Describe an intellectual experience that has engaged or challenged you.

It was Baltasar Gracián who declared that self-knowledge is the beginning of self-improvement. When I consider the intellectual events that have most affected me, I find most conspicuous (eye-catching) those that have let me understand myself more deeply. When I first read the topic requested for this essay, I began thinking back upon the many recent intellectual challenges that have involved me.

A few experiences stood out. There was my literature teacher Mr. Fulani, which has continued teaching me not only about great books, but also about solid reasoning, respect and most importantly about perspective. The college class Introduction to Sociology that I am currently taking now, part of the College Now program which I participa te, has introduce me to the basic concepts and understanding of different groups and individuals. I have developed my own opinions of social life. There were the discussions I've had with friends that have influenced my thinking and sharpen my rhetorical (abstract) skills.

But in recent months, there has been one experience that, perhaps more than any other, has allowed me to better understand myself. And that experience, ironically enough, has been writing college application essays. I am, at this time, applying to six colleges. Perhaps I have chosen so many because they each have an aspect that entices me; perhaps it is because I lack decision-making skills. But whatever the reason, I have found myself spending a great deal of this fall and winter on the word processor, composing essays. The questions I have tackled have ranged from the profound (thoughtful) to the inane (absurd), but all have required a good deal of time to answer properly.