When it comes to applying to Swarthmore College, crafting compelling supplemental essays can set your application apart from the crowd. Given Swarthmore’s emphasis on values such as social responsibility and intellectual curiosity, your essays are not merely an afterthought; they’re a critical element that showcases who you are beyond grades and test scores.
Many prospective students struggle with how to authentically express their thoughts and experiences, often feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to be unique. The good news is that with clear strategies and thoughtful reflection, you can create standout responses that resonate with the admissions committee.
In this guide, we’ll delve into practical ways to approach Swarthmore’s essay prompts, providing you with actionable insights and examples to help you articulate your individuality and passions. Your narrative deserves to shine-let’s unlock the secrets to making your essays as inspiring as your aspirations.
Understanding Swarthmore’s Supplemental Essay Prompts
is crucial for crafting standout responses that resonate with the admissions committee. Each prompt is designed to unveil your unique perspective, experiences, and aspirations, providing a glimpse into who you are beyond your academic scores. When approaching these prompts, it is essential to reflect deeply on your personal journey, motivations, and how they align with Swarthmore’s values, fostering a genuine connection in your writing.
Swarthmore often encourages applicants to explore themes of community, intellectual curiosity, and personal growth. This means you should dive into specific experiences that shaped your educational journey or community involvement. For instance, if prompted to discuss a significant challenge, rather than framing the challenge only as a setback, consider discussing the lessons learned or growth achieved through those experiences. This approach demonstrates resilience and an eagerness to learn-qualities that Swarthmore highly values.
Moreover, the prompts frequently ask applicants to express their academic interests and future aspirations, so it’s beneficial to highlight how Swarthmore’s specific programs or faculty align with your goals. If you’re passionate about environmental science, for example, mention particular initiatives at Swarthmore that attract you, showcasing your research and genuine interest in the school. This not only fulfills the prompt’s requirement but also illustrates your proactive approach to finding a fitting academic home.
To ensure you accurately address the prompts, consider brainstorming sessions where you jot down key experiences and how they relate to the questions posed. This method not only clarifies your thoughts but also aids in identifying the most compelling narratives to include in your essays. By understanding the essence of the prompts and interweaving your story with Swarthmore’s ethos, you can create engaging and impactful responses that truly reflect who you are as a candidate.
Crafting Your Personal Narrative: Tips for Authenticity
Crafting an authentic personal narrative can significantly elevate your supplemental essays for Swarthmore. Admissions committees seek genuine stories that reflect who you are at your core, rather than conventional responses that echo common themes. One effective way to achieve this authenticity is by delving into specific moments that have defined your journey. Instead of merely stating your accomplishments, reflect on the experiences that shaped your character and aspirations. This approach shifts the focus from listing achievements to illuminating your unique perspectives, fostering a deeper connection with the reader.
To construct compelling narratives, consider employing the following strategies:
- Reflect on Personal Experiences: Explore formative experiences that are emblematic of your values and growth. Whether it’s a challenge you overcame or a passion you nurtured, these stories can reveal your resilience and commitment to your academic pursuits.
- Use Vivid Details: Create a vivid tapestry by including sensory details and emotions connected to your experiences. This not only makes your narrative relatable but also helps the admissions committee visualize your story.
- Show Vulnerability: Emphasizing moments of doubt or setbacks can illustrate your authenticity. Discuss how these experiences contributed to your personal growth, showcasing your ability to learn and adapt.
- Make Connections: Tie your personal experiences back to Swarthmore’s values or particular programs. For instance, if a community service experience ignited your interest in social justice, connect it to Swarthmore’s commitment to social responsibility.
Choosing the right story is crucial. Instead of forcing yourself to fit into a prescribed narrative, allow your values and passions to guide your writing. This authenticity not only engages the reader but also communicates your genuine interest in becoming part of the Swarthmore community. Remember, your personal narrative is an opportunity to showcase your individuality; let it reflect the true you. By focusing on what makes your experiences unique and relevant, you’ll create an essay that resonates with the admissions committee and sets you apart as a candidate.
Key Strategies for Writing Engaging Responses
Writing supplemental essays for Swarthmore College can feel daunting, but employing effective strategies can truly elevate your responses. One central approach is to focus on specificity. Instead of vague assertions about your aspirations or character, draw from concrete experiences that illustrate who you are and what you value. For instance, rather than saying, “I care about community service,” you might recount a specific project where you led a community initiative, detailing the challenges faced and lessons learned. This not only provides clarity but also engages the reader through a compelling narrative.
Another key strategy is to establish a connection between your personal experiences and Swarthmore’s mission and values. Research the college’s programs or values that resonate with you, and weave these into your essay. If, for example, you are passionate about social justice, share a story about a related initiative you participated in, then adeptly link back to how Swarthmore’s commitment to social responsibility aligns with your goals. This demonstrates not only your fit for the institution but also your proactive engagement with its ethos.
Incorporating reflective language is also crucial. Admissions officers appreciate honesty and introspection, so consider showcasing your thought process. Discuss what you’ve learned from your experiences, using phrases like “I realized that…” or “This taught me the importance of…”. Such reflections not only enhance the authenticity of your essay but reveal critical thinking skills, which are highly valued by colleges.
To elevate the overall quality of your writing, focus on your unique voice. Let your personality shine through your choice of words and sentence structures. Read your essay out loud to ensure it sounds like you-this can help identify areas where the writing feels too formal or stilted. Finally, don’t hesitate to seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide insights while respecting your voice. Engaging with your writing in this manner can turn an intimidating task into an opportunity for personal growth and expression.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Essays
Writing supplemental essays for Swarthmore can be a transformative journey, but numerous pitfalls can hinder your efforts. Many students struggle with clichés and generic statements that fail to capture their individuality. One of the most common mistakes is relying on broad themes like “I am passionate about education” without providing a personal story to back it up. To stand out, draw the reader in with specific anecdotes that highlight your unique perspective and experiences. Instead of telling them you care about education, share a memorable moment from a tutoring session that changed your understanding of learning.
Another frequent error comes from not aligning your essays with Swarthmore’s values and mission. When you evaluate the prompts, take the time to explore how your experiences connect to the college’s emphasis on social responsibility and academic rigor. This alignment not only strengthens your narrative but also reinforces your candidacy. Failing to showcase this connection could lead you to miss an opportunity to underline the reasons you are a perfect fit for Swarthmore.
Additionally, students often underestimate the value of revision. Submitting the first draft without critical reflection can be detrimental. Many essays fall short of clarity and impact due to rushed writing or overlooked grammatical errors. Set aside time to review your essays multiple times, seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain fresh perspectives. This process can reveal insights you may have missed initially, helping to polish your voice and personal narrative.
Lastly, avoid the temptation to oversaturate your essay with lofty language or complicated jargon. Authenticity is key. Admissions officers appreciate straightforward, genuine prose that reflects your unique voice. Write as you speak, ensuring your personality shines through in your work. A conversational tone often resonates more effectively than elaborate phrases, allowing your true self to connect with the reader.
By being mindful of these common mistakes-overgeneralization, misalignment with institutional values, neglect of revision, and overly complex language-you can craft compelling essays that truly reflect your identity and intentions. Engaging in this reflective and iterative writing process not only enhances the quality of your submissions but also fosters personal growth along the way.
Leveraging Your Unique Experiences for Impact
Capturing your unique experiences in your Swarthmore supplemental essay can transform your narrative from ordinary to compelling. Admissions committees are eager to understand the individuality behind your application, and sharing specific experiences can breathe life into your essays, allowing you to resonate with those reading them. Reflecting on your journey, consider moments that not only shaped who you are but also connect to the character and mission of Swarthmore College.
To effectively leverage your unique experiences, identify key moments that highlight your personal growth, resilience, or passion. Begin by brainstorming significant events in your life-these could include volunteer work, family experiences, or challenges you’ve overcome. Then, distill these experiences down to their essence, focusing on what you learned and how they’ve influenced your academic interests or personal values. For instance, if you participated in a community service project that taught you about diversity and social justice, don’t just state your commitment; delve into a specific instance during this project that sparked your interest in these topics.
Crafting a Relatable Narrative
Engaging your reader with relatable narratives is vital. Make use of vivid descriptions and emotional insights to convey not just what happened, but how it made you feel and think. Ask yourself: What was your initial reaction? What doubts did you face? How did you overcome them? This approach not only showcases your authenticity but also fosters a connection with the admissions committee, allowing them to see you as a real person, not just a collection of grades and test scores.
Furthermore, align your experiences with the values that Swarthmore emphasizes-such as social responsibility, academic excellence, and a commitment to community. Illustrating how your experiences reflect these values can significantly enhance your application. For example, if you’ve taken part in environmental activism, articulate how that shaped your desire to pursue studies in environmental science, especially in a community like Swarthmore that champions engagement and leadership.
Ultimately, the impact of your unique experiences resides in your ability to communicate them effectively. Use the revision process to refine your stories, making sure they fit seamlessly within the context of your supplemental essay prompts. Engaging outcomes often spring from a thoughtful integration of your life’s stories into your application, allowing the admissions committee to appreciate the depth of your character and potential.
Effective Ways to Showcase Your Academic Interests
To make a striking impression in your Swarthmore supplemental essay, demonstrating your academic interests is crucial. A well-crafted narrative that highlights your intellectual passions can convey not only your enthusiasm for learning but also your alignment with Swarthmore’s values. Start by reflecting on the subjects that inspire you most and consider how they intersect with your personal experiences. For instance, if you are passionate about literature, think about how a particular book or author influenced your perspective on life, or if you have a keen interest in biology, recount an experience in a lab that ignited your curiosity.
One effective method to showcase your academic interests is to tell a story that encapsulates a pivotal moment related to your field of study. This could involve an impressive project, a challenging academic endeavor, or a transformative class that deepened your understanding. Illustrate this experience with vivid details-describe the process, the challenges you faced, and the insights you gained. By constructing a narrative around a specific academic experience, you provide concrete evidence of your passion and motivation rather than merely stating your interests.
Additionally, linking your academic aspirations to your potential contributions to the Swarthmore community can enhance your essay. Research specific programs, professors, or research opportunities that resonate with your goals and explain why they appeal to you. Discussing how you plan to engage with Swarthmore’s academic offerings indicates not only your interest in the institution but also your proactive approach to your education. Perhaps you might express excitement about joining a specific seminar or contributing to campus initiatives related to your field, which can illustrate your readiness to be an active member of the community.
Finally, it’s important to maintain an authentic voice throughout your writing. Share genuine thoughts and reflections, making it clear why your interests matter. Whether your focus is on theoretical applications or practical implications, showing your unique personality will help the admissions committee connect with who you are as a student and as an individual. Remember, the goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of your academic journey-one that is compelling, relatable, and distinctly yours.
Balancing Personal and Academic Themes
Crafting an essay that intertwines personal and academic themes is vital to presenting a holistic view of who you are as a candidate. Your experiences, aspirations, and values should resonate throughout your writing, creating a narrative that is both compelling and authentic. Striking this balance can be achieved through thoughtful reflection on your personal journey and how it informs your academic pursuits.
One effective strategy is to select a personal experience that directly aligns with your academic interests. For instance, if you’re passionate about environmental science, you might share a moment from a volunteer experience that sparked your desire to engage with ecological issues. Describe not only the event itself but also your emotions and realizations during that experience. This approach helps illustrate your motivations in a relatable way, making your academic interests feel less abstract and more intertwined with your personal narrative.
Connecting Personal Anecdotes with Academic Goals
To further reinforce the connection between your personal story and academic aspirations, consider the following steps:
- Identify Key Experiences: Reflect on formative moments in your life that shaped your academic interests. What crises or challenges have you faced that have influenced your perspective?
- Make Explicit Connections: When recounting your personal experiences, explicitly link them to your academic goals. Explain how these experiences have cultivated your desire to study specific subjects or engage in certain fields.
- Demonstrate Growth: Admissions committees appreciate stories of personal growth. Show how your experiences have led you closer to understanding your academic ambitions.
For example, if your interest lies in literature and cultural studies, you might write about a time you engaged in community storytelling events. Emphasize how listening to diverse voices enriched your understanding of narrative forms and inspired you to explore the significance of storytelling in cultural contexts. This direct link between experience and aspiration creates a powerful narrative that can resonate with admissions officers.
Showcasing a Multi-Dimensional Perspective
When blending personal and academic themes, aim to present yourself as a multi-dimensional individual. Avoid a linear narrative that solely focuses on academic achievements; instead, embrace the complexities of your journey. This could involve discussing how personal challenges, such as overcoming a learning obstacle or engaging in community service, have shaped your intellectual curiosity.
Moreover, grounding your academic pursuits in a personal context allows you to illustrate your unique perspective and voice. Highlighting your background can make your application stand out, as it invites the admissions committee to envision you as an active participant in their academic community. Remember, the goal is to create an integrated narrative that is reflective of who you are, both as a student and as a person, fostering a connection that extends beyond the pages of your essay.
By weaving together personal anecdotes and academic ambitions, you create a cohesive and compelling narrative that showcases both your intellectual and emotional depth, setting the stage for a standout application to Swarthmore.
Incorporating Feedback: The Revision Process
The revision process is a critical phase in crafting compelling essays, particularly for your Swarthmore supplemental responses. Feedback serves as a valuable tool that can illuminate insights and nuances in your writing that you may overlook during the initial drafting phase. Opening your work to critique not only enhances clarity but also strengthens the narrative arc, ensuring it effectively communicates your unique perspective and experiences.
To begin the revision process, it’s vital to seek feedback from diverse sources. This could include teachers, peers, family members, or mentors who can offer varied insights. When sharing your essay, provide specific questions or concerns you may have, such as whether the essay effectively conveys your passion for a particular subject or if your personal anecdotes resonate. A focused approach helps your reviewers concentrate on areas that matter most to you, facilitating targeted suggestions that can refine your drafts.
Actively Engaging with Feedback
Once you receive feedback, engage with it actively rather than defensively. Consider each suggestion carefully and determine which resonate with you. Keep an open mind-what might feel like criticism is often an opportunity for growth. It can be helpful to summarize the feedback in a checklist format to visualize changes needed. For example:
- Clarify main themes: Are the connections between your personal stories and academic interests clear?
- Enhance emotional impact: Where can you add more depth to your experiences to better engage the reader?
- Balance tone and style: Is your voice consistent throughout the essay?
Incorporating feedback doesn’t mean you have to accept every suggestion; rather, it’s about finding the balance that stays true to your voice while enhancing the overall quality of your essay.
Iterative Refinement
The revision process is iterative; expect to go through multiple rounds of editing. After implementing the initial round of feedback, it can be beneficial to let your essay sit for a few days before reviewing it again. This pause allows you to approach your work with fresh eyes, making it easier to identify areas for further improvement.
As you refine your essay, keep the big picture in mind-are you presenting a holistic view of who you are? Does your essay reflect your intellectual passions and personal growth in a way that invites admissions officers to see you as a vibrant member of their community?
By embracing feedback and committing to multiple revisions, you will not only craft a standout essay for your Swarthmore application but also enhance your writing skills for future endeavors. This process is as much about exploring your narrative as it is about honing your craft, and with each iteration, your voice will shine brighter on the page.
Real-Life Examples of Successful Essays
Crafting a compelling essay can feel daunting, but examining real-life examples of successful responses can serve as a powerful motivator and guide. One noteworthy essay details a student’s experience with a community garden project, showcasing their initiative and deepening understanding of environmental issues. The narrative unfolded not just as a recounting of events but as a reflection on the importance of community collaboration. The student vividly described the challenges they faced, the teamwork involved, and how this project transformed their perspective on sustainability. By infusing personal anecdotes with broader implications, the essay connected the student’s individual journey to themes of environmental advocacy and civic responsibility.
Another effective example featured a student who struggled with a challenging family situation but found solace and strength through music. In the essay, they passionately conveyed the emotional power of music as an outlet for expression and a bridge to understanding their identity. The narrative was rich with sensory details, allowing the reader to experience the music along with the writer. This personal connection not only illuminated the student’s resilience but also illustrated a commitment to pursuing music studies-effectively integrating personal and academic themes.
These successful essays highlight key techniques that aspiring authors can adopt in their own writing. As you brainstorm your narratives, consider the following strategies to enhance your storytelling:
- Use Descriptive Language: Engage the reader’s senses with vivid imagery that paints a clear picture of your experiences.
- Show Growth and Reflection: Illustrate how specific experiences shaped your character and aspirations, providing insight into your development.
- Make Connections: Relate your personal stories to wider themes, such as community service, social issues, or educational goals, ensuring a holistic view of your identity is presented.
As you write, remember that authenticity is key. Admissions officers are looking for genuine reflections of who you are, so let your unique voice and experiences shine through. By drawing inspiration from these successful essays while crafting your own narrative, you can create a distinctive and impactful response that resonates with your audience.
How to Stay True to Your Voice
Writing an essay that truly reflects your individuality can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding tasks in the college application process. When approaching Swarthmore’s supplemental essay prompts, it’s essential to harness your authentic voice-this ensures that your essay stands out to admissions officers who read countless submissions. Authenticity not only allows you to convey your unique experiences and perspective but also fosters a deeper connection with the reader, making your story resonate long after they’ve read it.
To keep your authentic voice at the forefront, start by brainstorming moments in your life that are particularly meaningful to you. Ask yourself what experiences have shaped who you are today. Think about times you felt most yourself, whether during a personal triumph, a struggle, or an enlightening experience. For instance, if you have a passion for a specific hobby or field of study, explore the feelings and thoughts attached to that interest. Reflecting on these moments will provide a reservoir of inspiration from which to draw your story.
Tips for Maintaining Your Voice
- Be Honest and Vulnerable: Don’t be afraid to share your struggles and uncertainties. Admissions committees appreciate honesty and the courage it takes to confront challenges. For example, writing about a failure can often be more impactful than detailing an extraordinary achievement, as it shows growth and resilience.
- Use Your Natural Language: Write as if you are having a conversation with someone who genuinely wants to understand you. Avoid overly complex language and jargon that doesn’t reflect your true self. Your style should be consistent with how you express yourself verbally.
- Write in Your Own Style: Incorporate elements that resonate with you, whether it be humor, poetry, or straightforward prose. This will help differentiate your essay from others, making it a genuine representation of you.
Another practical approach to ensure that your true voice shines through is to engage in multiple drafts. Share your writing with trusted friends, family, or teachers who know you well-they can provide feedback on whether your personality comes through in your writing. Be open to constructive criticism but don’t lose sight of your core message or how you want to be perceived. Each revision is an opportunity to refine your expression while ensuring it remains authentic to who you are.
Ultimately, the goal is to present a narrative that feels true to you, one that captures your passions, beliefs, and motivations. When you stay true to your voice, you not only create a compelling essay but also embark on a journey of self-discovery, gaining clarity about your own aspirations and identity along the way. Embrace this process as it is not just about crafting an essay but sharing a piece of who you are with those who will inform the next chapter of your academic journey.
Essential Resources for Essay Writing Support
When it comes to crafting a standout essay for your Swarthmore application, leveraging available resources can significantly enhance your writing process. Familiarizing yourself with diverse tools and support systems not only makes the task feel less daunting but also enriches the quality of your content, allowing your unique voice to shine through.
One invaluable resource is the myriad of online platforms dedicated to college essay writing. Websites like the Purdue OWL offer extensive guides on writing mechanics, structure, and style, equipping you with the fundamental skills needed to articulate your thoughts effectively. Additionally, Insightful platforms such as College Essay Guy provide personalized advice and webinars that can help demystify the writing process.
You might also consider joining peer review groups or workshops. Engaging with fellow students allows for the exchange of ideas and constructive feedback. This collaborative environment can reveal new perspectives on your writing while helping to identify areas for improvement. Your school’s writing center is another fantastic resource; where trained advisors can provide tailored feedback and assistance as you navigate the intricacies of your essays.
Lastly, remember the power of various writing books and podcasts designed specifically for college admissions. Titles such as “College Essay Essentials” by Ethan Sawyer offer practical tips and inspiring examples, while podcasts like “The College Essay Whisperer” provide insight into what admissions committees seek, helping you align your narrative with their expectations. Stepping into the essay-writing process armed with these resources will not only enhance your confidence but also ensure you present an authentic, compelling narrative.
Time Management Tips for Essay Completion
Crafting compelling essays for your Swarthmore application requires not just creativity but also effective time management. Approaching the writing process systematically can alleviate stress and enhance the quality of your work. Starting early is crucial; this gives you ample time to brainstorm, draft, revise, and refine your ideas without the pressure of a looming deadline. To streamline this process, consider breaking down your tasks into manageable segments, allowing you to focus on one element of your essay at a time.
A practical approach involves creating a timeline that outlines your major milestones. Here’s a simple framework you can adapt:
- Week 1: Understanding the prompts and brainstorming ideas.
- Week 2: Drafting your essay – focus on getting your ideas down without worrying too much about perfection.
- Week 3: Revising and refining your draft – look for clarity, coherence, and voice.
- Week 4: Seeking feedback from teachers or peers, and making final adjustments.
Setting specific times each day dedicated to writing can also reinforce consistency. Even short, focused writing sessions can lead to significant progress over time. Consider using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, in which you work for 25 minutes and then take a five-minute break, to maintain your concentration and stamina.
Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of reflection time. After drafting your essay, step away for a few days before revisiting it. This break allows you to view your work with fresh eyes, making it easier to identify areas for improvement. By organizing your writing process and allowing yourself the needed time to refine your essays, you can create standout responses that genuinely reflect your unique experiences and aspirations.
Ultimately, the goal is to approach your supplemental essays not only as a requirement but as an opportunity to express who you are. By practicing effective time management, you empower yourself to write confidently, ensuring your final submissions are as impactful as possible.
FAQ
Q: What are the most important qualities of a standout Swarthmore supplemental essay?
A: A standout Swarthmore supplemental essay should be authentic, engaging, and reflective of your unique experiences. It should clearly address the prompt and provide insight into your personality, values, and academic interests. Focus on demonstrating self-awareness and a genuine connection to Swarthmore’s community and values.
Q: How can I effectively brainstorm topics for my Swarthmore supplemental essays?
A: To brainstorm effectively, reflect on your personal experiences, values, and academic interests that align with Swarthmore’s mission. Use free writing or mind mapping to generate ideas. Consider significant moments in your life or challenges you’ve overcome, which can serve as compelling essay topics.
Q: Are there any specific themes that resonate well in Swarthmore supplemental essays?
A: Yes, themes such as social justice, intellectual curiosity, and community engagement resonate well. Highlighting how your experiences align with these themes can showcase your suitability for Swarthmore and demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact.
Q: What strategies can help me avoid common mistakes in my Swarthmore essays?
A: To avoid mistakes, carefully review the essay prompts and ensure your responses are directly relevant. Read your essays aloud to catch awkward phrasing and seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors. Also, manage your time to prevent rushed submissions, allowing for thorough revision.
Q: How do I showcase my academic interests in the essays without sounding repetitive?
A: Showcase your academic interests by weaving them into personal anecdotes rather than listing them. Discuss specific projects, books, or experiences that sparked your passion, integrating them organically into your narrative to maintain a fresh and engaging tone.
Q: What role does the revision process play in crafting a strong supplemental essay?
A: The revision process is crucial for refining your ideas, enhancing clarity, and improving overall flow. After drafting, take a break, then revisit your essays with fresh eyes. Incorporate constructive feedback to strengthen your essays, ensuring they resonate with your intended message.
Q: How can I ensure that my voice remains authentic in my Swarthmore supplemental essays?
A: To maintain your authentic voice, write as you speak, using natural language and expression. Share personal stories that genuinely reflect who you are and your values. Avoid overly formal language or clichés, and ensure that your passion shines through in your writing.
Q: What resources can help me improve my essay writing skills for Swarthmore supplements?
A: Utilize writing centers at your school, online writing communities, or guides focused on college admissions essays. Reading successful essay examples and attending workshops can also provide valuable insights. Look for resources that include practical tips and feedback mechanisms to sharpen your writing skills.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on your journey to craft standout responses for your Swarthmore supplemental essays, remember that clarity, authenticity, and structure are key to captivating admissions committees. By utilizing actionable techniques and referring to our detailed guides on writing strategies and common pitfalls, you can boost your confidence and creativity in presenting your unique story. Don’t miss the opportunity to refine your skills further-check out our resources on personal statement tips and common college essay questions.
Now is the time to take action! Dive into your writing with renewed enthusiasm and explore our blog for more insights that can enhance your essays. Have questions or need clarification? We invite you to join the conversation in the comments section or share your thoughts with fellow applicants. Together, let’s navigate the path to your academic success. Your future at Swarthmore is just an essay away!
