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How to Write the University of Maryland, Baltimore County Essays 2024-2025

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County has supplemental essay prompts that are required for Honors College applicants. The first three prompts are mandatory, and the fourth prompt requires you to choose one of the following options. Take a look at our essay breakdowns for each prompt to help you write your best essay!

 

University of Maryland, Baltimore County Essay Prompts

 

Honors College Applicants

 

Prompt 1: What are your principal areas of academic interest? What are your career goals? (250 words)

Prompt 2: What are your areas of interest and involvement in and outside of school? (250 words)

Prompt 3: What service and leadership experience have you engaged in through school or the community? (250 words)

Prompt 4: Please select one of the following prompts to address:

  • Option A: The Constitution of the United States currently has 27 amendments. What should be the 28th Amendment and why? (600-650 words)

  • Option B: What historical event do you wish you could witness? Please explain why you chose this event. (600-650 words)

 

Prompt 1

 

What are your principal areas of academic interest? What are your career goals? (250 words)

 

This is a Why This Major essay archetype, where admissions officers want to understand what drives your academic and career goals and how your past experiences shape your passions. Your response should convey not just what you’re interested in, but why those interests matter to you and how they connect to your aspirations.

 

Understanding the Prompt

 

This prompt is asking for two things: your academic interests and how they’ve developed, and your career goals and how your interests lead to those goals.

 

Brainstorming Questions

 

  • What subjects are you most passionate about, and why?
  • When did you first become interested in this academic field?
  • What specific experiences (projects, classes, extracurriculars) have shaped your interest?
  • How do your academic interests tie into your future career goals?
  • What career are you aiming for, and why? What do you hope to accomplish in that career?

 

What Makes a Good Response

 

  • Genuine enthusiasm for the field: Show authentic passion through specific examples.
  • Clear connection between academic interests and career goals: Your academic interests should logically lead to your career aspirations.
  • Personal story or example: Include a defining moment or experience that helped shape your interests.
  • Realistic career vision: Detail both short- and long-term goals and why they matter to you.

 

Hypothetical Student Examples

 

  • Daniel, a high school robotics team leader, has been obsessed with designing and programming robots since watching the Mars Rover landing in middle school. He plans to study Mechanical Engineering to pursue a career in robotics, ultimately hoping to work on space exploration technology at NASA.
  • Ariana, who grew up playing the violin in orchestras and school ensembles, wants to combine her love for music and technology by studying Sound Engineering. Her career goal is to work in the music production industry, innovating the ways live and recorded music are experienced.
  • Maya, a volunteer for a local environmental nonprofit, became interested in Environmental Science after leading a research project on local pollution levels. She wants to pursue a career in environmental policy to develop laws that address climate change and protect vulnerable communities.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 

  • Being too vague: Avoid generic statements like “I’ve always loved science.” Instead, give specific reasons and examples.
  • Skipping over career goals: Clearly state what career you’re working towards and why.
  • Résumé-like responses: Don’t list activities without explanation. Focus on how these activities inspired your interests.
  • Unrealistic or disconnected goals: Make sure your academic interests align with your career aspirations.

 

Good and Bad Examples

 

Good Example:

 

My fascination with sustainable energy began when I attended a climate change rally in seventh grade. After hearing activists speak about the devastating effects of fossil fuels, I knew I wanted to find solutions. In high school, I took courses in physics and environmental science, but it was my internship with a local solar energy company that solidified my path. I helped design energy-efficient systems for low-income housing, and the experience showed me how engineering can directly impact communities. I plan to major in Electrical Engineering to specialize in renewable energy technology and, one day, lead a team of engineers in developing affordable, sustainable energy solutions for underserved populations.

 

Why it works: The essay gives a clear origin of the student’s interest, connects academic interests to real-world experience, and outlines specific career goals that align with the field.

 

Bad Example:

 

I’ve always enjoyed math and science, which is why I want to study biology. I love how science explains how things work, and I find it fascinating to learn about how the human body functions. In school, I have taken many science classes, and have done well in all of them, which makes me confident that biology is the right major for me. As for my career goals, I am interested in becoming a doctor or working in research. Either way, studying biology will give me many options in the future, and I am excited to see where it takes me.

 

Why it doesn’t work: This response lacks depth and specificity. The student doesn’t explain why they enjoy biology or provide any personal experiences that shaped their interest. Additionally, the essay feels like a generic summary of academic success rather than a personal story, which weakens its impact. The lack of concrete details or passion makes it harder for the admissions officer to understand or connect with the student’s motivations.

 

‌Prompt 2

 

What are your areas of interest and involvement in and outside of school? (250 words)

 

‌This is an Extracurricular essay archetype. Admissions officers are looking for insight into what activities excite you, how you engage with your interests, and what impact you’ve made in those areas. This is an opportunity to highlight your passions, leadership roles, and contributions outside of academics.

 

Understanding the Prompt

 

The prompt asks you to explain what your main interests are, both inside and outside school, as well as how you’ve engaged in those interests (specific clubs, activities, leadership roles, personal projects, etc.).

 

Brainstorming Questions

 

  • What extracurricular activities or hobbies have been most meaningful to you?
  • How did you get involved in these areas?
  • What skills or lessons have you gained from your involvement?
  • How have you impacted the communities you’re a part of (school clubs, local organizations, etc.)?
  • How do these interests align with your future goals?

 

What Makes a Good Response

 

  • Specific interests: Focus on 2-3 activities that you are deeply involved in, rather than listing everything you’ve done.
  • Personal growth or impact: Show how these activities have shaped you, taught you valuable skills, or helped others.
  • Balance: Include both in-school and out-of-school interests if possible.
  • Authenticity: Highlight activities that you’re genuinely passionate about, rather than those you think the admissions committee wants to hear.

 

Hypothetical Student Examples

 

  • Jason, a high school theater enthusiast, has been part of every school play since freshman year. He also volunteers at a local community theater, where he works backstage on lighting design. Jason plans to combine his love for performing arts with technical skills to pursue a career in engineering with a focus on technology for theater.
  • Emily, the founder of her school’s coding club, taught herself Python in middle school and started developing apps for local businesses. Outside of school, she competes in hackathons and volunteers at a local STEM outreach program, where she teaches kids the basics of coding.
  • Lily, a passionate environmentalist, leads her school’s Environmental Club, organizing clean-up efforts and sustainability campaigns. Outside of school, she spends weekends volunteering with a conservation nonprofit, helping to restore local wetlands.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 

  • Too many activities: Don’t try to cram every involvement into one essay. Focus on your most meaningful commitments.
  • Lack of personal reflection: Don’t just describe what you did—explain why it matters to you and how you’ve grown.
  • Generic or shallow descriptions: Avoid general phrases like “I love helping others” without backing it up with specific examples of your actions.

 

Good and Bad Examples

 

Good Example:

 

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by the power of words. In middle school, I began writing short stories, which led me to join the school newspaper in high school. As the editor-in-chief, I revamped the paper’s layout and worked to make it a platform for underrepresented voices in our school community. Outside of school, I volunteer at a local literacy program where I tutor young children in creative writing. Many of the children that attend this program are from minority communities. These experiences have sharpened my communication skills, bolstered my interest in working with underrepresented populations, and deepened my belief in the power of storytelling to inspire change. My long-term goal is to continue using writing as a tool for advocacy and education.

 

Why it works: This essay dives deep into a few activities, explains why they matter to the student, and reflects on the personal growth that resulted. It’s clear, focused, and authentic.

 

Bad Example:

 

I am involved in a myriad of activities, both in and out of school. As a member of the soccer team, the debate club, and a volunteer at the animal shelter, I have learned to have good time management skills. I enjoy playing soccer because it is a great form of exercise and it teaches me effective teamwork. Debate club has helped me improve my speaking and writing skills. On the other hand, volunteering at the animal shelter is important to me because I love helping animals. I have also done some tutoring for younger students and am part of the student government, both of which have taught me leadership skills. I enjoy staying busy and believe these activities have helped me become more well-rounded.

 

Why it doesn’t work: This response is too broad and doesn’t go into depth on any one activity. The descriptions are generic and don’t offer much insight into the student’s personality or impact. Though the student attempts to describe how these activities have shaped them, they only use buzzwords such as “leadership skills” or “time management skills” and do not attempt deeper insight. 

 

Prompt 3

 

What service and leadership experience have you engaged in through school or the community? (250 words)

 

‌This prompt falls under the Impact on Community essay archetype. Admissions officers want to see how you’ve contributed to your school or community, focusing on service and leadership. It’s important to show how these experiences have shaped your character, taught you valuable skills, and impacted others.

 

Understanding the Prompt

 

You’ll need to describe:

 

  • What service and leadership roles you’ve taken on.
  • How these roles have allowed you to make an impact on your school or community.
  • What you’ve learned from these experiences (personal growth, leadership skills, etc.).

 

Brainstorming Questions

 

  • What leadership roles have you held (in clubs, teams, or community organizations)?
  • What volunteer or service activities have you participated in, and why did they matter to you?
  • How have you helped others or improved your community through these roles?
  • What challenges did you face in your leadership or service efforts, and how did you overcome them?
  • How have these experiences influenced your goals or worldview?

 

What Makes a Good Response

 

  • Focused narrative: Choose 1-2 experiences where you’ve had significant leadership or impact, rather than listing many.
  • Specific contributions: Detail the concrete actions you took and the outcomes they led to.
  • Personal growth: Explain how these roles shaped your values or taught you new skills, like empathy or collaboration.
  • Community benefit: Show how your efforts made a difference to others, whether at school or in your local community.

 

Hypothetical Student Examples

 

  • Samantha, president of her school’s student council, spearheaded a fundraising campaign for new library resources. She organized meetings, communicated with administrators, and led a team that raised $10,000, improving access to books and study materials for the student body.
  • Brian, a leader in his community’s neighborhood cleanup initiative, worked to mobilize residents for monthly park cleanups. His ability to recruit volunteers and partner with local organizations resulted in cleaner parks and inspired others to take action for their environment.
  • Megan, captain of her school’s varsity swim team, led by example and mentored younger swimmers. She also started a swim clinic for local underprivileged children, helping teach them water safety and build confidence.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 

  • Lack of specific examples: Don’t just state that you held leadership positions—explain the actions you took and the results you achieved.
  • Focusing only on titles: Leadership isn’t just about titles; it’s about impact. Make sure to emphasize the work you did, not just the position you held.
  • Being too vague: Generic phrases like “I helped people” don’t offer insight into your personal growth or contributions.
  • Overstating your role: Be honest about your impact. Admissions officers will value genuine reflection over exaggerated accomplishments.

 

Good and Bad Examples

 

Good Example:

 

As the founder of my school’s Mental Health Awareness Club, I noticed that many students struggled with stress but didn’t know how to cope. I organized workshops on mindfulness and stress relief techniques, bringing in speakers from local mental health organizations. I also launched a peer support group where students could discuss their mental health challenges in a safe, supportive space. Over the past year, our club has grown to over 50 members, and several students have told me how the resources we’ve provided have made a positive difference in their lives. This experience has taught me how to lead with empathy and the importance of building supportive communities.

 

Why it works: This response is specific and shows the student’s initiative and leadership. It highlights how they identified a need, took action, and made a meaningful impact on their peers. The student also reflects on the personal growth they experienced through the leadership role.

 

Bad Example:

 

I have been involved in several leadership positions throughout high school. I am the vice president of my class, captain of the soccer team, and a leader in my church’s youth group. In these roles, I have helped organize events, run meetings, and lead teams. For example, I helped plan our class fundraiser and led our soccer team to the state playoffs. These leadership positions have helped me become more responsible, and improve my teamwork and time management skills.

 

Why it doesn’t work: This essay lacks depth and specific details about the student’s actions and contributions. The student lists several leadership roles but doesn’t explain what they actually did in those roles or how they impacted others. There’s also little reflection on personal growth or the value of the experiences.

 

Prompt 4 Option A

 

The Constitution of the United States currently has 27 amendments. What should be the 28th Amendment and why? (600-650 words)

 

This prompt encourages you to engage with political, social, or legal issues in the U.S. by proposing a new amendment to the Constitution. Admissions officers want to see your critical thinking, values, and ability to argue your point persuasively. It’s important to choose an issue you’re passionate about and present a thoughtful, reasoned case for your amendment.

 

Understanding the Prompt

 

In this essay, you need to:

 

  1. Propose a specific amendment: Identify a change or new law you think the U.S. Constitution should include.
  2. Explain why this change is necessary: What problem does it address? Why is it important to enshrine this change in the Constitution?
  3. Support your proposal with reasoning: Offer logical arguments, historical context, and potential benefits of your proposed amendment.

 

Brainstorming Questions

 

  • What major issues facing society today do you feel need a constitutional solution?
  • How would your amendment address a current gap or problem in the Constitution?
  • Why is this issue important to you, and why should it matter to others?
  • How would this amendment improve fairness, justice, or democracy in the U.S.?
  • What evidence or historical context supports the need for this amendment?

 

What Makes a Good Response

 

  • A strong and relevant topic: Choose a topic that has contemporary relevance and speaks to important social, political, or legal challenges.
  • Clear explanation of the issue: Clearly describe the problem your amendment would solve and why it’s essential to address it at the constitutional level.
  • Persuasive argument: Use reasoning, historical context, and potential benefits to build a strong case for why this amendment is necessary.
  • Balanced perspective: Acknowledge any potential challenges or objections to your amendment and explain why the benefits outweigh them.

 

Hypothetical Student Examples

 

  • Jade, a high school senior passionate about voting rights, could propose an amendment that guarantees automatic voter registration for all eligible citizens at age 18. She might argue that this would increase voter turnout, reduce barriers to participation, and strengthen democracy by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard.
  • Michael, a student involved in climate activism, could propose an amendment that guarantees the right to a clean and sustainable environment. He could discuss the growing environmental crisis, the need for government accountability in fighting climate change, and how this amendment would prioritize environmental protections for future generations.
  • Sofia, who has seen the effects of income inequality in her community, could propose an amendment mandating a universal basic income for all citizens. She might argue that this would address poverty, provide a financial safety net, and help reduce inequality in the U.S.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 

  • Being too broad or vague: Make sure your proposed amendment addresses a specific issue with clear solutions, rather than a general idea like “improve education” or “protect the environment.”
  • Focusing on minor issues: Your proposal should tackle an issue that is significant enough to warrant constitutional change.
  • Lack of support for your argument: Avoid simply stating your opinion—back up your points with reasoning, examples, and evidence.

 

Good and Bad Examples

 

Good Example:

 

The 28th Amendment: Guaranteeing Equal Voting Rights for All U.S. Citizens

 

The right to vote is one of the most fundamental principles of democracy, yet millions of Americans still face barriers to accessing the ballot box. From restrictive voter ID laws to purges of voter rolls, many eligible voters—especially people of color, low-income individuals, and young voters—struggle to exercise their constitutional rights. The 28th Amendment to the United States Constitution should guarantee automatic voter registration for all citizens at the age of 18 and provide federal protections against voter suppression tactics.

 

This amendment would address the longstanding issue of voter disenfranchisement, a problem rooted in both historical discrimination and modern-day tactics aimed at limiting voter participation. Currently, voter registration processes vary widely across states, and many individuals are unaware of the deadlines or requirements to register. This amendment would simplify the process by automatically registering all citizens when they turn 18, ensuring that every eligible American is ready to vote without unnecessary obstacles.

 

Moreover, this amendment would implement stronger protections against voter suppression. Over the past decade, we’ve seen states enact restrictive laws that disproportionately affect minority and low-income communities. For example, strict voter ID laws can prevent individuals who lack access to certain forms of identification from voting. Other tactics, such as voter roll purges and reductions in polling locations, create long lines and confusion on Election Day, discouraging turnout. By enshrining automatic registration and anti-suppression measures in the Constitution, we can ensure that no eligible voter is unfairly denied their right to vote.

 

In addition to increasing voter participation, this amendment would strengthen democracy as a whole. The U.S. currently has one of the lowest voter turnout rates among developed nations, with only about 60% of eligible voters participating in presidential elections and even fewer in midterm and local elections. Many of these non-voters are individuals who face significant barriers to registration and voting. Automatic registration would reduce this disparity, making it easier for marginalized communities to have their voices heard.

 

Some may argue that this amendment would infringe on states’ rights to manage their own elections. However, voting is a constitutional right, and federal protections are necessary to ensure that this right is equally accessible to all citizens, regardless of where they live. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 set an important precedent for federal intervention to protect voters from discrimination, and this amendment would build on that legacy to guarantee truly universal access to the ballot.

 

In conclusion, the 28th Amendment should guarantee automatic voter registration for all U.S. citizens and provide federal protections against voter suppression. This would reduce barriers to participation, increase voter turnout, and make American democracy more representative. Voting is not only a right, but a responsibility, and it is time for the Constitution to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to fulfill that responsibility.

 

Why this is good: The essay presents a specific, relevant issue with historical context and current examples. The argument is well-reasoned and persuasive, explaining how the amendment would solve a real problem and improve democracy. The student acknowledges potential objections and addresses them effectively.

 

Bad Example:

 

The 28th Amendment: Protecting Our Environment

 

The environment is one of the most important issues facing the world today. The 28th Amendment should protect the environment by ensuring that the government takes action to reduce pollution, stop climate change, and preserve natural resources. This is important because we need to protect the planet for future generations, and without government intervention, companies will continue to harm the environment.

 

Pollution has gotten worse over the years, and many species are endangered due to human activity. Climate change is causing wildfires, hurricanes, and other natural disasters, and if we don’t do something soon, it will be too late to fix it. The government must pass stricter laws to reduce emissions and protect endangered species, and this amendment would ensure that happens.

 

Although some people might think this is too difficult to enforce, I believe it is necessary because we only have one planet. Everyone should care about protecting the environment, and this amendment would make sure that the government does its part.

 

Why this is bad: The proposal is overly broad and lacks detail. The student doesn’t explain what the amendment would specifically do, how it would be enforced, or why the Constitution is the right place to address environmental issues. The arguments are underdeveloped, relying on general statements instead of persuasive reasoning. There is also no acknowledgment of potential challenges or opposition.

Prompt 4 Option B

 

What historical event do you wish you could witness? Please explain why you chose this event. (600-650 words)

 

This prompt invites you to engage with history in a personal and meaningful way, while also showcasing your intellectual curiosity. It asks you to reflect on a historical event that fascinates you and explain why you’d want to witness it firsthand. Admissions officers are looking to see how you think critically about history, connect it to your values or interests, and draw insights from it.

 

Understanding the Prompt

 

The prompt asks for two key elements:

 

  • Which historical event you’d want to witness.
  • Why you’d choose this event—what it means to you and how it connects to your values, interests, or personal reflections.

 

Brainstorming Questions

 

  • What period of history fascinates you the most, and why?
  • Are there historical events that inspire or move you deeply?
  • How would witnessing this event give you insight into a subject or theme you care about (e.g., justice, freedom, discovery)?
  • What lessons or perspectives could you gain by witnessing this event?
  • How would this event tie into your academic interests or personal goals?

 

What Makes a Good Response

 

  • Unique and thoughtful choice: Avoid choosing overly common events (like the moon landing or signing of the Declaration of Independence) unless you can provide a fresh and unique perspective.
  • Deep personal connection: Show why this event resonates with you on a personal or intellectual level. Does it connect to your identity, academic interests, or values?
  • Critical thinking: Analyze the significance of the event, not just what happened but also its broader impact and meaning.
  • Engagement with historical context: Demonstrate knowledge of the event’s historical importance and show that you’ve thought about its relevance.

 

Hypothetical Student Examples

 

  • Sophia, who is interested in women’s rights, might choose to witness the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848. She could write about her passion for social justice and gender equality, explaining how seeing the first major women’s rights convention would give her a sense of the struggles and triumphs of early activists who paved the way for future generations.
  • Diego, who loves art and the Renaissance, might choose to witness the unveiling of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling in 1512. He could describe his fascination with Renaissance art, the way it revolutionized human expression, and how experiencing the completion of such a masterpiece would deepen his appreciation for the intersection of art, religion, and history.
  • Hassan, who is passionate about space exploration, might choose to witness the launch of the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. He could discuss his interest in astrophysics, the technological breakthroughs that made the moon landing possible, and how being present for this milestone in human history would inspire his dream of contributing to future space exploration.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 

  • Choosing an event without personal connection: Don’t just pick a famous event without explaining why it matters to you personally.
  • Being too general: Focus on one specific event and explain its significance in detail, rather than broadly discussing an era or time period.
  • Skipping historical context: Make sure to show your understanding of the historical importance and broader impact of the event.

 

Good and Bad Examples

 

Good Example:

 

If I could witness one historical event, I would choose November 9, 1989—the day the Berlin Wall fell. For me, the fall of the Berlin Wall symbolizes the triumph of unity over division, freedom over oppression, and hope over fear. While many world events have shaped the course of history, few are as emotionally charged and symbolically powerful as this moment when the iron curtain that had separated East and West for nearly three decades was finally lifted.

 

Growing up as the child of immigrants from two different cultures, I’ve always been fascinated by stories of division and unity. My mother’s family fled political instability in South America, while my father’s family came to the U.S. after witnessing the horrors of war in the Middle East. Stories of borders, both literal and figurative, have always been present in my life. Witnessing the fall of the Berlin Wall would allow me to see, firsthand, how a physical border that divided not only a city but also families and ideologies could crumble in a single night, giving way to a wave of optimism and new possibilities.

 

The images of East and West Germans climbing over the Wall, hugging each other, and celebrating their newfound freedom are some of the most iconic in modern history. For decades, families had been separated, unable to communicate or visit one another due to the stark divide created by Cold War tensions. I imagine the overwhelming joy and relief as people finally reunited, many for the first time since the Wall went up in 1961. That sheer emotional intensity is something I would want to witness, not just to see the event but to feel the palpable sense of change in the air.

 

Additionally, witnessing this moment would offer invaluable insight into the power of peaceful protest and the role of grassroots movements in achieving political change. The fall of the Wall wasn’t just the result of political decisions made by powerful leaders—it was the culmination of years of protest, pressure, and persistence from ordinary citizens. From the protests in Leipzig to the growing dissatisfaction in East Germany, it was clear that the people’s desire for freedom was unstoppable. By being there, I could experience the collective power of a population that refused to be silenced, despite the immense challenges they faced.

 

Beyond the immediate impact on Berlin and Germany, the fall of the Berlin Wall marked the beginning of the end for the Soviet Union and the Cold War. It led to a shift in global politics, one that rippled across continents and ideologies. The world witnessed the crumbling of one of the most prominent symbols of division in the 20th century, and it became a reminder that no barrier—physical, political, or otherwise—can stand forever when people demand change. This event would teach me not only about history but also about the enduring human spirit, which seeks freedom and connection above all else.

 

Ultimately, witnessing the fall of the Berlin Wall would allow me to engage with a key moment in world history, one that continues to influence the way we understand freedom, division, and unity today. As someone deeply interested in political science and international relations, seeing this moment of reconciliation and renewal would give me a profound understanding of how walls—both literal and ideological—can be dismantled, fostering hope for a more connected and peaceful future.

 

Why it works: This response is deeply personal and thoughtful. The student ties the event to their own family’s history, providing a personal connection. It also demonstrates a solid understanding of the historical significance and the emotional and political impact of the fall of the Berlin Wall. The essay is well-structured and uses vivid imagery, helping the reader understand why this event resonates with the student.

 

Bad Example:

 

If I could witness any historical event, I would choose the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This is one of the most important events in American history because it marked the beginning of the United States as a free and independent nation. Watching the Founding Fathers come together to break away from Great Britain would have been a truly inspiring moment. These men were risking everything—treason, war, and even their lives—to fight for the rights and freedoms that we still value today. I think it would be fascinating to be in the room where such a monumental decision was made.

 

The Declaration of Independence itself is an incredible document. The language is powerful, especially the line, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” This idea laid the groundwork for American democracy, and it’s amazing to think about how ahead of its time it was. It would be interesting to hear the discussions that led to the writing of these famous words and see how the Founding Fathers debated the principles that would define the new nation. I imagine there must have been a lot of tension, excitement, and maybe even fear in the room, knowing that this act of defiance would likely lead to war with one of the most powerful empires in the world.

 

Another reason I would want to witness this event is that it was the beginning of the American Revolution, which is such an important part of our history. It would be incredible to see the bravery and conviction of the Founding Fathers firsthand, as they stood up against tyranny and fought for freedom. This moment was the spark that ignited the Revolutionary War, which eventually led to the United States winning its independence. Being there for the signing of the Declaration would give me a front-row seat to the birth of our country and the start of a revolution that changed the course of history.

 

In addition to the historical significance, I think it would be interesting to meet the Founding Fathers themselves. They were such brilliant men—Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and others—who had visionary ideas for what the country could become. Seeing them in action, working together to draft and sign the Declaration, would provide a unique insight into their personalities and leadership styles. I would love to see how they interacted with each other, what kinds of discussions and compromises they made, and how they managed to come to a consensus on such a crucial document. Meeting these historical figures in person would give me a better understanding of the people behind the famous names we learn about in history books.

 

Overall, witnessing the signing of the Declaration of Independence would be an unforgettable experience. It’s the moment that marked the beginning of the United States and set the stage for everything that followed. Seeing the courage and determination of the Founding Fathers, being there for the creation of one of the most important documents in history, and watching as a group of ordinary men came together to create a new nation would be truly inspiring. This event represents the values of freedom and independence that are central to American identity, and I think witnessing it would give me a deeper appreciation for the country’s origins.

 

Why this is bad: This essay is too broad, lacks personal connection, and doesn’t offer unique insights. The student summarizes the importance of the Declaration of Independence without tying it to any personal values, passions, or experiences. Phrases like “I think it would be interesting” and “it would be amazing” are vague and repetitive, revealing no deeper analysis or reflection. The student briefly mentions famous figures and ideas but doesn’t explore why these resonate with them personally or what witnessing the event would add to their understanding. Overall, it reads like a generic historical overview rather than an exploration of the student’s individual perspective.

 

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