My college essay was designed to go on my common application and will be used to apply to colleges with. The main idea is a well written essay where you want to get across growth, stability, challenges, and vulnerability to the admissions counselors. This way they can see who you are, and make the decision of whether or not you're a good fit for their school. I believe this essay reflects Self-Directional skills, as I did it completely on my own. It was not part of a school assignment, simply something I needed to keep track of in order to apply to the schools I want to get into. I self-monitored and goal set for myself, so I'd end up in a good position for my early application. I am extremely proud of this essay. I think it is well written, follows the prompt accordingly, expresses my emotions, opinions, and perseverance, my vulnerability, and my growth. I can't choose a certain part I am most proud of, because I truly do love this essay and love each piece of it. I developed my 21st century skill by getting it completely done before my application was due, and then submitting my application. If it weren't for my own desire and understanding that I needed to get it done, I would've never applied to the college I did. I think the most difficult part was editing it. Both of the teachers who read over it told me it needs some sort of growth or showing of being better. I have a hard time with happy endings in my writing, and I always find them to be cheesy. Writing the actual essay was easy, I just sat down and all the words fell out of me, but editing it to make it more consumable for my audience was difficult. This relates to everything I have worked for. My entire high school career has been all leading up to this one essay, my college admissions, and my success. The writing style I believe comes from my English 100 class however. My teacher taught me to write like I am living the experience, rather than to write blatantly. Instead of "I am cold", it turns into "As the wind starts to pick up, my blonde arm hair stands up. I tucked each of my freckled hands under my elbows as a means to keep warm". I can apply this knowledge to future admissions if I don't end up getting into the school I have applied for!