STORY #16: A “computer nerd” wrote down what he thought his Dell computer would say about him should the computer be able to think and write.

How story was used:
To answer the Common Application Topic of Choice essay question.

Messages of story:
Not only is the student very adept at using, programming, fixing, and setting up computers for himself, family, friends, and even teachers, he is very creative in finding in finding a way to describe his talents and abilities.

STORY #17: A student wrote about her Chinese grandfather, and how in spite of being orphaned at an early age, he taught himself how to be an artist by reading art books and sketching.

How story was used:
To answer the Common Application essay question about a person who has had a significant influence on you and describe that influence.

Messages of story:
The student is an accomplished artist herself, very creative, and aware of what older people have to offer in wisdom, maturity and insight.

STORY #18: A boy reflects on how he started to cook when he was four years old, and how cooking has led him to learn a whole lot more about the world than the food he eats.

How story was used:
To answer an application essay question about evaluating a significant experience of achievement you have had in your life and the impact it has had on you.

Messages of story:
Not only is the student a prize-winning cook, but has used his thirst for knowledge about the topic as a way of learning about nutrition, about different cultures, history, even the physics of food. In addition, he is creative, curious, sophisticated and has a wonderful sense of humor.