As one of the most selective universities in the nation, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) requires applicants to showcase their unique perspectives through compelling supplemental essays. With an acceptance rate hovering around 5.8%, the pressure to stand out is immense. Your essays are not just a formality; they are a chance to reveal your authenticity and passion, helping you connect with the admissions team on a personal level.
Navigating the supplemental essay prompts can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can transform this challenge into an opportunity for self-expression. By understanding the core themes and showcasing your genuine experiences, you can craft essays that not only resonate with readers but also reflect your true self. Throughout this guide, you’ll find practical strategies and insightful examples to illuminate your writing process, empowering you to present an authentic narrative that sets you apart from other candidates. So, let’s embark on this journey to create essays that leave a lasting impression!
Understanding UPenn’s Essay Prompts for 2023
Understanding the nuances of UPenn’s essay prompts is crucial for crafting compelling supplemental essays that resonate with the admissions committee. Each prompt is designed to unveil different facets of your personality, interests, and aspirations, providing a window into who you are beyond grades and test scores. By thoughtfully engaging with these prompts, you can showcase your individuality and how you would contribute to the vibrant campus community.
To start, carefully read each prompt, focusing on key phrases and what they seek to uncover. For example, if a prompt asks about your intellectual interests, reflect not just on your chosen field of study but also on how these interests intersect with UPenn’s unique resources and culture. This involves linking your academic passions to specific faculty members, programs, or initiatives at UPenn, which demonstrates both your enthusiasm and preparedness to join their academic community.
Additionally, consider using a structured approach to dissect each prompt. Begin by brainstorming ideas that align with the themes of the prompt. Create a mind map to connect your experiences, values, and aspirations. As you generate ideas, ask yourself how these experiences shaped your worldview and how they can illustrate why you are a good fit for UPenn. Incorporating anecdotes can deepen your narrative and make your essay more relatable, allowing the committee to see the human experience behind your application.
Ultimately, the goal is to portray a cohesive narrative that reflects your authentic self. Be candid in your responses, avoiding clichés and generalized statements. Instead, offer specific and personal insights that reveal how your background, experiences, and future ambitions align with the mission and values of UPenn. This level of introspection not only enriches your essays but also sets you apart as a candidate who is genuinely interested in becoming part of the UPenn community.
Crafting Your Personal Narrative for UPenn
Crafting a compelling personal narrative for your UPenn supplemental essays is not just about recounting experiences; it’s about weaving those experiences into a story that reflects who you are at your core. A strong personal narrative captivates the admissions committee and offers insights into your character, aspirations, and how you envision contributing to the UPenn community. The key lies in authenticity-presenting a genuine representation of yourself while aligning with the values and culture that UPenn embodies.
Start by reflecting on formative experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider moments of challenge, achievement, or personal growth, and how they have influenced your perspective and ambitions. These reflections can serve as anchor points in your narrative, allowing you to build outwards. One effective method is to use storytelling techniques-setting the scene, portraying emotions, and illustrating your thought process during these pivotal moments. This approach brings your narrative to life and enables the reader to connect with your journey on a deeper level.
Another critical element is to demonstrate your connection to UPenn’s unique environment. Research the university’s programs, values, and community aspects that resonate with you. This information can guide how you align your personal narrative with UPenn’s ethos. For example, if you have a passion for interdisciplinary studies, illustrate how this aligns with UPenn’s commitment to blending diverse fields of study. Use specific examples from your past to highlight your motivations and how they mesh with your future goals at UPenn.
Finally, as you draft your narrative, remember to maintain clarity and focus. Outlining your essay can help structure your thoughts effectively. Start with a compelling introduction, follow with body paragraphs that explore your experiences and connections to UPenn, and conclude with a powerful closing statement that encapsulates your aspirations. By presenting your authentic self through thoughtful storytelling and clear connections to the university, you create a narrative that is both engaging and reflective of the best version of you. Embrace this process as an opportunity to share your unique story, and trust that your distinctive voice will resonate with the admissions committee.
Emphasizing Authenticity in Your Essays
Authenticity is the cornerstone of compelling supplemental essays, particularly when applying to a prestigious institution like UPenn. Admissions officers are not just evaluating your academic achievements; they are seeking to understand who you are as a person and what unique experiences you bring to the table. To weave authenticity into your essays, consider the following strategies.
First, reflect deeply on your personal experiences and passions. Think about the moments that have profoundly shaped you-these could be challenges you’ve overcome, meaningful relationships, or pivotal events that sparked your interest in a particular field. Authenticity comes from being true to your narrative; share your genuine thoughts and feelings about these experiences. For instance, rather than simply stating a desire to study biology, you might recount a formative experience in a lab where you encountered an unexpected result that shifted your perspective on scientific inquiry. By doing so, you not only showcase your passion but also reveal your ability to contextualize experiences in a meaningful way.
Connecting with UPenn’s Community
Showing how your authenticity aligns with UPenn’s culture is crucial. Research the university’s values, programs, and campus life, and identify the aspects that resonate with your identity and goals. If you value interdisciplinary education, reflect on previous experiences that demonstrate this belief in action, such as a project that combined art and science. By aligning your narrative with UPenn’s ethos, you establish a compelling reason for your choice of institution and demonstrate that you’re not just looking to attend any university, but specifically UPenn.
Additionally, incorporate elements of vulnerability into your essays. Sharing a moment of doubt or failure can be powerful, as it humanizes you and allows readers to empathize with your journey. Rather than presenting a perfect image, discussing how you adapted and learned from challenges highlights resilience and growth-qualities that are highly valued by admissions committees.
In conclusion, authenticity is not merely a stylistic choice in your writing; it is a fundamental aspect of effective storytelling. Embrace your individual voice, reflect on real experiences, and weave them together with your aspirations and the unique qualities of UPenn. This approach not only enriches your essays but also creates a genuine connection with the admissions committee, making a lasting impression that sets you apart.
Tips for Showcasing Your Unique Experiences
Crafting a compelling narrative that showcases your unique experiences can significantly enhance your UPenn supplemental essays. Admissions officers are eager to understand the distinct qualities that make you who you are, so it’s essential to present a rich tapestry of experiences that reveal your character, values, and aspirations. Start by identifying specific, pivotal moments in your life that have shaped your worldview. These could be achievements, challenges faced, or transformative experiences-think beyond academic accomplishments to personal anecdotes that reflect your journey.
To illustrate your unique perspective, consider using the SHOW, DON’T TELL technique. Instead of stating “I am passionate about community service,” share a vivid account of a particular project that impacted your community. Describe the interactions, the emotions felt, and the lessons learned. For instance, you might recount a time when you organized a local clean-up that not only improved the neighborhood but also fostered connections among residents. This detailed storytelling not only highlights your initiative but also paints a picture of your commitment to making a difference, which aligns well with UPenn’s values.
Highlight Specific Skills and Values
As you discuss your experiences, it’s valuable to tie them into specific skills or values that resonate with UPenn’s mission. Whether it’s perseverance, leadership, creativity, or curiosity, draw connections between your stories and these core traits. For example, if you faced setbacks while pursuing a sport, relate how this taught you resilience and the importance of teamwork. Discuss how these experiences have influenced your academic interests or future goals, making clear why UPenn is the perfect fit for you.
Don’t shy away from reflection; your unique experiences should lead to insights about your personal growth. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who demonstrate self-awareness and a willingness to learn. For instance, if a leadership role revealed not only your strengths but also your weaknesses, discussing both can provide a nuanced view of your character. This duality adds depth to your narrative and keeps the committee engaged.
In summary, showcasing your unique experiences effectively involves vivid storytelling, connecting your narrative to UPenn’s values, and including reflections on personal growth. By presenting your distinct journey in a relatable and authentic manner, you not only make your application stand out but also invite the admissions committee to see the person behind the metrics-something that is invaluable in a competitive admissions landscape.
How to Connect Your Values with UPenn’s Culture
Connecting your personal values with the culture at UPenn can create a compelling narrative that enhances your supplemental essays. The university is known for its commitment to entrepreneurial spirit, inclusiveness, and interdisciplinary learning. To effectively convey how your values align with UPenn’s culture, start by identifying what matters most to you-whether it’s innovation, community engagement, or intellectual curiosity. This foundational understanding will serve as a guide for articulating your motivations and aspirations.
To illustrate your connection with UPenn’s culture, consider the following approaches:
Draw on Specific Experiences
Reflect on your personal experiences that exemplify your values and how they resonate with UPenn’s environment. For example, if you value collaboration and teamwork, you might share an anecdote about a group project that deepened your understanding of diverse perspectives. Describe not just what you did, but also what you learned from your peers and how that experience shifted your thinking. If you have been involved in a community project, illustrate how that initiative reflects UPenn’s emphasis on social impact and community involvement.
Highlight University Values
Familiarize yourself with UPenn’s core values, such as innovation, rigor, inclusiveness, and interdisciplinary approach. When you write, weave these elements into your narrative. For instance, if you admire UPenn’s focus on innovation, share a specific instance where you demonstrated creativity in solving a problem-perhaps developing a new approach in a science fair project or leading a unique community event. Make sure to connect these experiences back to your vision for your future at UPenn, emphasizing what you intend to contribute to its culture.
Demonstrate Personal Growth
It’s important to reflect on how your values have evolved through your experiences and how they can flourish in the UPenn environment. Discuss moments of challenge or change, and articulate how these have shaped your aspirations. For instance, if you faced a setback that tested your resilience, share how overcoming that struggle has instilled in you a determination that aligns with UPenn’s rigorous educational setting. This reflection not only illustrates your character but also emphasizes your readiness to embrace the challenges and opportunities that UPenn offers.
By clearly linking your personal values to the rich cultural landscape of UPenn, you create a powerful narrative that showcases your strengths and intentions. This connection not only enriches your application but also demonstrates to admissions officers the depth of your understanding of-and commitment to-becoming a part of the UPenn community.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Supplemental Essays
Crafting a standout supplemental essay can be a daunting task, particularly when the stakes are high at a competitive institution like UPenn. With the right approach, avoiding common pitfalls can significantly enhance your narrative and make your application memorable. One of the most frequent mistakes students make is failing to directly address the specific prompts given by the admissions committee. Each question is crafted to elicit insights into your character and aspirations; thus, vague or off-topic responses can detract from your essay’s impact. Make sure to read the prompt carefully and keep your response focused and relevant.
Another common misstep is relying too heavily on clichés or generic statements. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, and yours should reflect your unique voice and experiences. Avoid phrases that could apply to any applicant, such as “I love to learn” or “I want to make a difference.” Instead, delve into your personal journey-specific experiences, challenges, and accomplishments that have shaped your identity. For instance, instead of stating your desire to “help others,” you could recount a specific volunteer experience that ignited your passion for service and how it aligns with UPenn’s community-focused values.
Additionally, many applicants overlook the importance of showcasing personal growth. Admissions committees appreciate candidates who reflect on their experiences and demonstrate how these have influenced their goals and values. Ensure that your narrative includes moments of challenge and success, illustrating not just what happened, but how it has contributed to your development as a person and a scholar. This reflection can be more captivating than simple recitation of achievements.
Lastly, technical errors can also undermine your essay’s clarity and professionalism. Always proofread your work for grammatical mistakes, awkward phrasing, and typos. Consider sharing your draft with teachers, friends, or family members for constructive feedback. They can provide valuable perspectives and may catch errors you’ve missed. Remember, a polished final draft not only showcases your writing skills but also conveys seriousness about your application. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can craft a compelling essay that reflects your authentic self and resonates with the admissions committee.
Using Feedback to Enhance Your Writing
Receiving constructive feedback can elevate your writing to new heights, particularly when crafting supplemental essays for a competitive institution like UPenn. Engaging others in the writing process not only introduces fresh perspectives but also helps you identify areas for improvement that you might have overlooked. Collaborating with peers, mentors, or experienced advisors can lead to insights that enhance both the clarity and impact of your narrative.
To leverage feedback effectively, consider these practical steps:
- Choose the Right Readers: Select individuals who know you well and understand your goals. They could be teachers, family members, or friends who can give personalized insights into your writing. Their familiarity with your journey can help them point out what resonates and what may need further development.
- Provide Clear Guidance: When asking for feedback, specify what you are looking for. Are you concerned about the overall structure, the clarity of your main idea, or the emotional impact of your story? Giving your readers a sense of what to focus on will lead to more useful and targeted feedback.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage a dialogue by posing questions such as, “What did you take away from this essay?” or “Which parts felt strongest to you?” This invites deeper analysis and can illuminate aspects of your writing that may require strengthening.
- Be Receptive: Approach critiques with an open mind. Remember that feedback is a tool to improve your writing, and it may sometimes challenge your assumptions. Embrace constructive criticism as a pathway to honing your voice and message.
Incorporating feedback doesn’t mean blindly making changes based on every suggestion. Evaluate the input you receive and determine what aligns best with your vision and voice. For instance, if a peer suggests reworking a section that feels circular, consider how to clarify your point without losing your personal flair. Additionally, upon receiving feedback, focus on areas that may not have been articulate or engaging enough. Use this opportunity to refine your thoughts and enhance your essay’s emotional resonance.
Ultimately, the goal is to produce an essay that not only showcases your unique experiences and character but also effectively connects with the values and culture of UPenn. Engaging others in your writing journey can provide the support and perspective you need to create a compelling narrative that stands out.
Outlining Your Essay for Clarity and Impact
To effectively convey your narrative in UPenn’s supplemental essays, a well-structured outline serves as your roadmap to clarity and impact. An outline not only organizes your thoughts but also ensures that each component of your essay contributes meaningfully to your overall message. This strategy can transform your writing process into a more focused and efficient endeavor.
Begin by identifying the central theme of your essay. What key message or experience do you want to communicate? A strong core idea will guide your outline. Start with a basic structure: Introduction, Body (with several key points), and Conclusion. Under each section, list specific details or anecdotes that support your theme. For example, if your core message revolves around resilience, outline experiences that exemplify challenges you’ve overcome.
Structured Approach
Utilize the following steps to create an effective outline:
- Introduction: Capture attention with a compelling hook. This could be a brief anecdote or quote that relates to your main theme.
- Body Paragraph 1: Present your first key point. Describe a specific experience, detailing the context and your emotional response.
- Body Paragraph 2: Introduce your second key point. Support this with another relevant anecdote, highlighting how it contributes to your narrative.
- Body Paragraph 3: Conclude the body with your final key point. This should circle back to your introduction, reinforcing the importance of your theme.
- Conclusion: Wrap up with a reflective statement that connects your experiences to your aspirations at UPenn. Emphasize how your unique background aligns with the university’s values.
As you outline, refrain from getting bogged down in perfect phrasing. Instead, focus on the flow of your ideas. This preliminary structure allows you to visualize how each part interacts and supports your main argument, which can significantly enhance the coherence of your final draft. Once your outline feels solid, proceed to fill in the sections with complete sentences and transitions, ensuring that your writing evolves organically from your initial framework.
By outlining effectively, you simplify the writing process and strength your ability to communicate authentically. This clarity helps admissions officers easily understand your journey, making your supplemental essays memorable and impactful.
Editing Techniques for a Polished Final Draft
The path to a compelling final draft of your UPenn supplemental essay lies in the editing phase, where clarity and coherence are refined into polished storytelling. This crucial step transforms raw thoughts into impactful narratives that resonate with admissions committees. An effective strategy is to first step back from your work for a short period, allowing you to approach the text with fresh eyes. This distance can help you identify areas for improvement that may have gone unnoticed in the initial drafting stages.
Begin the editing process by reviewing your essay for overall coherence and structure. Ask yourself if your main message is clear and whether the progression from one idea to the next feels natural. It can be helpful to outline your essay again, this time with a focus on the flow of your arguments. Make sure that each paragraph contributes to your overall thesis and that your transitions between ideas are smooth. If a paragraph feels out of place or disjointed, consider restructuring it or merging it with another section to maintain cohesion.
Once the structural elements are in place, dive into the details. Pay close attention to language and style. Use active voice whenever possible to create a more engaging reading experience. Replace vague language with specific details that illustrate your points vividly. For instance, instead of saying, “I learned a lot from my experience,” you might say, “Leading a team project taught me invaluable lessons about collaboration and conflict resolution.” Additionally, check for any overused phrases or clichés that can detract from your unique voice.
After addressing clarity and engagement, focus on the technical aspects of your writing. This includes grammar, punctuation, and spelling-elements that can easily be overlooked but are vital for a polished presentation. Utilize tools like grammar checkers or enlist someone else to proofread your work, as a fresh set of eyes can catch errors you might have missed. Lastly, read your essay aloud. Hearing the words can reveal awkward phrasing and ensure that your voice remains authentic and engaging throughout.
By integrating these editing techniques, your UPenn supplemental essays can evolve from drafts into captivating narratives that effectively showcase who you are and why you belong at the University of Pennsylvania.
Highlighting Your Academic and Extracurricular Strengths
When applying to UPenn, showcasing your academic and extracurricular strengths can be a game-changer. Admissions committees are not only looking for stellar grades but also for applicants who demonstrate passion, resilience, and leadership outside the classroom. This blend of academic prowess and diverse interests paints a fuller picture of who you are, making your application stand out in a crowded field.
Begin by highlighting your academic achievements, but do so in a way that emphasizes your unique approach to learning. Instead of merely listing awards or impressive GPAs, tell a story that illustrates your intellectual curiosity. For instance, if you conducted a research project on a topic that fascinated you, share what sparked that interest, the challenges you faced, and the skills you developed through the process. This narrative approach gives depth to your achievements and allows the admissions committee to see your character and determination.
Extracurricular Engagement
Equally important is how you present your extracurricular activities. Rather than simply enumerating clubs or sports, connect these experiences to personal growth and values. For example, if you were captain of a debate team, reflect on how this role taught you about teamwork and strategic thinking. You might say, “Leading my high school debate team not only honed my public speaking skills but also reinforced my belief in the power of reasoned dialogue, which I aim to foster at UPenn through active participation in campus discussions.” This connection shows how your experiences have shaped your aspirations and aligns with UPenn’s collaborative culture.
Additionally, consider including a diversity of experiences that reflects your interests beyond academics. This could include volunteer work, internships, or individual projects. Each of these should be woven into your narrative to highlight your versatility and commitment to making a difference, both locally and globally. If you organized a community service project, describe the impact it had on you and the community. Use vivid details to illustrate your initiative and the skills you gained-a powerful way to resonate with UPenn’s values.
Remember, the goal is to craft a cohesive narrative that not just lists your strengths but illustrates how they define you as a candidate. By thoughtfully integrating your academic achievements and extracurricular experiences, you can present a compelling argument for why you would thrive at the University of Pennsylvania.
Incorporating Personal Growth into Your Applications
Demonstrating personal growth in your application is essential for standing out in a competitive admissions process like that at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). Admissions committees are keenly interested in not just what you have accomplished, but how those experiences have shaped you as a person. Integrating reflections on your journey allows for a more nuanced portrayal of your character and potential contributions to the campus community.
To illustrate personal growth effectively, focus on pivotal moments in your life that challenged you and led to significant learning experiences. Choose a particular event-perhaps a setback in a competition, a mentoring experience, or a community service project-that prompted you to reflect deeply and prompted change. For instance, if you faced difficulties in a science fair project, instead of simply stating you overcame challenges, delve into what that experience taught you about resilience, collaboration, or the scientific process itself. Highlight specific skills or insights gained; these details breathe life into your narrative and allow reviewers to connect with your growth authentically.
Additionally, it’s beneficial to connect your growth to your aspirations for attending UPenn. Reflect on how these experiences prepare you to engage with the UPenn community and contribute to its vibrant culture. You may want to articulate how a leadership role in your school’s environmental club fostered your passion for sustainability and inform your plans to participate in similar initiatives at UPenn. This not only shows that you have thought critically about your experiences but also illustrates a proactive approach to your future involvement on campus.
Incorporating personal growth effectively means intertwining your stories with reflections on who you were, who you are now, and who you aspire to be. By doing so, you create an authentic and engaging narrative that will resonate with the admissions committee, showcasing your journey as a continuous progression of learning and self-discovery.
Resources for Further Essay Writing Help
Finding the right resources to enhance your essay writing can dramatically impact your chances of success in the competitive admissions landscape. Equipped with the right tools and guidance, you can craft compelling narratives that showcase your authenticity and uniqueness. Various online platforms, local workshops, and academic writing centers provide targeted assistance in this area.
Online Resources
Leverage a variety of online platforms that specialize in college admissions essays. Websites like College Essay Guy offer free resources, including video tutorials, worksheets, and prompts specifically tailored to the UPenn supplemental essays. Additionally, forums such as College Confidential facilitate discussions with peers who can share their experiences and tips, providing a community for support and constructive feedback.
Workshops and Writing Centers
Consider enrolling in local workshops offered by community colleges or writing centers that focus on personal statement and college essay writing. These workshops not only provide you with structured guidance but also allow you to share your work and receive valuable feedback from instructors and fellow students. Make use of university resources; many institutions offer services to prospective students, including essay review and personal statement consultations tailored to UPenn specifics.
Peer Review Groups
Joining a peer review group can also be beneficial. Collaborating with fellow applicants allows you to gain insights into different writing styles and approaches. You can critique each other’s drafts, ensuring that each essay remains authentic and reflects your genuine voice. This not only helps in fine-tuning your essays but also builds a supportive network of like-minded individuals aiming for the same goal.
Books and Literature
Reading books focused on personal narrative and essay writing can provide inspiration and creative techniques. Titles such as “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft” by Stephen King and “The Elements of Style” by Strunk and White can sharpen your writing skills and offer valuable lessons in storytelling. These resources foster creativity and can ignite new ideas for how to present your experiences in a compelling way.
In conclusion, tapping into a variety of resources enhances your essay-writing process, empowering you to articulate your personal narrative effectively. Utilizing online platforms, attending workshops, engaging with peers, and drawing inspiration from literature will create a well-rounded toolkit that bolsters your confidence and prepares you to present your most authentic self to the admissions committee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I make my UPenn supplemental essays more authentic?
A: To enhance authenticity in your UPenn essays, focus on personal anecdotes that reflect genuine experiences. Share specific stories that illustrate your values, passions, and aspirations while relating them to what UPenn offers. This personal touch makes your essay unique and memorable.
Q: What should I avoid when writing UPenn supplemental essays?
A: Avoid clichés and generic statements that don’t convey your individuality. Stay away from overused phrases and ensure your writing reflects your voice. Instead, provide specific examples and personal insights that connect your experiences to UPenn’s culture and educational philosophy.
Q: How do I connect my values to UPenn’s culture in my essays?
A: To connect your values with UPenn’s culture, research the university’s mission and community traits. Discuss how these resonate with your personal beliefs and experiences. Use your narrative to illustrate shared values, demonstrating why you belong at UPenn.
Q: What are common mistakes to avoid in UPenn supplemental essays?
A: Common mistakes include failing to answer the prompts specifically, using overly formal language, and submitting essays without proofreading. Additionally, avoid writing what you think the admissions committee wants to hear; authenticity is critical for standing out.
Q: How can feedback improve my UPenn essays?
A: Seeking feedback allows you to gain new perspectives on your writing. Share your drafts with teachers, peers, or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Their insights can help you clarify your message and improve the overall impact of your essays.
Q: When is the best time to start writing my supplemental essays for UPenn?
A: Ideally, start writing your UPenn supplemental essays several months before the deadline. This allows ample time for brainstorming, drafting, receiving feedback, and editing, ensuring that you submit a polished and compelling application.
Q: How should I outline my supplemental essays for UPenn?
A: Begin by identifying the key points you want to convey in your essay. Create an outline with an introduction that hooks the reader, followed by organized paragraphs that each focus on a specific idea or experience. Finally, conclude by tying back to your interest in UPenn.
Q: What resources can help me with my UPenn supplemental essays?
A: Resources include college essay writing guides, online forums, and writing centers. Websites like CollegeEssayGuy and CollegeAdvisor provide tips and examples for crafting strong supplemental essays. Utilizing these resources can help refine your approach and enhance your writing skills.
Wrapping Up
As you embark on crafting your UPenn supplemental essays, remember that authenticity is your greatest asset. Showcase your unique experiences and perspectives, and don’t hesitate to inject your personality into your writing. To deepen your understanding, explore our guides on mastering college essays and discovering standout strategies for other top schools. Act now-start drafting today to ensure you have ample time for revisions. If you have questions or need tailored advice, consider signing up for our newsletter for expert tips or scheduling a consultation with our writing specialists. Your journey to standing out in the admissions process begins here, so keep refining your narrative and believe in the power of your voice. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below; we’d love to hear from you!
