As a senior applying to college, this fall and early winter were a flurry of essay writing, emailing schools, and eventually submitting applications. The supplemental essays I wrote presented a new challenge. I had to convey a sense of who I was in 500 words or fewer? Or only 150? There was a lot of frustration, sighs, and complaining on my part.

Having to answer questions about myself succinctly ended up being a strangely wonderful exercise in self-reflection. And answering questions brought about more questions.

Which extracurricular activities would I mention? (For the record, I did reference my work in the St. Anne’s nursery and involvement in youth group!)

What do I value? (How can I live by my values?)

How do I, as a suburban white girl, embrace diversity? (How can I improve?)

What would I add to a community? (What do I want to add in the future?)

Writing these essays helped me clarify who I am now and who I want to be, and I think have helped prepare me for my transition into college. But the types of questions they raised aren’t only good for tormenting high schoolers!

During Lent, Christians contemplate themselves and their faith. I invite you to take some time to think about how you would describe your values, the activities you do, your passions, and your strengths. Who are you? What do you value? How can you live by those values? How are you in transition as a person?

Abby Mueller