brothers. In turn, I am yet to marry as my career seems to take all of my time. What I prize the most is the fact that I am an African American young adult with a promising career in a world that seems intolerant to successful individuals of African heritage.

Being a successful African American in a world that seems to prejudice successful people of African heritage is a blessing to me. When I look at my life journey, I can only say that my cultural heritage is among the things I prize the most.

Defining Characteristics of a “Who Am I” Essay

A thesis statement appears in the introduction section of a “Who Am I” essay, thus setting the entire paper’s tone and theme. What follows is a body paragraph that opens with a topic sentence. Moreover, the body paragraph’s content revolves around a topic sentence that advances the essay’s central idea. Then, one of the defining characteristics of examples of “Who Am I” essays for different formats is the use of the first-person language. Basically, this aspect helps writers to “show, not tell.” Also, this aspect is evident in the body paragraph. In a narrative essay, it is an example of the nightclub commotion, and, in a philosophical essay, it is the habit of volunteering in healthcare settings. In a college application essay, the feature is evident in a story about working with medical personnel in first-aid simulations. In an autobiographical essay, it is about evening walks to appreciate nature.

Summing Up on How to Write a “Who Am I” Essay

Essay writing is an exciting and challenging academic exercise for students across all levels of education. Although there are different types of essays, structure and outline formats remain the same: introduction, body, and conclusion. In essence, what students need to understand is the essential features that enrich the content in the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. When writing an essay on “Who Am I” students need to know that such a paper is different from a standard format. Moreover, the central point of difference is that such an essay requires students to use the first-person language in a paper, which can take formats of narrative, philosophical, college application, or autobiographical essays. In writing such an essay, students must master the following tips:

  • use the first-person language;
  • make use of personal anecdotes;
  • “show, not tell” by providing vivid descriptions;
  • develop a thesis in the introduction;
  • use topic sentences to introduce ideas in a paragraph;
  • observe a maximum length requirement and a minimum length requirement of a “Who Am I” essay by considering a word count.

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

who am i essay example for college students

Essay Rubric: Basic Guidelines and Sample Template

  • 11 October 2020

who am i essay example for college students

Essay on Who Am I Examples and Samples

  • Essay on Bullying Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Artificial Intelligence Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Music Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Problem Solution Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Integrity Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Leadership Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Domestic Violence Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Respect Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Profile Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Life Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Autobiographical Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Obesity Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Cyberbullying Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Technology Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Professionalism Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Career Goals Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Animal Testing Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Drug Abuse Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Immigrations Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Capital Punishment Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Communication Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Friendship Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Community Service Examples and Samples
  • Essay on My Family Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Frankenstein Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Pro Life Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Anxiety Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Industrial Revolution Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Research Argument Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Food Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Great Depression Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Self-Reflection Examples and Samples
  • Essay on The Great Gatsby Examples and Samples
  • Essay On What Does It Mean to Be American Examples and Samples
  • Essay on World War 2 Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Ethics Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Concert Review Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Fahrenheit 451 Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Nursing Scholarship Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Pro Choice Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Process Analysis Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Solar Energy Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Personal Narrative Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Hamlet Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Civil Rights Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Rhetoric Examples and Samples
  • Essay on Martin Luther King Examples and Samples

Recent Articles

How Your Childhood Affects Your Love Style

Jul 18 2023

How Your Childhood Affects Your Love Style Essay Sample Example

Man hiding his identity

Apr 20 2019

Beyond Identity Essay Sample, Example

Jan 23 2018

Who Am I? Essay Sample, Example

Remember Me

What is your profession ? Student Teacher Writer Other

Forgotten Password?

Username or Email

404 Not found

  • Entertainment
  • Environment
  • Information Science and Technology
  • Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Life

Essay Samples on Who Am I

What makes me who i am: understanding the self.

What makes me who I am? This question delves into the intricate web of experiences, beliefs, values, and influences that shape the essence of my identity. As I navigate the journey of life, the interplay of my heritage, relationships, personal choices, and aspirations weaves together...

How to Answer "Who Am I?": the Omportance of Self-reflection

The question "Who am I?" is a profound inquiry that invites us to explore our identity, values, and beliefs. While this question may seem simple, its complexity lies in the intricate interplay of our experiences, emotions, and perceptions. Answering "Who am I?" requires introspection, self-discovery,...

  • About Myself

Exploring What Makes Me Different From Others

What makes you different from others? This question invites introspection into the distinctive qualities, experiences, and perspectives that shape my identity. In a world marked by diversity, each person possesses a unique combination of traits that sets them apart. This essay will delve into the...

Exploring What Makes You Who You Are

Have you ever stopped to ponder what makes you the unique individual you are? From your beliefs and experiences to your personality and values, the factors that shape your identity are complex and multifaceted. This essay delves into the intriguing question of what makes you...

Describe Yourself: My Journey of Self-Discovery and Self-Reflection

Personality is never easily defined. Many people have a hard time describing what they are. They like to think that they have all of these 'perfect' traits, but each one has advantages and disadvantages. Thankfully, personality psychology exists to help. Through various theories and many...

  • Personality

Stressed out with your paper?

Consider using writing assistance:

  • 100% unique papers
  • 3 hrs deadline option

Life in a Mixtape: Describing Yourself Through Songs

In this essay about yourself I will be introducing you to a playlist of songs that represent me leaving and coming back to Humboldt County. The songs I will be showing you to introduce some of my life are, Home by Phillip Phillips, Gravity by...

All About Me: Re-Descovering Personality and Traits

By taking this course I read lots of 'All about me' essay examples. Also I did many different self-assessments to know myself better. I will firstly give an overview on those results. Based on Self-assessment Personality Inventory, my personality type involves introversion, sensing, feeling and...

How to Define Yourself by Chuck Clifton Book Analysis

Who are you? How do you define yourself? These are the questions How to Define Yourself answers using the Stimulus-Space of Time-Response model. Throughout the book, we learn to become better versions of ourselves by Predefining ourselves and carrying out these definitions to Define yourself...

  • Being Yourself

Beneath The Layers: Personal Description

When I first got this assignment, I was at a loss as to how to proceed with it. However, as I began to internalize it, I realized that it’s an opportunity to get to know myself better. I look upon this as an opportunity to...

Personal Evaluation: Learning From Struggles

Who am I? Such a simple question to ask but such a profoundly tricky question to answer. Sometimes a person may feel that they have no purpose in life and don’t really know who they truly are. Discovering who you are just takes the time...

An Individual's Thoughts on Self-Discovery

The question is who am I? How do you answer that question when really you don’t know who you are yet? All I know is that I’m Andrea Spencer, a 20 year old adult just trying to figure herself out. Each day I get to...

An Independent Report on Life-Changing Events

Who am I? Can any person tell me who am I just from my name? Can person tell me from reading a background check on my life, what kind of woman I’m going to develop into? I can be a scientist, lawyer, cartoonist, actress or...

  • Family Relationships

Examining Socrates Arguments on the Impact of the Physical Appearance

"Who am I? Socrates once said that the unexamined life is not worth living. You have to figure out who you are by finding the principles that lie within you. Once you find those principles, you have to live your life by those principles. Before...

  • Physical Appearance

Best topics on Who Am I

1. What Makes Me Who I Am: Understanding the Self

2. How to Answer “Who Am I?”: the Omportance of Self-reflection

3. Exploring What Makes Me Different From Others

4. Exploring What Makes You Who You Are

5. Describe Yourself: My Journey of Self-Discovery and Self-Reflection

6. Life in a Mixtape: Describing Yourself Through Songs

7. All About Me: Re-Descovering Personality and Traits

8. How to Define Yourself by Chuck Clifton Book Analysis

9. Beneath The Layers: Personal Description

10. Personal Evaluation: Learning From Struggles

11. An Individual’s Thoughts on Self-Discovery

12. An Independent Report on Life-Changing Events

13. Examining Socrates Arguments on the Impact of the Physical Appearance

  • Personal Experience
  • Perseverance
  • Career Goals
  • Affordable Housing
  • Cohabitation

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

who am I essay

“Who Am I?”, Free Essay Sample

November 18, 2023 Gloria Kopp Writing Samples 4

Who am I? At first glance, it’s a simple looking question and seems equally simple to answer. Most often, I’ll start answering this question by listing off things about myself – my age, what I do for a living, how many children I have, and so on. But do those things truly define who I am? What about my hobbies, interests and personality? Once I started thinking about this ‘simple’ question a little more, I quickly realized, it’s a lot more complicated than I thought – and I found it to be a difficult one to answer.

The Contextual Nature of Who I Am

See, who I am can also depend on where I am, what I’m doing, who I’m with, among other things. Who I am is always changing in some ways. Some people will never see certain sides of me, but each of the many sides of my character make up who I am. In some situations, and with certain people, I’m totally outgoing, but pair me up with different people and I’m shy as a mouse. Those people who’ve only seen my shy side would never believe that ‘who I am’ is someone who can belt out Miley Cyrus’ ‘Party In the U.S.A’ at Saturday night karaoke like no one’s business!

Core Beliefs and Unchanging Aspects of My Identity

But there are also, I believe, the fundamental things in our character that truly define us that will never change, no matter how old we get, or who we’re with. I am someone who believes that everyone should live their lives – as long as they aren’t hurting anyone else – doing whatever makes them happy. I’ve never, and will never, push my own personal beliefs on anyone. And, even when I don’t see eye-to-eye with someone else on a topic, I realize that it’s not my place to impose what I believe in their life.

The Evolving Self

So maybe that’s who I am? But that can’t be it, right? There’s got to be more to me than just my ‘ability’ to leave other people alone, doesn’t there?

In reality, it’s a complex question to answer. And, I could answer as truthfully and thoroughly as I possibly could today, but by tomorrow, that answer could be totally different. I’ve heard so many stories of individuals who ‘became different people’ after a life-altering event – birth of a child, a loved one dying or a close-call for themselves. Experience can change everything, and often does. I know for myself, I’m not the same person I was when I was a teenager, or even in my 20’s or 30’s – not in every single way, at least!

The Private and Public Selves

Although we often feel like who we are is largely ‘decided’ and defined by others and how they view us, we are the only person who is with ourselves at every moment of our lives from when we’re born to our death. I am the only person experiencing this completely unique perspective of being me. It’s also been said before that who you are when no one is watching will truly define who you are as a person. So, it’s really up to each person to recognize who they are when there are no eyes on them, and create their own definition.

Conclusion: A Continuous Journey of Self-Discovery

Who I am is an always-changing, learning and evolving person. I’m willing to learn from my experiences, apply them to my life and hope that they make me a better person. And, if I can help do the same in someone else’s life, that just adds so much happiness to who I am as a person involved in their life. No, not everyone I know will see my best Miley Cyrus impression, but maybe that’s not the side of who I am that they need to see.

If you’re struggling to write this essay on your own, check out my review of the top essay writing services . I’ve handpicked only the very best companies known for their good writers and original work.

4 Comments Posted

this is a complicated question. looking forward to learn more of who we are.

Nicely explained but If i am asked”who am i?” i would say really dont know

I’m so disappointed to talk about my self….what make me to a different who I am.

Who am I? Big question it is, no one could know the answer of this.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Who Am I — Understanding The Self: Who Am I as Person

test_template

Understanding The Self: Who Am I as Person

  • Categories: Finding Yourself Holden Caulfield Who Am I

About this sample

close

Words: 978 |

Published: Oct 13, 2021

Words: 978 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Who I Am As A Person

Works cited:.

  • Bradbury, R. (2012). Fahrenheit 451. Simon and Schuster.
  • Bloom, H. (Ed.). (2010). Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451. Infobase Publishing.
  • Cadden, M. (1995). Science fiction and the mass cultural genre system. Science-Fiction Studies, 22(3), 317-328.
  • Coale, S. (2004). "Out of Bounds and Out of Control": Reading Race, Space, and Class in Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451. Science Fiction Studies, 31(3), 349-367.
  • Hiner, S. E. (2003). The perfectibility of man and society in Fahrenheit 451. The Midwest Quarterly, 45(2), 282-296.
  • Isaacs, L. D. (2002). Ray Bradbury. Salem Press.
  • Jaffa, H. V. (2003). Fahrenheit 451: Misinterpreting a classic. Academic Questions, 16(3), 16-21.
  • Larrick, N. (1967). The all-white world of children's books. The Saturday Review, 50(42), 63-65.
  • Schaub, J. F. (2011). The mind's I: Fantasies and reflections on self and soul. University of Notre Dame Press.
  • Simkin, J. (2018). Social criticism in Fahrenheit 451 and 1984. The Explicator, 76(4), 225-230.

Image of Dr. Oliver Johnson

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

author

Dr. Karlyna PhD

Verified writer

  • Expert in: Life Literature

writer

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 702 words

2 pages / 732 words

2 pages / 691 words

1 pages / 648 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Understanding The Self: Who Am I as Person Essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Who Am I

In weaving the meaning of my name into the fabric of my identity, I reflect upon the deliberations my parents underwent upon my arrival into this world. When I was born, my parents couldn’t decide on what to name me – my dad [...]

Have you ever wondered what makes you, you? In today's fast-paced world, understanding our own personalities can provide valuable insights into our behavior, relationships, and career choices. In this essay, I will delve into [...]

What makes me who I am? This question has lingered in my mind for as long as I can remember. As I delve into the complexities of my personality, I am met with a tapestry of traits, experiences, and beliefs that have shaped me [...]

Self-Reflection and Identity Explore the concept of self-reflection and the journey to discovering one's identity. How has self-awareness evolved throughout your life, and what factors have contributed to your [...]

Have you ever wondered what makes a writer unique? As I delve into the exploration of who I am as a writer, I invite you to join me on a journey of self-discovery and reflection. Through this essay, I will delve into the various [...]

In this essay I am going to explain my family history. It is almost a tradition to go into the army, or into different areas related to that, like the Marines, in my family. My uncle, my mother’s father, my great grandfather, [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

who am i essay example for college students

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Duke University

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

who am i essay example for college students

10 Personal Statement Essay Examples That Worked

What’s covered:, what is a personal statement.

  • Essay 1: Summer Program
  • Essay 2: Being Bangladeshi-American
  • Essay 3: Why Medicine
  • Essay 4: Love of Writing
  • Essay 5: Starting a Fire
  • Essay 6: Dedicating a Track
  • Essay 7: Body Image and Eating Disorders
  • Essay 8: Becoming a Coach
  • Essay 9: Eritrea
  • Essay 10: Journaling
  • Is Your Personal Statement Strong Enough?

Your personal statement is any essay that you must write for your main application, such as the Common App Essay , University of California Essays , or Coalition Application Essay . This type of essay focuses on your unique experiences, ideas, or beliefs that may not be discussed throughout the rest of your application. This essay should be an opportunity for the admissions officers to get to know you better and give them a glimpse into who you really are.

In this post, we will share 10 different personal statements that were all written by real students. We will also provide commentary on what each essay did well and where there is room for improvement, so you can make your personal statement as strong as possible!

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Personal Statement Examples

Essay example #1: exchange program.

The twisting roads, ornate mosaics, and fragrant scent of freshly ground spices had been so foreign at first. Now in my fifth week of the SNYI-L summer exchange program in Morocco, I felt more comfortable in the city. With a bag full of pastries from the market, I navigated to a bus stop, paid the fare, and began the trip back to my host family’s house. It was hard to believe that only a few years earlier my mom was worried about letting me travel around my home city on my own, let alone a place that I had only lived in for a few weeks. While I had been on a journey towards self-sufficiency and independence for a few years now, it was Morocco that pushed me to become the confident, self-reflective person that I am today.

As a child, my parents pressured me to achieve perfect grades, master my swim strokes, and discover interesting hobbies like playing the oboe and learning to pick locks. I felt compelled to live my life according to their wishes. Of course, this pressure was not a wholly negative factor in my life –– you might even call it support. However, the constant presence of my parents’ hopes for me overcame my own sense of desire and led me to become quite dependent on them. I pushed myself to get straight A’s, complied with years of oboe lessons, and dutifully attended hours of swim practice after school. Despite all these achievements, I felt like I had no sense of self beyond my drive for success. I had always been expected to succeed on the path they had defined. However, this path was interrupted seven years after my parents’ divorce when my dad moved across the country to Oregon.

I missed my dad’s close presence, but I loved my new sense of freedom. My parents’ separation allowed me the space to explore my own strengths and interests as each of them became individually busier. As early as middle school, I was riding the light rail train by myself, reading maps to get myself home, and applying to special academic programs without urging from my parents. Even as I took more initiatives on my own, my parents both continued to see me as somewhat immature. All of that changed three years ago, when I applied and was accepted to the SNYI-L summer exchange program in Morocco. I would be studying Arabic and learning my way around the city of Marrakesh. Although I think my parents were a little surprised when I told them my news, the addition of a fully-funded scholarship convinced them to let me go.

I lived with a host family in Marrakesh and learned that they, too, had high expectations for me. I didn’t know a word of Arabic, and although my host parents and one brother spoke good English, they knew I was there to learn. If I messed up, they patiently corrected me but refused to let me fall into the easy pattern of speaking English just as I did at home. Just as I had when I was younger, I felt pressured and stressed about meeting their expectations. However, one day, as I strolled through the bustling market square after successfully bargaining with one of the street vendors, I realized my mistake. My host family wasn’t being unfair by making me fumble through Arabic. I had applied for this trip, and I had committed to the intensive language study. My host family’s rules about speaking Arabic at home had not been to fulfill their expectations for me, but to help me fulfill my expectations for myself. Similarly, the pressure my parents had put on me as a child had come out of love and their hopes for me, not out of a desire to crush my individuality.

As my bus drove through the still-bustling market square and past the medieval Ben-Youssef madrasa, I realized that becoming independent was a process, not an event. I thought that my parents’ separation when I was ten had been the one experience that would transform me into a self-motivated and autonomous person. It did, but that didn’t mean that I didn’t still have room to grow. Now, although I am even more self-sufficient than I was three years ago, I try to approach every experience with the expectation that it will change me. It’s still difficult, but I understand that just because growth can be uncomfortable doesn’t mean it’s not important.

What the Essay Did Well

This is a nice essay because it delves into particular character trait of the student and how it has been shaped and matured over time. Although it doesn’t focus the essay around a specific anecdote, the essay is still successful because it is centered around this student’s independence. This is a nice approach for a personal statement: highlight a particular trait of yours and explore how it has grown with you.

The ideas in this essay are universal to growing up—living up to parents’ expectations, yearning for freedom, and coming to terms with reality—but it feels unique to the student because of the inclusion of details specific to them. Including their oboe lessons, the experience of riding the light rail by themselves, and the negotiations with a street vendor helps show the reader what these common tropes of growing up looked like for them personally. 

Another strength of the essay is the level of self-reflection included throughout the piece. Since there is no central anecdote tying everything together, an essay about a character trait is only successful when you deeply reflect on how you felt, where you made mistakes, and how that trait impacts your life. The author includes reflection in sentences like “ I felt like I had no sense of self beyond my drive for success, ” and “ I understand that just because growth can be uncomfortable doesn’t mean it’s not important. ” These sentences help us see how the student was impacted and what their point of view is.

What Could Be Improved

The largest change this essay would benefit from is to show not tell. The platitude you have heard a million times no doubt, but for good reason. This essay heavily relies on telling the reader what occurred, making us less engaged as the entire reading experience feels more passive. If the student had shown us what happens though, it keeps the reader tied to the action and makes them feel like they are there with the student, making it much more enjoyable to read. 

For example, they tell us about the pressure to succeed their parents placed on them: “ I pushed myself to get straight A’s, complied with years of oboe lessons, and dutifully attended hours of swim practice after school.”  They could have shown us what that pressure looked like with a sentence like this: “ My stomach turned somersaults as my rattling knee thumped against the desk before every test, scared to get anything less than a 95. For five years the painful squawk of the oboe only reminded me of my parents’ claps and whistles at my concerts. I mastered the butterfly, backstroke, and freestyle, fighting against the anchor of their expectations threatening to pull me down.”

If the student had gone through their essay and applied this exercise of bringing more detail and colorful language to sentences that tell the reader what happened, the essay would be really great. 

Table of Contents

Essay Example #2: Being Bangladeshi-American

Life before was good: verdant forests, sumptuous curries, and a devoted family.

Then, my family abandoned our comfortable life in Bangladesh for a chance at the American dream in Los Angeles. Within our first year, my father was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. He lost his battle three weeks before my sixth birthday. Facing a new country without the steady presence of my father, we were vulnerable — prisoners of hardship in the land of the free. We resettled in the Bronx, in my uncle’s renovated basement. It was meant to be our refuge, but I felt more displaced than ever. Gone were the high-rise condos of West L.A.; instead, government projects towered over the neighborhood. Pedestrians no longer smiled and greeted me; the atmosphere was hostile, even toxic. Schoolkids were quick to pick on those they saw as weak or foreign, hurling harsh words I’d never heard before.

Meanwhile, my family began integrating into the local Bangladeshi community. I struggled to understand those who shared my heritage. Bangladeshi mothers stayed home while fathers drove cabs and sold fruit by the roadside — painful societal positions. Riding on crosstown buses or walking home from school, I began to internalize these disparities. During my fleeting encounters with affluent Upper East Siders, I saw kids my age with nannies, parents who wore suits to work, and luxurious apartments with spectacular views. Most took cabs to their destinations: cabs that Bangladeshis drove. I watched the mundane moments of their lives with longing, aching to plant myself in their shoes. Shame prickled down my spine. I distanced myself from my heritage, rejecting the traditional panjabis worn on Eid and refusing the torkari we ate for dinner every day. 

As I grappled with my relationship with the Bangladeshi community, I turned my attention to helping my Bronx community by pursuing an internship with Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda. I handled desk work and took calls, spending the bulk of my time actively listening to the hardships constituents faced — everything from a veteran stripped of his benefits to a grandmother unable to support her bedridden grandchild.

I’d never exposed myself to stories like these, and now I was the first to hear them. As an intern, I could only assist in what felt like the small ways — pointing out local job offerings, printing information on free ESL classes, reaching out to non-profits. But to a community facing an onslaught of intense struggles, I realized that something as small as these actions could have vast impacts. Seeing the immediate consequences of my actions inspired me. Throughout that summer, I internalized my community’s daily challenges in a new light. I began to stop seeing the prevalent underemployment and cramped living quarters less as sources of shame. Instead, I saw them as realities that had to be acknowledged, but could ultimately be remedied. I also realized the benefits of the Bangladeshi culture I had been so ashamed of. My Bangla language skills were an asset to the office, and my understanding of Bangladeshi etiquette allowed for smooth communication between office staff and its constituents. As I helped my neighbors navigate city services, I saw my heritage with pride — a perspective I never expected to have.

I can now appreciate the value of my unique culture and background, and of living with less. This perspective offers room for progress, community integration, and a future worth fighting for. My time with Assemblyman Sepulveda’s office taught me that I can be a change agent in enabling this progression. Far from being ashamed of my community, I want to someday return to local politics in the Bronx to continue helping others access the American Dream. I hope to help my community appreciate the opportunity to make progress together. By embracing reality, I learned to live it. Along the way, I discovered one thing: life is good, but we can make it better.

This student’s passion for social justice and civic duty shines through in this essay because of how honest it is. Sharing their personal experience with immigrating, moving around, being an outsider, and finding a community allows us to see the hardships this student has faced and builds empathy towards their situation. However, what really makes it strong is that they go beyond describing the difficulties they faced and explain the mental impact it had on them as a child: Shame prickled down my spine. I distanced myself from my heritage, rejecting the traditional panjabis worn on Eid and refusing the torkari we ate for dinner every day. 

The rejection of their culture presented at the beginning of the essay creates a nice juxtaposition with the student’s view in the latter half of the essay and helps demonstrate how they have matured. They use their experience interning as a way to delve into a change in their thought process about their culture and show how their passion for social justice began. Using this experience as a mechanism to explore their thoughts and feelings is an excellent example of how items that are included elsewhere on your application should be incorporated into your essay.

This essay prioritizes emotions and personal views over specific anecdotes. Although there are details and certain moments incorporated throughout to emphasize the author’s points, the main focus remains on the student and how they grapple with their culture and identity.  

One area for improvement is the conclusion. Although the forward-looking approach is a nice way to end an essay focused on social justice, it would be nice to include more details and imagery in the conclusion. How does the student want to help their community? What government position do they see themselves holding one day? 

A more impactful ending might look like the student walking into their office at the New York City Housing Authority in 15 years and looking at the plans to build a new development in the Bronx just blocks away from where the grew up that would provide quality housing to people in their Bangladeshi community. They would smile while thinking about how far they have come from that young kid who used to be ashamed of their culture. 

Essay Example #3: Why Medicine

I took my first trip to China to visit my cousin Anna in July of 2014. Distance had kept us apart, but when we were together, we fell into all of our old inside jokes and caught up on each other’s lives. Her sparkling personality and optimistic attitude always brought a smile to my face. This time, however, my heart broke when I saw the effects of her brain cancer; she had suffered from a stroke that paralyzed her left side. She was still herself in many ways, but I could see that the damage to her brain made things difficult for her. I stayed by her every day, providing the support she needed, whether assisting her with eating and drinking, reading to her, or just watching “Friends.” During my flight back home, sorrow and helplessness overwhelmed me. Would I ever see Anna again? Could I have done more to make Anna comfortable? I wished I could stay in China longer to care for her. As I deplaned, I wondered if I could transform my grief to help other children and teenagers in the US who suffered as Anna did.

The day after I got home, as jet lag dragged me awake a few minutes after midnight, I remembered hearing about the Family Reach Foundation (FRF) and its work with children going through treatments at the local hospital and their families. I began volunteering in the FRF’s Children’s Activity Room, where I play with children battling cancer. Volunteering has both made me appreciate my own health and also cherish the new relationships I build with the children and families. We play sports, make figures out of playdoh, and dress up. When they take on the roles of firefighters or fairies, we all get caught up in the game; for that time, they forget the sanitized, stark, impersonal walls of the pediatric oncology ward. Building close relationships with them and seeing them giggle and laugh is so rewarding — I love watching them grow and get better throughout their course of treatment.

Hearing from the parents about their children’s condition and seeing the children recover inspired me to consider medical research. To get started, I enrolled in a summer collegelevel course in Abnormal Psychology. There I worked with Catelyn, a rising college senior, on a data analysis project regarding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). Together, we examined the neurological etiology of DID by studying four fMRI and PET cases. I fell in love with gathering data and analyzing the results and was amazed by our final product: several stunning brain images showcasing the areas of hyper and hypoactivity in brains affected by DID. Desire quickly followed my amazement — I want to continue this project and study more brains. Their complexity, delicacy, and importance to every aspect of life fascinate me. Successfully completing this research project gave me a sense of hope; I know I am capable of participating in a large scale research project and potentially making a difference in someone else’s life through my research.

Anna’s diagnosis inspired me to begin volunteering at FRF; from there, I discovered my desire to help people further by contributing to medical research. As my research interest blossomed, I realized that it’s no coincidence that I want to study brains—after all, Anna suffered from brain cancer. Reflecting on these experiences this past year and a half, I see that everything I’ve done is connected. Sadly, a few months after I returned from China, Anna passed away. I am still sad, but as I run a toy truck across the floor and watch one of the little patients’ eyes light up, I imagine that she would be proud of my commitment to pursue medicine and study the brain.

This essay has a very strong emotional core that tugs at the heart strings and makes the reader feel invested. Writing about sickness can be difficult and doesn’t always belong in a personal statement, but in this case it works well because the focus is on how this student cared for her cousin and dealt with the grief and emotions surrounding her condition. Writing about the compassion she showed and the doubts and concerns that filled her mind keeps the focus on the author and her personality. 

This continues when she again discusses the activities she did with the kids at FRF and the personal reflection this experience allowed her to have. For example, she writes: Volunteering has both made me appreciate my own health and also cherish the new relationships I build with the children and families. We play sports, make figures out of playdoh, and dress up.

Concluding the essay with the sad story of her cousin’s passing brings the essay full circle and returns to the emotional heart of the piece to once again build a connection with the reader. However, it finishes on a hopeful note and demonstrates how this student has been able to turn a tragic experience into a source of lifelong inspiration. 

One thing this essay should be cognizant of is that personal statements should not read as summaries of your extracurricular resume. Although this essay doesn’t fully fall into that trap, it does describe two key extracurriculars the student participated in. However, the inclusion of such a strong emotional core running throughout the essay helps keep the focus on the student and her thoughts and feelings during these activities.

To avoid making this mistake, make sure you have a common thread running through your essay and the extracurriculars provide support to the story you are trying to tell, rather than crafting a story around your activities. And, as this essay does, make sure there is lots of personal reflection and feelings weaved throughout to focus attention to you rather than your extracurriculars. 

Essay Example #4: Love of Writing

“I want to be a writer.” This had been my answer to every youthful discussion with the adults in my life about what I would do when I grew up. As early as elementary school, I remember reading my writing pieces aloud to an audience at “Author of the Month” ceremonies. Bearing this goal in mind, and hoping to gain some valuable experience, I signed up for a journalism class during my freshman year. Despite my love for writing, I initially found myself uninterested in the subject and I struggled to enjoy the class. When I thought of writing, I imagined lyrical prose, profound poetry, and thrilling plot lines. Journalism required a laconic style and orderly structure, and I found my teacher’s assignments formulaic and dull. That class shook my confidence as a writer. I was uncertain if I should continue in it for the rest of my high school career.

Despite my misgivings, I decided that I couldn’t make a final decision on whether to quit journalism until I had some experience working for a paper outside of the classroom. The following year, I applied to be a staff reporter on our school newspaper. I hoped this would help me become more self-driven and creative, rather than merely writing articles that my teacher assigned. To my surprise, my time on staff was worlds away from what I experienced in the journalism class. Although I was unaccustomed to working in a fast-paced environment and initially found it burdensome to research and complete high-quality stories in a relatively short amount of time, I also found it exciting. I enjoyed learning more about topics and events on campus that I did not know much about; some of my stories that I covered in my first semester concerned a chess tournament, a food drive, and a Spanish immersion party. I relished in the freedom I had to explore and learn, and to write more independently than I could in a classroom.

Although I enjoyed many aspects of working for the paper immediately, reporting also pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I am a shy person, and speaking with people I did not know intimidated me. During my first interview, I met with the basketball coach to prepare for a story about the team’s winning streak. As I approached his office, I felt everything from my toes to my tongue freeze into a solid block, and I could hardly get out my opening questions. Fortunately, the coach was very kind and helped me through the conversation. Encouraged, I prepared for my next interview with more confidence. After a few weeks of practice, I even started to look forward to interviewing people on campus. That first journalism class may have bored me, but even if journalism in practice was challenging, it was anything but tedious.

Over the course of that year, I grew to love writing for our school newspaper. Reporting made me aware of my surroundings, and made me want to know more about current events on campus and in the town where I grew up. By interacting with people all over campus, I came to understand the breadth of individuals and communities that make up my high school. I felt far more connected to diverse parts of my school through my work as a journalist, and I realized that journalism gave me a window into seeing beyond my own experiences. The style of news writing may be different from what I used to think “writing” meant, but I learned that I can still derive exciting plots from events that may have gone unnoticed if not for my stories. I no longer struggle to approach others, and truly enjoy getting to know people and recognizing their accomplishments through my writing. Becoming a writer may be a difficult path, but it is as rewarding as I hoped when I was young.

This essay is clearly structured in a manner that makes it flow very nicely and contributes to its success. It starts with a quote to draw in the reader and show this student’s life-long passion for writing. Then it addresses the challenges of facing new, unfamiliar territory and how this student overcame it. Finally, it concludes by reflecting on this eye-opening experience and a nod to their younger self from the introduction. Having a well-thought out and sequential structure with clear transitions makes it extremely easy for the reader to follow along and take away the main idea.

Another positive aspect of the essay is the use of strong and expressive language. Sentences like “ When I thought of writing, I imagined lyrical prose, profound poetry, and thrilling plot lines ” stand out because of the intentional use of words like “lyrical”, “profound”, and “thrilling” to convey the student’s love of writing. The author also uses an active voice to capture the readers’ attention and keep us engaged. They rely on their language and diction to reveal details to the reader, for instance saying “ I felt everything from my toes to my tongue freeze into a solid block ” to describe feeling nervous.

This essay is already very strong, so there isn’t much that needs to be changed. One thing that could take the essay from great to outstanding would be to throw in more quotes, internal dialogue, and sensory descriptors.

It would be nice to see the nerves they felt interviewing the coach by including dialogue like “ Um…I want to interview you about…uh…”.  They could have shown their original distaste for journalism by narrating the thoughts running through their head. The fast-paced environment of their newspaper could have come to life with descriptions about the clacking of keyboards and the whirl of people running around laying out articles.

Essay Example #5: Starting a Fire

Was I no longer the beloved daughter of nature, whisperer of trees? Knee-high rubber boots, camouflage, bug spray—I wore the garb and perfume of a proud wild woman, yet there I was, hunched over the pathetic pile of stubborn sticks, utterly stumped, on the verge of tears. As a child, I had considered myself a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees, who could glide through tick-infested meadows and emerge Lyme-free. I knew the cracks of the earth like the scars on my own rough palms. Yet here I was, ten years later, incapable of performing the most fundamental outdoor task: I could not, for the life of me, start a fire. 

Furiously I rubbed the twigs together—rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers. No smoke. The twigs were too young, too sticky-green; I tossed them away with a shower of curses, and began tearing through the underbrush in search of a more flammable collection. My efforts were fruitless. Livid, I bit a rejected twig, determined to prove that the forest had spurned me, offering only young, wet bones that would never burn. But the wood cracked like carrots between my teeth—old, brittle, and bitter. Roaring and nursing my aching palms, I retreated to the tent, where I sulked and awaited the jeers of my family. 

Rattling their empty worm cans and reeking of fat fish, my brother and cousins swaggered into the campsite. Immediately, they noticed the minor stick massacre by the fire pit and called to me, their deep voices already sharp with contempt. 

“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame. 

In the tent, I pondered my failure. Was I so dainty? Was I that incapable? I thought of my hands, how calloused and capable they had been, how tender and smooth they had become. It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive. And I’d gotten glasses, having grown horrifically nearsighted; long nights of dim lighting and thick books had done this. I couldn’t remember the last time I had lain down on a hill, barefaced, and seen the stars without having to squint. Crawling along the edge of the tent, a spider confirmed my transformation—he disgusted me, and I felt an overwhelming urge to squash him. 

Yet, I realized I hadn’t really changed—I had only shifted perspective. I still eagerly explored new worlds, but through poems and prose rather than pastures and puddles. I’d grown to prefer the boom of a bass over that of a bullfrog, learned to coax a different kind of fire from wood, having developed a burn for writing rhymes and scrawling hypotheses. 

That night, I stayed up late with my journal and wrote about the spider I had decided not to kill. I had tolerated him just barely, only shrieking when he jumped—it helped to watch him decorate the corners of the tent with his delicate webs, knowing that he couldn’t start fires, either. When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.

This student is an excellent writer, which allows a simple story to be outstandingly compelling. The author articulates her points beautifully and creatively through her immense use of details and figurative language. Lines like “a rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees,” and “rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers,” create vivid images that draw the reader in. 

The flowery and descriptive prose also contributes to the nice juxtaposition between the old Clara and the new Clara. The latter half of the essay contrasts elements of nature with music and writing to demonstrate how natural these interests are for her now. This sentence perfectly encapsulates the contrast she is trying to build: “It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive.”

In addition to being well-written, this essay is thematically cohesive. It begins with the simple introduction “Fire!” and ends with the following image: “When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.” This full-circle approach leaves readers satisfied and impressed.

There is very little this essay should change, however one thing to be cautious about is having an essay that is overly-descriptive. We know from the essay that this student likes to read and write, and depending on other elements of her application, it might make total sense to have such a flowery and ornate writing style. However, your personal statement needs to reflect your voice as well as your personality. If you would never use language like this in conversation or your writing, don’t put it in your personal statement. Make sure there is a balance between eloquence and your personal voice.

Essay Example #6: Dedicating a Track

“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.

Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.

Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.

They didn’t bite. 

Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.

Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin. 

The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.

This essay effectively conveys this student’s compassion for others, initiative, and determination—all great qualities to exemplify in a personal statement!

Although they rely on telling us a lot of what happened up until the board meeting, the use of running a race (their passion) as a metaphor for public speaking provides a lot of insight into the fear that this student overcame to work towards something bigger than themself. Comparing a podium to the starting line, the audience to the track, and silence to the gunshot is a nice way of demonstrating this student’s passion for cross country running without making that the focus of the story.

The essay does a nice job of coming full circle at the end by explaining what the quote from the beginning meant to them after this experience. Without explicitly saying “ I now know that what Stark actually meant is…” they rely on the strength of their argument above to make it obvious to the reader what it means to get beat but not lose. 

One of the biggest areas of improvement in the intro, however, is how the essay tells us Stark’s impact rather than showing us: His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The writer could’ve helped us feel a stronger emotional connection to Stark if they had included examples of Stark’s qualities, rather than explicitly stating them. For example, they could’ve written something like: Stark was the kind of person who would give you gas money if you told him your parents couldn’t afford to pick you up from practice. And he actually did that—several times. At track meets, alumni regularly would come talk to him and tell him how he’d changed their lives. Before Stark, I was ambivalent about running and was on the JV team, but his encouragement motivated me to run longer and harder and eventually make varsity. Because of him, I approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

Essay Example #7: Body Image and Eating Disorders

I press the “discover” button on my Instagram app, hoping to find enticing pictures to satisfy my boredom. Scrolling through, I see funny videos and mouth-watering pictures of food. However, one image stops me immediately. A fit teenage girl with a “perfect body” relaxes in a bikini on a beach. Beneath it, I see a slew of flattering comments. I shake with disapproval over the image’s unrealistic quality. However, part of me still wants to have a body like hers so that others will make similar comments to me.

I would like to resolve a silent issue that harms many teenagers and adults: negative self image and low self-esteem in a world where social media shapes how people view each other. When people see the façades others wear to create an “ideal” image, they can develop poor thought patterns rooted in negative self-talk. The constant comparisons to “perfect” others make people feel small. In this new digital age, it is hard to distinguish authentic from artificial representations.

When I was 11, I developed anorexia nervosa. Though I was already thin, I wanted to be skinny like the models that I saw on the magazine covers on the grocery store stands. Little did I know that those models probably also suffered from disorders, and that photoshop erased their flaws. I preferred being underweight to being healthy. No matter how little I ate or how thin I was, I always thought that I was too fat. I became obsessed with the number on the scale and would try to eat the least that I could without my parents urging me to take more. Fortunately, I stopped engaging in anorexic behaviors before middle school. However, my underlying mental habits did not change. The images that had provoked my disorder in the first place were still a constant presence in my life.

By age 15, I was in recovery from anorexia, but suffered from depression. While I used to only compare myself to models, the growth of social media meant I also compared myself to my friends and acquaintances. I felt left out when I saw my friends’ excitement about lake trips they had taken without me. As I scrolled past endless photos of my flawless, thin classmates with hundreds of likes and affirming comments, I felt my jealousy spiral. I wanted to be admired and loved by other people too. However, I felt that I could never be enough. I began to hate the way that I looked, and felt nothing in my life was good enough. I wanted to be called “perfect” and “body goals,” so I tried to only post at certain times of day to maximize my “likes.” When that didn’t work, I started to feel too anxious to post anything at all.  

Body image insecurities and social media comparisons affect thousands of people – men, women, children, and adults – every day. I am lucky – after a few months of my destructive social media habits, I came across a video that pointed out the illusory nature of social media; many Instagram posts only show off good things while people hide their flaws. I began going to therapy, and recovered from my depression. To address the problem of self-image and social media, we can all focus on what matters on the inside and not what is on the surface. As an effort to become healthy internally, I started a club at my school to promote clean eating and radiating beauty from within. It has helped me grow in my confidence, and today I’m not afraid to show others my struggles by sharing my experience with eating disorders. Someday, I hope to make this club a national organization to help teenagers and adults across the country. I support the idea of body positivity and embracing difference, not “perfection.” After all, how can we be ourselves if we all look the same?

This essay covers the difficult topics of eating disorders and mental health. If you’re thinking about covering similar topics in your essay, we recommend reading our post Should You Talk About Mental Health in College Essays?

The short answer is that, yes, you can talk about mental health, but it can be risky. If you do go that route, it’s important to focus on what you learned from the experience.

The strength of this essay is the student’s vulnerability, in excerpts such as this: I wanted to be admired and loved by other people too. However, I felt that I could never be enough. I began to hate the way that I looked, and felt nothing in my life was good enough. I wanted to be called “perfect” and “body goals,” so I tried to only post at certain times of day to maximize my “likes.”

The student goes on to share how they recovered from their depression through an eye-opening video and therapy sessions, and they’re now helping others find their self-worth as well. It’s great that this essay looks towards the future and shares the writer’s goals of making their club a national organization; we can see their ambition and compassion.

The main weakness of this essay is that it doesn’t focus enough on their recovery process, which is arguably the most important part. They could’ve told us more about the video they watched or the process of starting their club and the interactions they’ve had with other members. Especially when sharing such a vulnerable topic, there should be vulnerability in the recovery process too. That way, the reader can fully appreciate all that this student has overcome.

Essay Example #8: Becoming a Coach

”Advanced females ages 13 to 14 please proceed to staging with your coaches at this time.” Skittering around the room, eyes wide and pleading, I frantically explained my situation to nearby coaches. The seconds ticked away in my head; every polite refusal increased my desperation.

Despair weighed me down. I sank to my knees as a stream of competitors, coaches, and officials flowed around me. My dojang had no coach, and the tournament rules prohibited me from competing without one.

Although I wanted to remain strong, doubts began to cloud my mind. I could not help wondering: what was the point of perfecting my skills if I would never even compete? The other members of my team, who had found coaches minutes earlier, attempted to comfort me, but I barely heard their words. They couldn’t understand my despair at being left on the outside, and I never wanted them to understand.

Since my first lesson 12 years ago, the members of my dojang have become family. I have watched them grow up, finding my own happiness in theirs. Together, we have honed our kicks, blocks, and strikes. We have pushed one another to aim higher and become better martial artists. Although my dojang had searched for a reliable coach for years, we had not found one. When we attended competitions in the past, my teammates and I had always gotten lucky and found a sympathetic coach. Now, I knew this practice was unsustainable. It would devastate me to see the other members of my dojang in my situation, unable to compete and losing hope as a result. My dojang needed a coach, and I decided it was up to me to find one.

I first approached the adults in the dojang – both instructors and members’ parents. However, these attempts only reacquainted me with polite refusals. Everyone I asked told me they couldn’t devote multiple weekends per year to competitions. I soon realized that I would have become the coach myself.

At first, the inner workings of tournaments were a mystery to me. To prepare myself for success as a coach, I spent the next year as an official and took coaching classes on the side. I learned everything from motivational strategies to technical, behind-the-scenes components of Taekwondo competitions. Though I emerged with new knowledge and confidence in my capabilities, others did not share this faith.

Parents threw me disbelieving looks when they learned that their children’s coach was only a child herself. My self-confidence was my armor, deflecting their surly glances. Every armor is penetrable, however, and as the relentless barrage of doubts pounded my resilience, it began to wear down. I grew unsure of my own abilities.

Despite the attack, I refused to give up. When I saw the shining eyes of the youngest students preparing for their first competition, I knew I couldn’t let them down. To quit would be to set them up to be barred from competing like I was. The knowledge that I could solve my dojang’s longtime problem motivated me to overcome my apprehension.

Now that my dojang flourishes at competitions, the attacks on me have weakened, but not ended. I may never win the approval of every parent; at times, I am still tormented by doubts, but I find solace in the fact that members of my dojang now only worry about competing to the best of their abilities.

Now, as I arrive at a tournament with my students, I close my eyes and remember the past. I visualize the frantic search for a coach and the chaos amongst my teammates as we competed with one another to find coaches before the staging calls for our respective divisions. I open my eyes to the exact opposite scene. Lacking a coach hurt my ability to compete, but I am proud to know that no member of my dojang will have to face that problem again.

This essay begins with an in-the-moment narrative that really illustrates the chaos of looking for a coach last-minute. We feel the writer’s emotions, particularly her dejectedness, at not being able to compete. Starting an essay in media res  is a great way to capture the attention of your readers and build anticipation for what comes next.

Through this essay, we can see how gutsy and determined the student is in deciding to become a coach themselves. She shows us these characteristics through their actions, rather than explicitly telling us: To prepare myself for success as a coach, I spent the next year as an official and took coaching classes on the side.  Also, by discussing the opposition she faced and how it affected her, the student is open and vulnerable about the reality of the situation.

The essay comes full circle as the author recalls the frantic situations in seeking out a coach, but this is no longer a concern for them and their team. Overall, this essay is extremely effective in painting this student as mature, bold, and compassionate.

The biggest thing this essay needs to work on is showing not telling. Throughout the essay, the student tells us that she “emerged with new knowledge and confidence,” she “grew unsure of her own abilities,” and she “refused to give up”. What we really want to know is what this looks like.

Instead of saying she “emerged with new knowledge and confidence” she should have shared how she taught a new move to a fellow team-member without hesitation. Rather than telling us she “grew unsure of her own abilities” she should have shown what that looked like by including her internal dialogue and rhetorical questions that ran through her mind. She could have demonstrated what “refusing to give up” looks like by explaining how she kept learning coaching techniques on her own, turned to a mentor for advice, or devised a plan to win over the trust of parents. 

Essay Example #9: Eritrea

No one knows where Eritrea is.

On the first day of school, for the past nine years, I would pensively stand in front of a class, a teacher, a stranger  waiting for the inevitable question: Where are you from?

I smile politely, my dimples accentuating my ambiguous features. “Eritrea,” I answer promptly and proudly. But I  am always prepared. Before their expression can deepen into confusion, ready to ask “where is that,” I elaborate,  perhaps with a fleeting hint of exasperation, “East Africa, near Ethiopia.”

Sometimes, I single out the key-shaped hermit nation on a map, stunning teachers who have “never had a student  from there!” Grinning, I resist the urge to remark, “You didn’t even know it existed until two minutes ago!”

Eritrea is to the East of Ethiopia, its arid coastline clutches the lucrative Red Sea. Battle scars litter the ancient  streets – the colonial Italian architecture lathered with bullet holes, the mosques mangled with mortar shells.  Originally part of the world’s first Christian kingdom, Eritrea passed through the hands of colonial Italy, Britain, and  Ethiopia for over a century, until a bloody thirty year war of Independence liberated us.

But these are facts that anyone can know with a quick Google search. These are facts that I have memorised and compounded, first from my Grandmother and now from pristine books  borrowed from the library.

No historical narrative, however, can adequately capture what Eritrea is.  No one knows the aroma of bushels of potatoes, tomatoes, and garlic – still covered in dirt – that leads you to the open-air market. No one knows the poignant scent of spices, arranged in orange piles reminiscent of compacted  dunes.  No one knows how to haggle stubborn herders for sheep and roosters for Christmas celebrations as deliberately as my mother. No one can replicate the perfect balance of spices in dorho and tsebhi as well as my grandmother,  her gnarly hands stirring the pot with ancient precision (chastising my clumsy knife work with the potatoes).  It’s impossible to learn when the injera is ready – the exact moment you have to lift the lid of the mogogo. Do it too  early (or too late) and the flatbread becomes mangled and gross. It is a sixth sense passed through matriarchal  lineages.

There are no sources that catalogue the scent of incense that wafts through the sunlit porch on St. Michael’s; no  films that can capture the luminescence of hundreds of flaming bonfires that fluoresce the sidewalks on Kudus  Yohannes, as excited children chant Ge’ez proverbs whose origin has been lost to time.  You cannot learn the familiarity of walking beneath the towering Gothic figure of the Enda Mariam Cathedral, the  crowds undulating to the ringing of the archaic bells.  I have memorized the sound of the rains hounding the metal roof during kiremti , the heat of the sun pounding  against the Toyota’s window as we sped down towards Ghinda , the opulent brilliance of the stars twinkling in a  sky untainted by light pollution, the scent of warm rolls of bani wafting through the streets at precisely 6 o’clock each day…

I fill my flimsy sketchbook with pictures from my memory. My hand remembers the shapes of the hibiscus drifting  in the wind, the outline of my grandmother (affectionately nicknamed a’abaye ) leaning over the garden, the bizarre architecture of the Fiat Tagliero .  I dice the vegetables with movements handed down from generations. My nose remembers the scent of frying garlic, the sourness of the warm tayta , the sharpness of the mit’mt’a …

This knowledge is intrinsic.  “I am Eritrean,” I repeat. “I am proud.”  Within me is an encyclopedia of history, culture, and idealism.

Eritrea is the coffee made from scratch, the spices drying in the sun, the priests and nuns. Eritrea is wise, filled with ambition, and unseen potential.  Eritrea isn’t a place, it’s an identity.

This is an exceptional essay that provides a window into this student’s culture that really makes their love for their country and heritage leap off the page. The sheer level of details and sensory descriptors this student is able to fit in this space makes the essay stand out. From the smells, to the traditions, sounds, and sights, the author encapsulates all the glory of Eritrea for the reader. 

The vivid images this student is able to create for the reader, whether it is having the tedious conversation with every teacher or cooking in their grandmother’s kitchen, transports us into the story and makes us feel like we are there in the moment with the student. This is a prime example of an essay that shows , not tells.

Besides the amazing imagery, the use of shorter paragraphs also contributes to how engaging this essay is. Employing this tactic helps break up the text to make it more readable and it isolates ideas so they stick out more than if they were enveloped in a large paragraph.

Overall, this is a really strong essay that brings to life this student’s heritage through its use of vivid imagery. This essay exemplifies what it means to show not tell in your writing, and it is a great example of how you can write an intimate personal statement without making yourself the primary focus of your essay. 

There is very little this essay should improve upon, but one thing the student might consider would be to inject more personal reflection into their response. Although we can clearly take away their deep love and passion for their homeland and culture, the essay would be a bit more personal if they included the emotions and feelings they associate with the various aspects of Eritrea. For example, the way their heart swells with pride when their grandmother praises their ability to cook a flatbread or the feeling of serenity when they hear the bells ring out from the cathedral. Including personal details as well as sensory ones would create a wonderful balance of imagery and reflection.

Essay Example #10: Journaling

Flipping past dozens of colorful entries in my journal, I arrive at the final blank sheet. I press my pen lightly to the page, barely scratching its surface to create a series of loops stringing together into sentences. Emotions spill out, and with their release, I feel lightness in my chest. The stream of thoughts slows as I reach the bottom of the page, and I gently close the cover of the worn book: another journal finished.

I add the journal to the stack of eleven books on my nightstand. Struck by the bittersweet sensation of closing a chapter of my life, I grab the notebook at the bottom of the pile to reminisce.

“I want to make a flying mushen to fly in space and your in it” – October 2008

Pulling back the cover of my first Tinkerbell-themed diary, the prompt “My Hopes and Dreams” captures my attention. Though “machine” is misspelled in my scribbled response, I see the beginnings of my past obsession with outer space. At the age of five, I tore through novels about the solar system, experimented with rockets built from plastic straws, and rented Space Shuttle films from Blockbuster to satisfy my curiosities. While I chased down answers to questions as limitless as the universe, I fell in love with learning. Eight journals later, the same relentless curiosity brought me to an airplane descending on San Francisco Bay.

“I wish I had infinite sunsets” – July 2019

I reach for the charcoal notepad near the top of the pile and open to the first page: my flight to the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes. While I was excited to explore bioengineering, anxiety twisted in my stomach as I imagined my destination, unsure of whether I could overcome my shyness and connect with others.

With each new conversation, the sweat on my palms became less noticeable, and I met students from 23 different countries. Many of the moments where I challenged myself socially revolved around the third story deck of the Jerry house. A strange medley of English, Arabic, and Mandarin filled the summer air as my friends and I gathered there every evening, and dialogues at sunset soon became moments of bliss. In our conversations about cultural differences, the possibility of an afterlife, and the plausibility of far-fetched conspiracy theories, I learned to voice my opinion. As I was introduced to different viewpoints, these moments challenged my understanding of the world around me. In my final entries from California, I find excitement to learn from others and increased confidence, a tool that would later allow me to impact my community.

“The beauty in a tower of cans” – June 2020

Returning my gaze to the stack of journals, I stretch to take the floral-patterned book sitting on top. I flip through, eventually finding the beginnings of the organization I created during the outbreak of COVID-19. Since then, Door-to-Door Deliveries has woven its way through my entries and into reality, allowing me to aid high-risk populations through free grocery delivery.

With the confidence I gained the summer before, I took action when seeing others in need rather than letting my shyness hold me back. I reached out to local churches and senior centers to spread word of our services and interacted with customers through our website and social media pages. To further expand our impact, we held two food drives, and I mustered the courage to ask for donations door-to-door. In a tower of canned donations, I saw the value of reaching out to help others and realized my own potential to impact the world around me.

I delicately close the journal in my hands, smiling softly as the memories reappear, one after another. Reaching under my bed, I pull out a fresh notebook and open to its first sheet. I lightly press my pen to the page, “And so begins the next chapter…”

The structuring of this essay makes it easy and enjoyable to read. The student effectively organizes their various life experiences around their tower of journals, which centers the reader and makes the different stories easy to follow. Additionally, the student engages quotes from their journals—and unique formatting of the quotes—to signal that they are moving in time and show us which memory we should follow them to.

Thematically, the student uses the idea of shyness to connect the different memories they draw out of their journals. As the student describes their experiences overcoming shyness at the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes and Door-to-Door Deliveries, this essay can be read as an Overcoming Obstacles essay.

At the end of this essay, readers are fully convinced that this student is dedicated (they have committed to journaling every day), thoughtful (journaling is a thoughtful process and, in the essay, the student reflects thoughtfully on the past), and motivated (they flew across the country for a summer program and started a business). These are definitely qualities admissions officers are looking for in applicants!

Although this essay is already exceptionally strong as it’s written, the first journal entry feels out of place compared to the other two entries that discuss the author’s shyness and determination. It works well for the essay to have an entry from when the student was younger to add some humor (with misspelled words) and nostalgia, but if the student had either connected the quote they chose to the idea of overcoming a fear present in the other two anecdotes or if they had picked a different quote all together related to their shyness, it would have made the entire essay feel more cohesive.

Where to Get Your Personal Statement Edited

Do you want feedback on your personal statement? 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!

Next Step: Supplemental Essays

Essay Guides for Each School

How to Write a Stellar Extracurricular Activity College Essay

4 Tips for Writing a Diversity College Essay

How to Write the “Why This College” Essay

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

who am i essay example for college students

Home | Life | Personality | Who Am I

Who Am I Essay Examples and Papers

15 essay samples on this topic, essay examples, essay topics, who am i: good leader analytical essay.

Character Traits

Leadership Styles

Who Am I and How I Change Personal Essay

Personality Traits

I Am an Only Child

Who am i: my dreaming future.

High School

Who Am I in Three Words

Personal Identity

Who I Want to Be Review

Educational And Career Goals

Who Am I: My Diploma Education

Higher Education

I Am Similar to My Father Personal Essay

Personality

Who Am I? When Identity is Defined by Grades

I am a new student.

Check a list of useful topics on Who Am I selected by experts

Topics and ideas for Who Am I

I love my parents a lot. I idolise my father who is a doctor.

I want to become a doctor and save people’s lives when I grow up.

I believe I am an empathetic and compassionate person.

Like every human being, I have a few bad habits like short temper and biting my nails.

I am a hard worker and listen to my parents and teachers every time.

I love reading poetry and playing the guitar in my free time.

So, who am I?

How to Understand Who You Are?

How can I be myself when I don’t know who I am?

A place where you would like to live your whole life.

Works of art you admire.

The job of your dream.

Your biggest disappointment.

Books that made a great impression on you.

What annoys you?

Your family traditions.

Are you addicted to technology?

What could you live without?

Why are you concerned about environmental issues?

How much money do you need for happiness?

What does your ethnic identity mean to you?

Significance of personal growth.

A place you try to avoid

When a friend let you down

An event that changed your life

A special encounter with an animal

A time when you felt out of place

information

Do you have issues with expressing yourself in a written format? This website offers a great selection of papers for college students required to write a who am I essay. Even if you know yourself well, creating a decent self-reflective text is a task for a proficient writer with a good understanding of text structure. Here you can find the most appropriate who am I essay example that will help you create a great text. On this page, you will get ideas on how to describe personal goals, sources of inspiration, and views on the surrounding world.

There are papers on political views, personal philosophy, and even mundane priorities. Surely, writing about one’s personality is completely individual, but such samples bring some great ideas on how to structure the who am I college essay, format it, and write it in an understandable and comprehensive manner. This selection of works will help students to express themselves and provide definite answers to the most valuable questions about themselves.

Today we have more opportunities to live as our desires dictate. We more easily give up beliefs that limit us, we change our profession and social environment, we can choose our religion and political views. But the abundance of opportunities for self-actualization adds to doubts. What is truly mine in me? What is my authentic self?

Do an audit of your history

In order to say “I” rightly, we must understand and accept our family’s past and consciously take our place in it. The life situations we accept or reject become the building blocks of ourselves. And to become ourselves, we need to consciously choose what we feel is good about ourselves and get rid of what is painful.

Distinguish yourself from your social role

We may perceive ourselves mostly as a professional or, say, a mother of the family, as if we had locked ourselves into a single image. But during the day a person can be a worker and a friend, a parent and a spouse, sad and angry, loving and indifferent.

These states have to be constantly coordinated with each other. Wrong are those who think, “I have become myself and now I will remain so forever.

Keep evolving.

“This is who I am and I can’t help it,” “This is my character”-who among us hasn’t heard phrases like this? Sometimes we begin to believe that we are permanently formed, that all properties of our personality and character traits are unchangeable.

But having taken such a position, a person limits himself, he does not allow himself to move forward, to develop, and therefore fences off from himself. The way to self is constant development and change.

Be authentic in communication

Some people think that being yourself means telling literally everything about yourself and frankly telling others what you think of them. In fact, our job is to find consistency between our own thoughts and feelings and what we say to the other person.

If, when communicating, I understand what is meaningful to me, assume what is important to my interlocutor, consider the place and time of communication, I will be able to express my thoughts and feelings without violating the boundaries of the other.

How do I know who I am?

Acknowledge negative feelings..

Displaced memories, traumas, unconscious desires prevent us from being sincere. We do not admit them to myself, because we are unconsciously afraid of their destructive power. But if we work with them by studying ourselves, we begin to communicate differently with others.

This enriches and simplifies our lives: it allows us to experience feelings more vividly, to talk more freely about ourselves and our desires, and at the same time removes the heavy need to pretend or to embellish ourselves.

Determine your limits

Realizing that there is something we can’t do, don’t want to do, or don’t have time to do, we experience strong and not always pleasant emotions, but as a result we begin to understand ourselves much better.

See yourself from the outside.

It is important to distinguish the inner feeling, which makes it clear: we are now playing a role or living our own life. Each of us has an “other-as-us” who helps us notice and relate our feelings, thoughts, and actions to one another.

This other is not an overseer or evaluating intellectual. Rather, it can be likened to a kind of angel, one who carefully draws us to ourselves.

Videos about Who Am I

  • Who am I? A philosophical inquiry – Amy Adkins

2. Who Am I?

3. I am a champion – the greatest speech ever [ENG SUB]

Interesting infographics about Who Am I

  • Benefits of positive thinking

Benefits of positive thinking

2. Self-Inquiry: Who Am I?

Self-Inquiry: Who Am I?

3. Who Am I? – Data Scientist

Who Am I? - Data Scientist

Hi! Peter is on the line!

Don't settle for a cookie-cutter essay. Receive a tailored piece that meets your specific needs and requirements.

Student Essays

Who Am I Essay For High School & College Level Students

11 Who Am I Essays – Examples Essays & Writing Guide [ 2024 ]

There are billions of people on this planet earth. Of India, there are millions. Everyone person is very different from one another.

No one is similar or identical to others. We can say, everyone possess different natural, physical, psychological traits.

As, the people are different so are the ideas, values, beliefs, cultures and orientations. That’s why everyone is different. I myself can know best Who am I? what are is my life philosophy?

What I think, read, and what goals I cherish? Following are the sample essays on Who Am I? These example who am I essays would help you best in understanding the real meaning and purpose of your life.

These Short & Long Essays on topic Who Am I, are quite helpful for high school & College level students. We have added quotes, info graphics and pictures for easy understanding with additional guide how to write who am I essay for students.

Essay on Who Am I? For College  Students (1000 words)

I am a boy who has just landed into the teenage. While entering into the college, I am full with ideas, energy and optimism within myself. I love myself and the whole that surrounds me.

I am the one who loves to be surrounded or be in the company of productive and progressive hardworking people. For all of these, the credit entirely goes to my family.

To begin with, I live in a joint family system. We have six people in our family in total; my grand parents, father, mother and my younger sister. We are a loving family. We love to celebrate the success, joys, and laughter on every occasion.

Be it our birthdays, religious festivals or the family functions, we love to take pride in going ahead in full celebrations. My family is my true inspiration. Our house, in fact, the center of activity, filled with guests, sharing smiles and happiness always.

The weekend and the holiday are just the moments of fun, pride and happiness. I am what, is all but because of my family. My who am I philosophy is entirely due the contribution of my family.

But before going further, let me introduce you to each and every member of my family. Because, my goals, ambition, ideas, philosophy of life etc is all constructed upon our family values.

My Grand Father: to begin with, my grandfather is extremely loving, caring, kind and cheerful persons. He is the real foundation stone of raising my father to a successful person of today. He, in fact, supports me as well as my younger sister.

My grandfather has been a visionary, struggling and committed person. He comes from a part of subcontinent that now is the part of Pakistan. He was raised in Lahore. After partition happened he left all along with his parents and settled here at Delhi.

How he managed to survive and come through those hard days of life, is a true inspiration for all of us. He entertains us by telling us his real life stories.

My Grandmother; Our grandmother is really wonderful lady. In fact, she has been the real support to our grandfather, in all the hard days of life.

She is sweet, entertaining and has a good sense of humor. That’s to say, she entertains we all by her humors insights and life stories. We all really enjoy her company.

My Mother; I am really thankful to God to have blessed me such a good, sweet and loving mother. My mother is careful, disciplined and courageous woman. She is, in fact, the doctor.

Apart from giving time to the clinic, treating patients with due diligence, she fulfills house responsibility as well. My mother is the real inspiration for us.

From her, we have learned the importance of time, value, discipline, and commitment. She is the practical example of success and commitment for us. She gives her time to us as well, assisting us in our studies, homework.

My Father; Like our mother, my father is also a strict and well disciplined person. My father manages his own business and  loves discipline, sincerity and hard work in life. He nurtures the values of bravery, honesty, hospitality and human service.

My father also participate in social activities apart from managing his own business. He supervises a charity based school and a hospital. Along with my mother, he looks after affairs hospital and the school, by his time and financial contribution.

My Sister; My sister has entirely taken face of my mother. That’s why, out of fun we all call her our mother. She is really a genius piece of nature.

Apart, she has the humorous nature. She makes us laugh by her talks. Apart, she loves to serve our family guest as well. She has the keen interest in cooking, along with studies.

Who Am I because of My Family

It is quite right to believe that the environment impacts your personality. Whatever you are is truly because of the people you are surrounded with. This entirely stands true for me.

Whenever, I look at myself I remember my sweet family. My Grandparents, my mother, father and my sweet sister. The values like discipline, time management, sincerity to purpose etc, have been ingrained into my nature.

My mother has always taught me sincerity and commitment, to my father I look for time management and sincerity to purpose, and to my grandparents, as symbols of struggles and optimism. My sister is the icon of our whole family.

She is the embodiment of love, laughter, joy and peace. I love my and I am extremely thankful to God to have blessed me with such a nice, wonderful and loving family, I am proud of being part of it.

My Goals & My Life Philosophy:

To stand clear, my real purpose of life is the service of humanity. I have seen my family taking care of other, doing maximum. Like my mother and father, apart from professional responsibility, they love to share their time and finance in social responsibilities.

My mother look after a charity hospital, gives her time there. My father looks after the affairs of a charity school. Though my professional goals to be an IT expert. I love computing and coding. But, from social point of view I love to contribute to the good of my society as well.

Defining one’s own-self is really important. One has to be clear in one’s life for his purpose, values, goals and commitment. It gives us a goals and path to work hard and achieve what we aspire in our lives.

Who Am I Essay for High School Students (500+ words)

I am loving, kind-hearten and caring fellow. I am a social person. My personality treats like helping others, has always helped me with bundles of friends to my side. I prefer others; I love to help the fellows of my society and my community.

To this end, I am also the active member of social organizations of my area. Though, it is really wonderful to serve others but, it also cost your personal time. You have very little time left for your own-self and your immediate family as well.

Realizing this, i am trying to maintain a balance between social service and family commitment. And I recognizes that the excess of anything is really bad.

Who am I ; I am very Social

Helping others is however, is very well appreciated. One feels happy, elated and cheerful always. Happiness can be practically experienced whenever, you help others, you realize the smile on their faces and prayers from their hearts.

Help a poor getting admission into a school, assist anybody financially or solving other problems you will truly feel the warmth of happiness inside. I do to the best of my extent to spread smiles and happiness all around.

Sometimes, my friend wonder why I have been so serious in helping others. This all, in fact, I can relate to my grandfather. My grandfather has been a renowned person of my area in helping other in whatever cost.

My this habit of helping others in excess has, to some extent, brought problems for me. I help my fellow students as well. For example, I help students in explaining and assisting in different subjects, I share my notes even if the second day of exam! I can’t deny anyone for any help.

In other ways, I share my lunch, pocket money, books etc with one who need! Sometimes, it brings troubles for me as well! Like you shared your notes with others and the same your received torn and in unwell condition!

You share your stationary etc with others and you receive in broken condition! I have learned, from here, that for helping other you have to be strong. You have to face the troubles and hardship from helping others, sometimes

What Am I is to help others;

As regards of my helping nature, I sometimes face difficult times. Sometimes, I couldn’t manage my time. My studies and my health sometimes gets impacted. This makes my mother nervous sometimes. My family, though, praises me for my sincerity and helping others.

But along with it, my mother has taught to keep a balance between family time and social time. And, lately I have realized this. I believe that, when you help others, you can’t end all the woes of others.

Problems are there to stay in this world. When we help others, in fact we are contributing a little and to our own extent in minimizing the hardships of others.

Someone has rightly said, “You can’t pour from an empty cup”. That means you have take care of yourself first.

I have realized the importance of self. And I have been trying to keep up a balance between family responsibilities and social responsibilities. My mother, in this regard, has been a real inspiration.

I am the person who loves to share love, laughter and happiness in life. I am extremely thankful whatever I have got in my life.

Who am I Essay 200 Words:

As a student, one of the most common questions we are asked is “Who am I?” It seems like such a simple question, but it can be quite complex to answer. After all, who we are is constantly evolving as we grow and experience new things.

At our core, we are all unique individuals with our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. We are shaped by our family, friends, culture, and society. We are also influenced by our passions, interests, and ambitions.

But who we are is not just defined by these external factors. Our personality, values, and beliefs also play a significant role in shaping our identity. These traits are often ingrained within us from a young age and continue to develop throughout our lives.

They are what make us who we are and guide our actions and decisions.

In addition, our experiences also shape who we are. From successes and failures to challenges and triumphs, every experience teaches us something new about ourselves. It is through these experiences that we discover our strengths, weaknesses, and potential.

So when someone asks “Who am I?”, the answer may not be simple, but it is a reflection of all these elements: our individuality, external influences, personality, values and beliefs, and experiences. As we continue to grow and evolve, the answer to this question will also evolve. Embrace who you are and never stop discovering more about yourself. So who am I? I am a constantly evolving individual with a unique combination of experiences, traits, and values that make me who I am. And the same goes for you – so never stop exploring your identity and all that makes you wonderfully unique.

Short Essay on Who Am I?

Hi there! My name is [insert name] and I am in Class 2. Today, I want to share with you a little bit about who I am.

First things first, my name! As I mentioned before, my name is [insert your name]. Do you know what your name means? My name means [insert name meaning] and I think it suits me perfectly!

Next, let’s talk about my family. My family is the most important part of my life. I have [insert number] members in my family including my parents, grandparents, siblings, and pets. They are always there for me no matter what and I love them very much.

Nowadays, everyone has a lot of responsibilities and so do I. But in my free time, I love to do [insert hobbies]. It makes me happy and helps me relax after a long day at school. What are your favorite hobbies?

As a Class 2 student, I have big dreams for my future. When I grow up, I want to be a [insert dream job]. It may seem impossible now, but I believe that with hard work and determination, I can achieve my dreams.

Lastly, I have some people who inspire me and whom I look up to. They are my idols. One of them is [insert name], who is a famous [insert profession/career]. I admire their hard work, talent, and kindness. Who are your idols?

Well, that’s a little bit about who I am. I hope you enjoyed getting to know me better. But remember, who we are is not just defined by our name, family or hobbies but also by our actions and how we treat others. Let’s always strive to be kind, hardworking and follow our dreams. Thank you for listening!

Who am I Motivational Speech:

Hey there, students! I’m so glad you all could join me today. Today, I want to talk to you about one of the most powerful and important questions we can ask ourselves: Who am I? It’s a question that has been asked by countless people throughout history, and it’s a question that each and every one of you will continue to ask yourselves as you grow and learn.

So, who am I? Well, on the surface, it’s easy to define ourselves by our names, our ages, where we come from, or what we look like. And while those things are a part of who we are, they don’t fully define us. See, at our core, we are all unique individuals with different dreams, passions, and experiences. And that’s what makes us special.

As students, you all have an incredible opportunity to discover who you are and who you want to be. You get to explore different subjects, try new activities, and make lasting connections with people from all walks of life. This is a time for growth and self-discovery, so embrace it!

But I know that sometimes, it can be hard to figure out who we are. We may feel pressure from society, our families, or even ourselves to fit into a certain mold. But I’m here to tell you that there is no one right way to be you. You have the power and freedom to create your own path and define yourself on your own terms.

And that’s where the importance of self-reflection comes in. Take some time to think about what truly makes you happy, what your values are, and what you want to achieve in life. These are all important aspects of who you are, and by understanding them, you can better navigate your journey towards self-discovery.

But don’t be afraid to make mistakes along the way. In fact, embrace them! It’s through our failures that we learn and grow the most. And remember, no one has it all figured out. We are all constantly evolving and discovering new things about ourselves.

So, my dear students, as you continue on your academic journey and beyond, never forget to ask yourselves “Who am I?” Keep exploring, keep learning, and always stay true to yourself. Because who you are is an amazing and unique individual, capable of achieving great things. Thank you

I am the best Essay:

As much as we may try to hide it, most of us have a deep-seated desire to be the best at something. Whether it’s in sports, academics, or even just among our friends and family, being the best gives us an incredible sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

But what does it truly mean to be the best? Is it about winning every competition or scoring the highest grades? Is it about being praised and admired by others? Or is it something more personal, like being true to our own abilities and constantly striving for improvement?

The truth is, being the best isn’t just about external validation or comparing ourselves to others. It’s about setting goals for ourselves and working hard towards them, regardless of what anyone else may think.

It’s about having the drive and determination to push ourselves beyond our limits, and the resilience to bounce back from failures.

Being the best also means acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses, and using both to our advantage. It’s about being confident in our abilities, but humble enough to continue learning and growing. It’s about never settling for mediocrity, but always striving for excellence.

So, why do I believe I am the best? Because I have these qualities and more. I may not always come out on top, but I never give up. I constantly push myself to be better in all aspects of my life, and am always open to learning new things.

Who am I Identity Essay:

As human beings, we all have a unique identity that sets us apart from everyone else. Our identity is formed by our experiences, beliefs, values, and relationships. It is what makes us who we are as individuals.

But when someone asks the question “Who am I?”, it’s not always an easy answer. We often struggle to define ourselves and understand our own identities. And as students, this question can be even more challenging to answer.

As we embark on our educational journey, we are constantly bombarded with expectations and pressures from society, family, and peers. We are told what classes to take, what careers to pursue, and how to behave. It’s easy to get lost in all these external influences and forget who we truly are.

But it’s important to remember that our identities are not defined by others. They are unique to each and every one of us. It’s up to us to discover who we are and embrace it.

One way to start understanding our identity is by reflecting on our experiences and how they have shaped us. Our past, present, and future all play a role in defining who we are. We should take the time to reflect on our beliefs, values, and passions and think about what truly makes us happy.

It’s also important to recognize that our identities can change over time. As students, we are constantly growing and learning new things. What may have defined us in the past might not be relevant in the future. And that’s okay. Our identities are fluid and we should embrace the growth and change that comes with it.

Furthermore, our relationships also play a significant role in shaping our identity. The people we surround ourselves with can influence our thoughts, beliefs, and values. It’s important to choose relationships that align with our true selves and support us in becoming the best version of ourselves.

In conclusion, while it may not be easy to answer the question “Who am I?”, it’s a journey worth taking. As students, we have the opportunity to explore and discover our true identities. We should embrace our uniqueness and use it as a guide in shaping our future.

I am Proud to be a Girl Essay:

Being a girl is something to be proud of. We are strong, resilient and capable individuals who have contributed immensely to the growth and development of our society. As a young girl, I have always been taught that my gender does not define my capabilities or limit my potential. This has instilled in me a sense of pride and confidence in being a girl.

One reason why I am proud to be a girl is the strength that we possess. We may appear physically weaker than men, but our inner strength and resilience are unmatched. We have faced countless challenges and obstacles throughout history, yet we continue to rise and overcome them. This strength is not limited to physical or emotional abilities but also in our intellect and determination.

Moreover, as girls, we have the power to make a positive impact in our communities. Whether it is through education, healthcare or advocacy, we have the ability to bring about real change and improve the lives of those around us. From leading social movements to creating groundbreaking inventions, girls have proven time and again that they are capable of changing the world.

I am also proud to be a girl because of the unity and support that exists among us. Despite the societal pressures and expectations placed upon us, girls have always stood together, empowering and uplifting one another. The bond between girls is strong, and it is a beautiful thing to witness.

In conclusion, being a girl comes with its own set of challenges, but these challenges only make us stronger and more resilient. I am proud to be a girl, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that being a girl has brought me. Let us continue to celebrate our strengths, support one another, and break barriers as we pave the way for future generations of girls to come. So let’s embrace who we are and be proud of our unique identity as girls!

I am a Friendly Person Essay:

As a friendly person, I believe in the power of kindness and positivity. Being friendly is not just about being polite or courteous, it’s about genuinely caring for others and making them feel valued. Growing up, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by people who taught me the importance of being kind and approachable.

One of the main reasons why I strive to be a friendly person is because I have experienced firsthand how a simple smile or kind gesture can make someone’s day. Whether it’s helping a stranger with their groceries, giving compliments to a friend, or simply being there to listen, small acts of kindness can have a big impact on someone’s life.

Being friendly also means being open-minded and accepting of others. It’s about embracing diversity and seeing the beauty in our differences. By fostering a friendly environment, we can create a sense of belonging and unity among people from different backgrounds.

In today’s fast-paced world, where everyone seems to be caught up in their own lives, being friendly is more important than ever. It helps us build meaningful connections with others and spreads positivity in our communities. As they say, “kindness is contagious” and by being a friendly person, we can inspire others to do the same.

In conclusion, I am proud to be a friendly person and I will continue to spread kindness wherever I go. Whether it’s through simple acts of compassion or creating a welcoming environment for those around me, I believe that being friendly is key to building a happier and more connected society. So let’s all strive to be a little friendlier and make the world a better place, one smile at a time.

How to Write an Essay on Who Am I:

  • Start with self-reflection: Before you begin writing, take some time to reflect on your own thoughts, experiences, and values. This will help you understand who you are and what makes you unique.
  • Brainstorm ideas: Make a list of your strengths, weaknesses, accomplishments, challenges, and other significant events in your life. These can serve as starting points for your essay.
  • Be honest and authentic: Your essay should reflect your true self, so be genuine and don’t exaggerate or fabricate any details. Admissions officers can see right through insincere writing.
  • Use a unique angle: Instead of following a template or structure, think outside the box and find a creative way to tell your story. This will make your essay stand out and make a lasting impression.
  • Show, don’t tell: Rather than simply stating facts or characteristics about yourself, use anecdotes, examples, and vivid descriptions to paint a picture of who you are. This makes for a more engaging and memorable essay.
  • Connect with the reader: A good who am I essay should not only tell your story but also connect with the reader on a personal level. Share your thoughts, emotions, and lessons learned to create a deeper connection.
  • Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable: It takes courage to open up and share your vulnerabilities, but it can also make for a powerful essay. Admissions officers want to see the real you, flaws and all.
  • Use descriptive language: Avoid using generic or overused words and phrases. Instead, use specific and descriptive language to bring your story to life and make it more compelling.
  • Edit and proofread carefully: Don’t rush the writing process or leave editing until the last minute. Take the time to revise, edit, and proofread your essay multiple times to ensure it is error-free and well-crafted.
  • Get feedback from others: Before submitting your essay, ask for feedback from trusted friends, family members, or teachers. They can provide valuable insights and help you make any necessary improvements.

These tips can serve as a guide to writing a successful who am I essay, but remember that there is no one right way to do it. The most important thing is to be true to yourself and let your unique voice shine through in your writing. Good luck!

I am truly thankful to my family and my friend for standing beside me in all my endeavors. And I believe, social work is the collective work. I give credit of all to my family and my friends.

[lazy-load-videos-and-sticky-control id=”m5kR7TPAkSw”]

Why I am here Essay For Students

Why am I here? This thought strikes the minds of many people. To some life is the merriment, joy, and self service only. Whereas, others hold a contrary view. Being a responsible person of society, I hold different view.

To me, life is full of meanings. It is laden with responsibilities, goals and commitments. I believe, I am here because of multiple reasons. That’s to say, I have certain values, beliefs and commitments to share.

Why I am here because of following goals;

  • Helping others.
  • Serving my family & My Parents
  • Serving my Country.

The short life that we have got here, has a lot of works to be done. Quite often, people get perplexed at why they are here and what was the meaning and purpose of life. Sometimes they spend years in ignorance and refusing to accept the real purpose of life.

In most of the cases, people realize the real purpose of their lives in very late. You might have observed the people who get very old or when they retired from professional life, then they turn towards the social service!

Though it is encouraged and very good but in fact, these thing one should from the very start. As it is accepted fact that we are social animals. We can’t live in isolation.

Therefore, more than wealth we need health, more than material needs, we need inner peace and more the extra achievements we need contented life, a purposeful and happy life. As, the life is for fulfillment, enjoyments, achievements, value, purpose and social service.

Related Essays:

  • About Myself Essay
  • Myself Introduction

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Home / Essay Samples / Life / Who Am I / The Who Am I Reflection: A Journey of Self-Discovery

The Who Am I Reflection: A Journey of Self-Discovery

  • Category: Sociology , Life
  • Topic: Personal Qualities , Who Am I

Pages: 1 (467 words)

Views: 3976

  • Downloads: -->

--> ⚠️ Remember: This essay was written and uploaded by an--> click here.

Found a great essay sample but want a unique one?

are ready to help you with your essay

You won’t be charged yet!

Humanity Essays

Adversity Essays

Hope Essays

Empathy Essays

Inspiration Essays

Related Essays

We are glad that you like it, but you cannot copy from our website. Just insert your email and this sample will be sent to you.

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service  and  Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Your essay sample has been sent.

In fact, there is a way to get an original essay! Turn to our writers and order a plagiarism-free paper.

samplius.com uses cookies to offer you the best service possible.By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .--> -->