That Kitchen Implement

So what did you choose? A spatula? A sieve? The toaster?

And why? I like to turn things over and see how they work. I focus on the best parts and ignore the rest of life's little hassles. I'm the warm and friendly type.

More to the point, what process did you employ?

I'm guessing you started by trying to think of a few kitchen implements. You made a mental list of options. Then you began to think , "Which one would match up with me? What characteristics do we share?" From there it was easy--"I'd be an electric mixer--no Cuisinart thing--I get the job done by hard work--nothing flashy. Old reliable--that's me."

So do the same for your application essay: think about some events in your life, some activities you've been involved in, a conversation you once had, a book you read, a friend who betrayed you and your reaction--from all the "kitchen implements" of your life, choose one to serve as a proxy for you. Try to pick one that will serve you well, showing as much as possible about who you are and how you roll. Tell that story and show how that event or conversation or transaction illuminates the real you....and you've nailed your essay.