college essays metaphors

College Nut

College Essays with Metaphors: A Guide to Crafting Powerful Personal Statements

What are college essays.

College essays are a crucial part of the application process, which can be the deciding factor in determining whether you get into your dream school. They are an opportunity for you to showcase your writing skills, creativity, and personality, all while convincing admissions officers that you are a good fit for their institution.

Why are Metaphors Important in College Essays?

Metaphors are a type of figure of speech that compares two things that may seem unrelated, but share common characteristics or traits. They add depth and meaning to your writing and allow you to express abstract or complex ideas in a more relatable and engaging way.

Using metaphors in your college essays can help you stand out from other applicants, as they demonstrate your ability to think critically, use language creatively, and connect seemingly disparate ideas. They can also make your essay more memorable and impactful, as they provide a unique perspective and show your personality and values.

An Example of a Metaphor in a College Essay

Imagine you are writing an essay about your passion for environmental activism. You could write: “I’ve always been drawn to the ocean like a moth to a flame. Its vastness and mystery have always fascinated me, but with every beach cleanup and marine life rescue, I feel like I’m slowly putting out the fire that threatens to consume it.” This metaphor compares the ocean to a flame and implies that the author is working to protect it from destruction.

How to Use Metaphors in College Essays

Using metaphors effectively in your college essays requires careful thought and planning. Here are some tips to help you incorporate metaphors into your writing:

Start with a brainstorming session: Think about the qualities, experiences, and emotions that define you and your story. Consider different objects or concepts that could represent these ideas, such as a rollercoaster, a puzzle, or a tree.

Choose a metaphor that fits your story: Once you have a list of potential metaphors, choose one that best represents your story and message. Make sure it is appropriate to the tone and topic of your essay.

Use the metaphor throughout your essay: Once you have chosen a metaphor, use it consistently throughout your essay to reinforce your message and create a cohesive narrative.

Don’t force it: While metaphors can be powerful tools, don’t force them into your essay if they don’t fit naturally. Use them sparingly and only where they add value to your writing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Metaphors in College Essays

While metaphors can add depth and meaning to your writing, they can also backfire if not used correctly. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using metaphors in your college essays:

Overusing clichés: While some metaphors are universally understood, using clichéd or overused metaphors can make your writing seem unoriginal and uninspired.

Being too abstract: While metaphors can be used to express abstract ideas, if they are too obscure or disconnected from your message, they can confuse readers and detract from your point.

Stretching the metaphor too far: While it’s important to use metaphors consistently throughout your essay, stretching them too far or using them inappropriately can undermine your credibility and make your writing seem contrived.

In conclusion, metaphors are powerful tools that can help you express complex ideas and create a more engaging and memorable college essay. By following the tips outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can use metaphors to showcase your unique perspective and stand out from other applicants.

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Last updated on Feb 11, 2022

90+ Must-Know Metaphor Examples to Improve Your Prose

What figure of speech is so meta that it forms the very basis of riddles? The answer: a metaphor.

As Milan Kundera wrote in The Unbearable Lightness of Being : “Metaphors are dangerous. Metaphors are not to be trifled with.” Yet, paradoxically, they are an inescapable part of our daily lives — which is why it’s all the more important to understand exactly how they function.

To help, this article has a list of 97 metaphor examples to show you what they look like in the wild. But if you have a moment to spare, let's learn a bit more about what a metaphor is.

What is a metaphor?

A metaphor is a literary device that imaginatively draws a comparison between two unlike things. It does this by stating that Thing A is Thing B. Through this method of equation, metaphors can help explain concepts and ideas by colorfully linking the unknown to the known; the abstract to the concrete; the incomprehensible to the comprehensible. It can also be a rhetorical device that specifically appeals to our sensibilities as readers.

To give you a starting point, here are some examples of common metaphors:

• “Bill is an early bird.”
• “Life is a highway.”
• “Her eyes were diamonds.”

Note that metaphors are always non-literal. As much as you might like to greet your significant other with a warhammer in hand (“love is a battlefield”) or bring 50 tanks of gasoline every time you go on a date (“love is a journey”), that’s not likely to happen in reality. Another spoiler alert: no, Katy Perry doesn't literally think that you're a firework. Rather, these are all instances of metaphors in action.

How does a metaphor differ from a simile?

Simile and metaphor are both figures of speech that draw resemblances between two things. However, the devil’s in the details. Unlike metaphors, similes use like and as to directly create the comparison. “Life is like a box of chocolates,” for instance, is a simile. But if you say, “Life is a highway,” you’re putting a metaphor in motion.

The best way to understand how a metaphor can be used is to see it in practice — luckily, we’ve got a bucket-load of metaphor examples handy for you to peruse.

The Ultimate List of 90+ Metaphor Examples

Metaphors penetrate the entire spectrum of our existence — so we turned to many mediums to dig them up, from William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to the Backstreet Boys’ ancient discography. Feel free to skip to your section of interest below for metaphor examples.

Literature Poetry Daily Expressions Songs Films Famous Quotations

Metaphors in literature are drops of water: as essential as they are ubiquitous. Writers use literary metaphors to evoke an emotional response or paint a vivid picture. Other times, a metaphor might explain a phenomenon. Given the amount of nuance that goes into it, a metaphor example in a text can sometimes deserve as much interpretation as the text itself.

Metaphors can make prose more muscular or imagery more vivid:

1. “Exhaustion is a thin blanket tattered with bullet holes.” ― If Then , Matthew De Abaitua

2. “But it is just two lovers, holding hands and in a hurry to reach their car, their locked hands a starfish leaping through the dark.” ― Rabbit, Run , John Updike

3. “The sun in the west was a drop of burning gold that slid near and nearer the sill of the world.” — Lord of the Flies , William Golding

4. “Bobby Holloway says my imagination is a three-hundred-ring circus. Currently I was in ring two hundred and ninety-nine, with elephants dancing and clowns cart wheeling and tigers leaping through rings of fire. The time had come to step back, leave the main tent, go buy some popcorn and a Coke, bliss out, cool down.” — Seize the Night ,   Dean Koontz

Writers frequently turn to metaphors to describe people in unexpected ways:

5. “But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun!” — Romeo & Juliet , William Shakespeare

6. “Who had they been, all these mothers and sisters and wives? What were they now? Moons, blank and faceless, gleaming with borrowed light, each spinning loyally around a bigger sphere.  ‘Invisible,’ said Faith under her breath. Women and girls were so often unseen, forgotten, afterthoughts. Faith herself had used it to good effect, hiding in plain sight and living a double life. But she had been blinded by exactly the same invisibility-of-the-mind, and was only just realizing it.” ― The Lie Tree , Frances Hardinge

7. “’I am a shark, Cassie,’ he says slowly, drawing the words out, as if he might be speaking to me for the last time. Looking into my eyes with tears in his, as if he's seeing me for the last time. "A shark who dreamed he was a man.’” ― The Last Star , Rick Yancey

8. “Her mouth was a fountain of delight.” — The Storm , Kate Chopin

9. “The parents looked upon Matilda in particular as nothing more than a scab. A scab is something you have to put up with until the time comes when you can pick it off and flick it away.” — Matilda , Roald Dahl

10. “Mr. Neck storms into class, a bull chasing thirty-three red flags." — Speak , Laurie Anderson

11. “’Well, you keep away from her, cause she’s a rattrap if I ever seen one.’” — Of Mice and Men , John Steinbeck

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Metaphors can help “visualize” a situation or put an event in context:

12. “But now, O Lord, You are our Father, We are the clay, and You our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand.” —Isaiah 64:8

13. “He could hear Beatty's voice. ‘Sit down, Montag. Watch. Delicately, like the petals of a flower. Light the first page, light the second page. Each becomes a black butterfly. Beautiful, eh? Light the third page from the second and so on, chainsmoking, chapter by chapter, all the silly things the words mean, all the false promises, all the second-hand notions and time-worn philosophies.’” — Fahrenheit 451 , Ray Bradbury

To entertain and tickle the brain, metaphor examples sometimes compare two extremely unlike things:

14. “Delia was an overbearing cake with condescending frosting, and frankly, I was on a diet.” ― Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception , Maggie Stiefvater

15. "The sun was a toddler insistently refusing to go to bed: It was past eight thirty and still light.” — Fault in Our Stars , John Green

16. “If wits were pins, the man would be a veritable hedgehog.” ― Fly by Night , Frances Hardinge

17. “What's this?" he inquired, none too pleasantly. "A circus?" "No, Julius. It's the end of the circus." "I see. And these are the clowns?" Foaly's head poked through the doorway. "Pardon me for interrupting your extended circus metaphor, but what the hell is that?” ― Artemis Fowl , Eoin Colfer

18. “Using a metaphor in front of a man as unimaginative as Ridcully was the same as putting a red flag to a bu — the same as putting something very annoying in front of someone who was annoyed by it.” ― Lords and Ladies , Terry Pratchett

Metaphors can help frame abstract concepts in ways that readers can easily grasp:

19. “My thoughts are stars I cannot fathom into constellations.” — Fault In Our Stars , John Green

20. “If you can look into the seeds of time, and say which grain will grow and which will not, speak then to me.” — Macbeth , William Shakespeare

21. “Memories are bullets. Some whiz by and only spook you. Others tear you open and leave you in pieces.” ― Kill the Dead , Richard Kadrey

22. “Wishes are thorns, he told himself sharply. They do us no good, just stick into our skin and hurt us.” ― A Face Like Glass , Frances Hardinge

23. “’Life' wrote a friend of mine, 'is a public performance on the violin, in which you must learn the instrument as you go along.” ― A Room with a View , E.M. Forster

24. “There was an invisible necklace of nows, stretching out in front of her along the crazy, twisting road, each bead a golden second.” ― Cuckoo Song , Frances Hardinge

25. “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” — As You Like It , William Shakespeare

Particularly prominent in the realm of poetry is the extended metaphor: a single metaphor that extends throughout all or part of a piece of work . Also known as a conceit , it is used by poets to develop an idea or concept in great detail over the length of a poem. (And we have some metaphor examples for you below.)

If you’d like to get a sense of the indispensable role that metaphors play in poetry, look no further than what Robert Frost once said: “They are having night schools now, you know, for college graduates. Why? Because they don’t know when they are being fooled by a metaphor. Education by poetry is education by metaphor.”

Poets use metaphors directly in the text to explain emotions and opinions:

26. She must make him happy. She must be his favorite place in Minneapolis. You are a souvenir shop, where he goes to remember how much people miss him when he is gone. —“ Unrequited Love Poem ,” Sierra DeMulder

27. She is all states, and all princes, I. Nothing else is. Princes do but play us; compared to this, All honour's mimic, all wealth alchemy. —“ The Sun Rising ,” John Donne

28. I watched a girl in a sundress kiss another girl on a park bench, and just as the sunlight spilled perfectly onto both of their hair, I thought to myself: How bravely beautiful it is, that sometimes, the sea wants the city, even when it has been told its entire life it was meant for the shore. —“I Watched A Girl In A Sundress,” Christopher Poindexter

Extended metaphors in particular explore and advance major themes in poems:

29. All our words are but crumbs that fall down from the feast of the mind. Thinking is always the stumbling stone to poetry. A great singer is he who sings our silences. How can you sing if your mouth be filled with food? How shall your hand be raised in blessing if it is filled with gold? They say the nightingale pierces his bosom with a thorn when he sings his love song. —“ Sand and Foam ,” Khalil Gibran

30. But a BIRD that stalks down his narrow cage / Can seldom see through his bars of rage / His wings are clipped and his feet are tied So he opens his throat to sing. —“ Caged Bird ,” Maya Angelou

31. Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by / And that has made all the difference. —“ The Road Not Taken ,” Robert Frost

32. Marriage is not a house or even a tent it is before that, and colder: the edge of the forest, the edge of the desert the edge of the receding glacier where painfully and with wonder at having survived even this far we are learning to make fire —“ Habitation ,” Margaret Atwood

33. These poems do not live: it's a sad diagnosis. They grew their toes and fingers well enough, Their little foreheads bulged with concentration. If they missed out on walking about like people It wasn't for any lack of mother-love. —“ Stillborn ,” Sylvia Plath

34. Hope is the thing with feathers / That perches in the soul / And sings the tune without the words / And never stops at all. —“ Hope Is The Thing With Feathers ,” Emily Dickinson

Daily Expressions

Here’s some food for thought (35): you’ve probably already used a metaphor (or more) in your daily speech today without even realizing it. Metaphorical expressions pepper the English language by helping us illustrate and pinpoint exactly what we want to say. As a result, metaphors are everywhere in our common vocabulary: you may even be drowning in a sea (36) of them as we speak. But let’s cut to our list of metaphor examples before we jump the shark (37).

38. Love is a battlefield.

39. You’ve given me something to chew on.

40. He’s just blowing off steam.

41. That is music to my ears.

42. Love is a fine wine.

43. She’s a thorn in my side.

44. You are the light in my life.

45. He has the heart of a lion.

46. Am I talking to a brick wall?

47. He has ants in his pants.

48. Beauty is a fading flower.

49. She has a heart of stone.

50. Fear is a beast that feeds on attention.

51. Life is a journey.

52. He’s a late bloomer.

53. He is a lame duck now.

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Metaphors are a must-have tool in every lyricist’s toolkit. From Elvis to Beyonce, songwriters use them to instinctively connect listeners to imagery and paint a visual for them. Most of the time, they find new ways to describe people, love — and, of course, break-ups. So if you’re thinking, “This is so sad Alexa play Titanium,” right now, you’re in the right place: here’s a look at some metaphor examples in songs.

54. You ain't nothin' but a hound dog / Cryin' all the time —“Hound Dog,” Elvis Presley

55. You're a fallen star / You're the getaway car / You're the line in the sand / When I go too far / You're the swimming pool / On an August day / And you're the perfect thing to say — “Everything,” Michael Buble

56. 'Cause baby you're a firework / Come on show 'em what your worth / Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!" / As you shoot across the sky-y-y — “Firework,” Katy Perry

57. I'm bulletproof nothing to lose / Fire away, fire away / Ricochet, you take your aim / Fire away, fire away / You shoot me down but I won't fall, I am titanium —“Titanium,” David Guetta

58. Life is a highway / I wanna ride it all night long / If you're going my way / I wanna drive it all night long —“Life Is A Highway,” Rascal Flatts

59. She's a Saturn with a sunroof / With her brown hair a-blowing / She's a soft place to land / And a good feeling knowing / She's a warm conversation —“She’s Everything,” Brad Paisley

60. I'm a marquise diamond / Could even make that Tiffany jealous / You say I give it to you hard / So bad, so bad / Make you never wanna leave / I won't, I won't —“Good For You,’ Selena Gomez

61. Remember those walls I built / Well, baby, they're tumbling down / And they didn't even put up a fight / They didn't even make a sound —“Halo,” Beyonce

62. Did I ever tell you you're my hero? / You're everything, everything I wish I could be / Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle / For you are the wind beneath my wings / 'Cause you are the wind beneath my wings —“Wind Beneath My Wings,” Bette Midler

63. You are my fire / The one desire / Believe when I say I want it that way —“I Want It That Way,” Backstreet Boys

64. Your body is a wonderland / Your body is a wonder (I'll use my hands) / Your body is a wonderland —“Your Body Is A Wonderland,” John Mayer

65. I'm walking on sunshine (Wow!) / I'm walking on sunshine (Wow!) / I'm walking on sunshine (Wow!) / And don't it feel good —“I’m Walking On Sunshine,” Katrina and the Waves

66. If you wanna be with me / Baby there's a price to pay / I'm a genie in a bottle / You gotta rub me the right way —“Genie in a Bottle,” Christina Aguilera

67. If God is a DJ, life is a dance floor / Love is the rhythm, you are the music / If God is a DJ, life is a dance floor / You get what you're given it's all how you use it —“God Is A DJ,” P!nk

68. If this town / Is just an apple / Then let me take a bite —“Human Nature,” Michael Jackson

69. I just wanna be part of your symphony / Will you hold me tight and not let go? —“Symphony,” Clean Bandit

70. My heart's a stereo / It beats for you, so listen close / Hear my thoughts in every note —“Stereo Hearts,” Gym Class Heroes

71. I'm the sunshine in your hair / I'm the shadow on the ground / I'm the whisper in the wind / I'm your imaginary friend —“I’m Already There,” Lonestar

Films can add a different angle to the concept of a metaphor: because it’s a visual medium, certain objects on-screen will actually represent whatever the filmmaker intends it to represent. The same principle applies, of course — there’s still a direct comparison being made. It’s just that we can see the metaphor examples with our own eyes now.

Films can visually make clear comparisons between two elements on the screen:

72. “What beautiful blossoms we have this year. But look, this one’s late. I’ll bet that when it blooms it will be the most beautiful of all.” —from  Mulan

73. “Love is an open door Can I say something crazy? Will you marry me? Can I say something even crazier? Yes!” —from  Frozen

Metaphors are used in dialogue for characters to express themselves:

74. “You're television incarnate, Diana. Indifferent to suffering, insensitive to joy.” — Network

75. “Life's a climb. But the view is great.” — Hannah Montana: the Movie

Famous Quotations

Did you know that Plato was using metaphors to express his thoughts all the way back in 427 BC? Since then, some of our greatest minds have continued to turn to metaphors when illuminating ideas in front of the general public — a practice that’s become particularly prominent in political speeches and pithy witticisms. Here’s a sample of some of the ways that famous quotes have incorporated metaphor examples in the past.

76. “All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree.” —Albert Einstein

77. “A good conscience is a continual Christmas.” —Benjamin Franklin

78. “America has tossed its cap over the wall of space.” —John F. Kennedy

79. “I don't approve of political jokes; I have seen too many of them get elected.” —Jon Stewart

80. “Conscience is a man’s compass.” —Vincent Van Gogh

81. “In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” —Albert Camus

82. “Time is the moving image of eternity.” ―Plato

83. “Every human is a school subject. This is rather a metaphorical way of saying it, to put it straight, those you love are few, and the ones you detest are many.” ―Michael Bassey Johnson

84. “Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there.” —Will Rogers

85. “Life is little more than a loan shark: it exacts a very high rate of interest for the few pleasures it concedes.” —Luigi Pirandello

86. “America: in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words.  With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come.” —Barack Obama

87. “Bolshevism is a ghoul descending from a pile of skulls. It is not a policy; it is a disease. It is not a creed; it is a pestilence.” —Winston Churchill

88. “Books are mirrors of the soul.” —Virginia Woolf

89. “My life has a superb cast, but I can't figure out the plot.” —Ashleigh Brilliant

90. “I feel like we’re all in a super shitty Escape Room with really obvious clues like, ‘vote’ and ‘believe women’ and ‘don’t put children in cages.’” — Natasha Rothwell

91. “I travel the world, and I'm happy to say that America is still the great melting pot — maybe a chunky stew rather than a melting pot at this point, but you know what I mean.” —Philip Glass

92. “Life is a long road on a short journey.” —James Lendall Basford

93. “What therefore is truth? A mobile army of metaphors, metonymies, anthropomorphisms: in short a sum of human relations which become poetically and rhetorically intensified, metamorphosed, adorned, and after long usage seem to a nation fixed, canonic and binding.” —Nietzsche

94. “Life is a foreign language: all men mispronounce it.” —Christopher Morley

95. “Dying is a wild night and a new road.” —Emily Dickinson

96. “And your very flesh shall be a great poem.” —Walt Whitman

And as a bonus gift, here’s one last metaphor for the road, from one of our brightest philosophers. We’ll let Calvin have the last word:

Did we miss any of your favorite metaphors? Have more metaphor examples for us? Leave them in the (non-metaphorical) box below and we'll add them right in.

6 responses

James Hubbs says:

21/10/2018 – 23:44

Very useful article. Thank you. However, Fahrenheit 451 was written by Ray Bradbury, not George Orwell.

↪️ Reedsy replied:

22/10/2018 – 00:42

Great spot, James! That's now been fixed. Glad that the article was useful :)

Jonboy says:

21/05/2019 – 19:11

That Sylvia Plath quote nailed me. Ouch! Haven't read it but have to now...

21/06/2019 – 17:02

Another metaphor I love is “I’m just like them— an ordinary drone dressed in secrets and lies.” It’s from Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

DAVID COWART says:

18/11/2019 – 01:59

life is a highway is Tom Cochrane, not Rascal Flats

↪️ Martin Cavannagh replied:

22/11/2019 – 12:54

Rascal Flatts did a cover of the song. We were deciding between the two and decided that "Rascal Flatts" sounded funnier :D

Comments are currently closed.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 177 college essay examples for 11 schools + expert analysis.

College Admissions , College Essays

The personal statement might just be the hardest part of your college application. Mostly this is because it has the least guidance and is the most open-ended. One way to understand what colleges are looking for when they ask you to write an essay is to check out the essays of students who already got in—college essays that actually worked. After all, they must be among the most successful of this weird literary genre.

In this article, I'll go through general guidelines for what makes great college essays great. I've also compiled an enormous list of 100+ actual sample college essays from 11 different schools. Finally, I'll break down two of these published college essay examples and explain why and how they work. With links to 177 full essays and essay excerpts , this article is a great resource for learning how to craft your own personal college admissions essay!

What Excellent College Essays Have in Common

Even though in many ways these sample college essays are very different from one other, they do share some traits you should try to emulate as you write your own essay.

Visible Signs of Planning

Building out from a narrow, concrete focus. You'll see a similar structure in many of the essays. The author starts with a very detailed story of an event or description of a person or place. After this sense-heavy imagery, the essay expands out to make a broader point about the author, and connects this very memorable experience to the author's present situation, state of mind, newfound understanding, or maturity level.

Knowing how to tell a story. Some of the experiences in these essays are one-of-a-kind. But most deal with the stuff of everyday life. What sets them apart is the way the author approaches the topic: analyzing it for drama and humor, for its moving qualities, for what it says about the author's world, and for how it connects to the author's emotional life.

Stellar Execution

A killer first sentence. You've heard it before, and you'll hear it again: you have to suck the reader in, and the best place to do that is the first sentence. Great first sentences are punchy. They are like cliffhangers, setting up an exciting scene or an unusual situation with an unclear conclusion, in order to make the reader want to know more. Don't take my word for it—check out these 22 first sentences from Stanford applicants and tell me you don't want to read the rest of those essays to find out what happens!

A lively, individual voice. Writing is for readers. In this case, your reader is an admissions officer who has read thousands of essays before yours and will read thousands after. Your goal? Don't bore your reader. Use interesting descriptions, stay away from clichés, include your own offbeat observations—anything that makes this essay sounds like you and not like anyone else.

Technical correctness. No spelling mistakes, no grammar weirdness, no syntax issues, no punctuation snafus—each of these sample college essays has been formatted and proofread perfectly. If this kind of exactness is not your strong suit, you're in luck! All colleges advise applicants to have their essays looked over several times by parents, teachers, mentors, and anyone else who can spot a comma splice. Your essay must be your own work, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with getting help polishing it.

And if you need more guidance, connect with PrepScholar's expert admissions consultants . These expert writers know exactly what college admissions committees look for in an admissions essay and chan help you craft an essay that boosts your chances of getting into your dream school.

Check out PrepScholar's Essay Editing and Coaching progra m for more details!

Links to Full College Essay Examples

Some colleges publish a selection of their favorite accepted college essays that worked, and I've put together a selection of over 100 of these.

Common App Essay Samples

Please note that some of these college essay examples may be responding to prompts that are no longer in use. The current Common App prompts are as follows:

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. 2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? 3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? 4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? 5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. 6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of 177 college essay examples responding to current and past Common App essay prompts. 

Connecticut college.

• 12 Common Application essays from the classes of 2022-2025

Hamilton College

• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2026
• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2022
• 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2018
• 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2012
• 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2007

Johns Hopkins

These essays are answers to past prompts from either the Common Application or the Coalition Application (which Johns Hopkins used to accept).

• 1 Common Application or Coalition Application essay from the class of 2026
• 6 Common Application or Coalition Application essays from the class of 2025
• 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2024
• 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2023
• 7 Common Application of Universal Application essays from the class of 2022
• 5 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2021
• 7 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2020

Essay Examples Published by Other Websites

• 2 Common Application essays ( 1st essay , 2nd essay ) from applicants admitted to Columbia

Other Sample College Essays

Here is a collection of essays that are college-specific.

Babson College

• 4 essays (and 1 video response) on "Why Babson" from the class of 2020

Emory University

• 5 essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) from the class of 2020 along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on why the essays were exceptional
• 5 more recent essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on what made these essays stand out

University of Georgia

• 1 “strong essay” sample from 2019
• 1 “strong essay” sample from 2018
• 10 Harvard essays from 2023
• 10 Harvard essays from 2022
• 10 Harvard essays from 2021
• 10 Harvard essays from 2020
• 10 Harvard essays from 2019
• 10 Harvard essays from 2018
• 6 essays from admitted MIT students

Smith College

• 6 "best gift" essays from the class of 2018

Books of College Essays

If you're looking for even more sample college essays, consider purchasing a college essay book. The best of these include dozens of essays that worked and feedback from real admissions officers.

College Essays That Made a Difference —This detailed guide from Princeton Review includes not only successful essays, but also interviews with admissions officers and full student profiles.

50 Successful Harvard Application Essays by the Staff of the Harvard Crimson—A must for anyone aspiring to Harvard .

50 Successful Ivy League Application Essays and 50 Successful Stanford Application Essays by Gen and Kelly Tanabe—For essays from other top schools, check out this venerated series, which is regularly updated with new essays.

Heavenly Essays by Janine W. Robinson—This collection from the popular blogger behind Essay Hell includes a wider range of schools, as well as helpful tips on honing your own essay.

Analyzing Great Common App Essays That Worked

I've picked two essays from the examples collected above to examine in more depth so that you can see exactly what makes a successful college essay work. Full credit for these essays goes to the original authors and the schools that published them.

Example 1: "Breaking Into Cars," by Stephen, Johns Hopkins Class of '19 (Common App Essay, 636 words long)

I had never broken into a car before.

We were in Laredo, having just finished our first day at a Habitat for Humanity work site. The Hotchkiss volunteers had already left, off to enjoy some Texas BBQ, leaving me behind with the college kids to clean up. Not until we were stranded did we realize we were locked out of the van.

Someone picked a coat hanger out of the dumpster, handed it to me, and took a few steps back.

"Can you do that thing with a coat hanger to unlock it?"

"Why me?" I thought.

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame. Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally. My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed. "The water's on fire! Clear a hole!" he shouted, tossing me in the lake without warning. While I'm still unconvinced about that particular lesson's practicality, my Dad's overarching message is unequivocally true: much of life is unexpected, and you have to deal with the twists and turns.

Living in my family, days rarely unfolded as planned. A bit overlooked, a little pushed around, I learned to roll with reality, negotiate a quick deal, and give the improbable a try. I don't sweat the small stuff, and I definitely don't expect perfect fairness. So what if our dining room table only has six chairs for seven people? Someone learns the importance of punctuality every night.

But more than punctuality and a special affinity for musical chairs, my family life has taught me to thrive in situations over which I have no power. Growing up, I never controlled my older siblings, but I learned how to thwart their attempts to control me. I forged alliances, and realigned them as necessary. Sometimes, I was the poor, defenseless little brother; sometimes I was the omniscient elder. Different things to different people, as the situation demanded. I learned to adapt.

Back then, these techniques were merely reactions undertaken to ensure my survival. But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The question caught me off guard, much like the question posed to me in Laredo. Then, I realized I knew the answer. I knew why the coat hanger had been handed to me.

Growing up as the middle child in my family, I was a vital participant in a thing I did not govern, in the company of people I did not choose. It's family. It's society. And often, it's chaos. You participate by letting go of the small stuff, not expecting order and perfection, and facing the unexpected with confidence, optimism, and preparedness. My family experience taught me to face a serendipitous world with confidence.

What Makes This Essay Tick?

It's very helpful to take writing apart in order to see just how it accomplishes its objectives. Stephen's essay is very effective. Let's find out why!

An Opening Line That Draws You In

In just eight words, we get: scene-setting (he is standing next to a car about to break in), the idea of crossing a boundary (he is maybe about to do an illegal thing for the first time), and a cliffhanger (we are thinking: is he going to get caught? Is he headed for a life of crime? Is he about to be scared straight?).

Great, Detailed Opening Story

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame.

It's the details that really make this small experience come alive. Notice how whenever he can, Stephen uses a more specific, descriptive word in place of a more generic one. The volunteers aren't going to get food or dinner; they're going for "Texas BBQ." The coat hanger comes from "a dumpster." Stephen doesn't just move the coat hanger—he "jiggles" it.

Details also help us visualize the emotions of the people in the scene. The person who hands Stephen the coat hanger isn't just uncomfortable or nervous; he "takes a few steps back"—a description of movement that conveys feelings. Finally, the detail of actual speech makes the scene pop. Instead of writing that the other guy asked him to unlock the van, Stephen has the guy actually say his own words in a way that sounds like a teenager talking.

Turning a Specific Incident Into a Deeper Insight

Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

Stephen makes the locked car experience a meaningful illustration of how he has learned to be resourceful and ready for anything, and he also makes this turn from the specific to the broad through an elegant play on the two meanings of the word "click."

Using Concrete Examples When Making Abstract Claims

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally.

"Unpredictability and chaos" are very abstract, not easily visualized concepts. They could also mean any number of things—violence, abandonment, poverty, mental instability. By instantly following up with highly finite and unambiguous illustrations like "family of seven" and "siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing," Stephen grounds the abstraction in something that is easy to picture: a large, noisy family.

Using Small Bits of Humor and Casual Word Choice

My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed.

Obviously, knowing how to clean burning oil is not high on the list of things every 9-year-old needs to know. To emphasize this, Stephen uses sarcasm by bringing up a situation that is clearly over-the-top: "in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed."

The humor also feels relaxed. Part of this is because he introduces it with the colloquial phrase "you know," so it sounds like he is talking to us in person. This approach also diffuses the potential discomfort of the reader with his father's strictness—since he is making jokes about it, clearly he is OK. Notice, though, that this doesn't occur very much in the essay. This helps keep the tone meaningful and serious rather than flippant.

An Ending That Stretches the Insight Into the Future

But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The ending of the essay reveals that Stephen's life has been one long preparation for the future. He has emerged from chaos and his dad's approach to parenting as a person who can thrive in a world that he can't control.

This connection of past experience to current maturity and self-knowledge is a key element in all successful personal essays. Colleges are very much looking for mature, self-aware applicants. These are the qualities of successful college students, who will be able to navigate the independence college classes require and the responsibility and quasi-adulthood of college life.

What Could This Essay Do Even Better?

Even the best essays aren't perfect, and even the world's greatest writers will tell you that writing is never "finished"—just "due." So what would we tweak in this essay if we could?

Replace some of the clichéd language. Stephen uses handy phrases like "twists and turns" and "don't sweat the small stuff" as a kind of shorthand for explaining his relationship to chaos and unpredictability. But using too many of these ready-made expressions runs the risk of clouding out your own voice and replacing it with something expected and boring.

Use another example from recent life. Stephen's first example (breaking into the van in Laredo) is a great illustration of being resourceful in an unexpected situation. But his essay also emphasizes that he "learned to adapt" by being "different things to different people." It would be great to see how this plays out outside his family, either in the situation in Laredo or another context.

Example 2: By Renner Kwittken, Tufts Class of '23 (Common App Essay, 645 words long)

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver. I saw it in my favorite book, Richard Scarry's "Cars and Trucks and Things That Go," and for some reason, I was absolutely obsessed with the idea of driving a giant pickle. Much to the discontent of my younger sister, I insisted that my parents read us that book as many nights as possible so we could find goldbug, a small little golden bug, on every page. I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Then I discovered a real goldbug: gold nanoparticles that can reprogram macrophages to assist in killing tumors, produce clear images of them without sacrificing the subject, and heat them to obliteration.

Suddenly the destination of my pickle was clear.

I quickly became enveloped by the world of nanomedicine; I scoured articles about liposomes, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, targeting ligands, and self-assembling nanoparticles, all conquering cancer in some exotic way. Completely absorbed, I set out to find a mentor to dive even deeper into these topics. After several rejections, I was immensely grateful to receive an invitation to work alongside Dr. Sangeeta Ray at Johns Hopkins.

In the lab, Dr. Ray encouraged a great amount of autonomy to design and implement my own procedures. I chose to attack a problem that affects the entire field of nanomedicine: nanoparticles consistently fail to translate from animal studies into clinical trials. Jumping off recent literature, I set out to see if a pre-dose of a common chemotherapeutic could enhance nanoparticle delivery in aggressive prostate cancer, creating three novel constructs based on three different linear polymers, each using fluorescent dye (although no gold, sorry goldbug!). Though using radioactive isotopes like Gallium and Yttrium would have been incredible, as a 17-year-old, I unfortunately wasn't allowed in the same room as these radioactive materials (even though I took a Geiger counter to a pair of shoes and found them to be slightly dangerous).

I hadn't expected my hypothesis to work, as the research project would have ideally been led across two full years. Yet while there are still many optimizations and revisions to be done, I was thrilled to find -- with completely new nanoparticles that may one day mean future trials will use particles with the initials "RK-1" -- thatcyclophosphamide did indeed increase nanoparticle delivery to the tumor in a statistically significant way.

A secondary, unexpected research project was living alone in Baltimore, a new city to me, surrounded by people much older than I. Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research. Whether in a presentation or in a casual conversation, making others interested in science is perhaps more exciting to me than the research itself. This solidified a new pursuit to angle my love for writing towards illuminating science in ways people can understand, adding value to a society that can certainly benefit from more scientific literacy.

It seems fitting that my goals are still transforming: in Scarry's book, there is not just one goldbug, there is one on every page. With each new experience, I'm learning that it isn't the goldbug itself, but rather the act of searching for the goldbugs that will encourage, shape, and refine my ever-evolving passions. Regardless of the goldbug I seek -- I know my pickle truck has just begun its journey.

Renner takes a somewhat different approach than Stephen, but their essay is just as detailed and engaging. Let's go through some of the strengths of this essay.

One Clear Governing Metaphor

This essay is ultimately about two things: Renner’s dreams and future career goals, and Renner’s philosophy on goal-setting and achieving one’s dreams.

But instead of listing off all the amazing things they’ve done to pursue their dream of working in nanomedicine, Renner tells a powerful, unique story instead. To set up the narrative, Renner opens the essay by connecting their experiences with goal-setting and dream-chasing all the way back to a memorable childhood experience:

This lighthearted–but relevant!--story about the moment when Renner first developed a passion for a specific career (“finding the goldbug”) provides an anchor point for the rest of the essay. As Renner pivots to describing their current dreams and goals–working in nanomedicine–the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” is reflected in Renner’s experiments, rejections, and new discoveries.

Though Renner tells multiple stories about their quest to “find the goldbug,” or, in other words, pursue their passion, each story is connected by a unifying theme; namely, that as we search and grow over time, our goals will transform…and that’s okay! By the end of the essay, Renner uses the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” to reiterate the relevance of the opening story:

While the earlier parts of the essay convey Renner’s core message by showing, the final, concluding paragraph sums up Renner’s insights by telling. By briefly and clearly stating the relevance of the goldbug metaphor to their own philosophy on goals and dreams, Renner demonstrates their creativity, insight, and eagerness to grow and evolve as the journey continues into college.

An Engaging, Individual Voice

This essay uses many techniques that make Renner sound genuine and make the reader feel like we already know them.

Technique #1: humor. Notice Renner's gentle and relaxed humor that lightly mocks their younger self's grand ambitions (this is different from the more sarcastic kind of humor used by Stephen in the first essay—you could never mistake one writer for the other).

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver.

I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Renner gives a great example of how to use humor to your advantage in college essays. You don’t want to come off as too self-deprecating or sarcastic, but telling a lightheartedly humorous story about your younger self that also showcases how you’ve grown and changed over time can set the right tone for your entire essay.

Technique #2: intentional, eye-catching structure. The second technique is the way Renner uses a unique structure to bolster the tone and themes of their essay . The structure of your essay can have a major impact on how your ideas come across…so it’s important to give it just as much thought as the content of your essay!

For instance, Renner does a great job of using one-line paragraphs to create dramatic emphasis and to make clear transitions from one phase of the story to the next:

Suddenly the destination of my pickle car was clear.

Not only does the one-liner above signal that Renner is moving into a new phase of the narrative (their nanoparticle research experiences), it also tells the reader that this is a big moment in Renner’s story. It’s clear that Renner made a major discovery that changed the course of their goal pursuit and dream-chasing. Through structure, Renner conveys excitement and entices the reader to keep pushing forward to the next part of the story.

Technique #3: playing with syntax. The third technique is to use sentences of varying length, syntax, and structure. Most of the essay's written in standard English and uses grammatically correct sentences. However, at key moments, Renner emphasizes that the reader needs to sit up and pay attention by switching to short, colloquial, differently punctuated, and sometimes fragmented sentences.

Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research.

In the examples above, Renner switches adeptly between long, flowing sentences and quippy, telegraphic ones. At the same time, Renner uses these different sentence lengths intentionally. As they describe their experiences in new places, they use longer sentences to immerse the reader in the sights, smells, and sounds of those experiences. And when it’s time to get a big, key idea across, Renner switches to a short, punchy sentence to stop the reader in their tracks.

The varying syntax and sentence lengths pull the reader into the narrative and set up crucial “aha” moments when it’s most important…which is a surefire way to make any college essay stand out.

Renner's essay is very strong, but there are still a few little things that could be improved.

Connecting the research experiences to the theme of “finding the goldbug.”  The essay begins and ends with Renner’s connection to the idea of “finding the goldbug.” And while this metaphor is deftly tied into the essay’s intro and conclusion, it isn’t entirely clear what Renner’s big findings were during the research experiences that are described in the middle of the essay. It would be great to add a sentence or two stating what Renner’s big takeaways (or “goldbugs”) were from these experiences, which add more cohesion to the essay as a whole.

Give more details about discovering the world of nanomedicine. It makes sense that Renner wants to get into the details of their big research experiences as quickly as possible. After all, these are the details that show Renner’s dedication to nanomedicine! But a smoother transition from the opening pickle car/goldbug story to Renner’s “real goldbug” of nanoparticles would help the reader understand why nanoparticles became Renner’s goldbug. Finding out why Renner is so motivated to study nanomedicine–and perhaps what put them on to this field of study–would help readers fully understand why Renner chose this path in the first place.

4 Essential Tips for Writing Your Own Essay

How can you use this discussion to better your own college essay? Here are some suggestions for ways to use this resource effectively.

#1: Get Help From the Experts

Getting your college applications together takes a lot of work and can be pretty intimidatin g. Essays are even more important than ever now that admissions processes are changing and schools are going test-optional and removing diversity standards thanks to new Supreme Court rulings .  If you want certified expert help that really makes a difference, get started with  PrepScholar’s Essay Editing and Coaching program. Our program can help you put together an incredible essay from idea to completion so that your application stands out from the crowd. We've helped students get into the best colleges in the United States, including Harvard, Stanford, and Yale.  If you're ready to take the next step and boost your odds of getting into your dream school, connect with our experts today .

#2: Read Other Essays to Get Ideas for Your Own

As you go through the essays we've compiled for you above, ask yourself the following questions:

• Can you explain to yourself (or someone else!) why the opening sentence works well?
• Look for the essay's detailed personal anecdote. What senses is the author describing? Can you easily picture the scene in your mind's eye?
• Find the place where this anecdote bridges into a larger insight about the author. How does the essay connect the two? How does the anecdote work as an example of the author's characteristic, trait, or skill?
• Check out the essay's tone. If it's funny, can you find the places where the humor comes from? If it's sad and moving, can you find the imagery and description of feelings that make you moved? If it's serious, can you see how word choice adds to this tone?

Make a note whenever you find an essay or part of an essay that you think was particularly well-written, and think about what you like about it . Is it funny? Does it help you really get to know the writer? Does it show what makes the writer unique? Once you have your list, keep it next to you while writing your essay to remind yourself to try and use those same techniques in your own essay.

#3: Find Your "A-Ha!" Moment

All of these essays rely on connecting with the reader through a heartfelt, highly descriptive scene from the author's life. It can either be very dramatic (did you survive a plane crash?) or it can be completely mundane (did you finally beat your dad at Scrabble?). Either way, it should be personal and revealing about you, your personality, and the way you are now that you are entering the adult world.

Check out essays by authors like John Jeremiah Sullivan , Leslie Jamison , Hanif Abdurraqib , and Esmé Weijun Wang to get more examples of how to craft a compelling personal narrative.

#4: Start Early, Revise Often

Let me level with you: the best writing isn't writing at all. It's rewriting. And in order to have time to rewrite, you have to start way before the application deadline. My advice is to write your first draft at least two months before your applications are due.

Let it sit for a few days untouched. Then come back to it with fresh eyes and think critically about what you've written. What's extra? What's missing? What is in the wrong place? What doesn't make sense? Don't be afraid to take it apart and rearrange sections. Do this several times over, and your essay will be much better for it!

For more editing tips, check out a style guide like Dreyer's English or Eats, Shoots & Leaves .

What's Next?

Still not sure which colleges you want to apply to? Our experts will show you how to make a college list that will help you choose a college that's right for you.

Interested in learning more about college essays? Check out our detailed breakdown of exactly how personal statements work in an application , some suggestions on what to avoid when writing your essay , and our guide to writing about your extracurricular activities .

Working on the rest of your application? Read what admissions officers wish applicants knew before applying .

The recommendations in this post are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Anna scored in the 99th percentile on her SATs in high school, and went on to major in English at Princeton and to get her doctorate in English Literature at Columbia. She is passionate about improving student access to higher education.

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Metaphors and Analogies: How to Use Them in Your Academic Life

Certain Experiences in life can't be captured in simple words. Especially if you are a writer trying to connect with your audience, you will need special threads to evoke exact feelings.

There are many literary devices to spark the readers' imagination, and analogies and metaphors are one of that magical arsenal. They enrich your text and give it the exact depth it will need to increase your readers' heartbeat.

Taking a particular characteristic and associating it with the other not only enriches your text's linguistic quality but gives the reader a correct pathway to deeper layers of a writer's psyche.

In this article, we are going to take a good look at the difference between analogy and metaphor and how to use them in your academic writing, and you will find some of the most powerful examples for each. Learn more about this and other vital linguistic tools on our essay writer service website.

What are Metaphors: Understanding the Concept

Let's discuss the metaphors definition. Metaphors are a figure of speech that compares two unrelated concepts or ideas to create a deeper and more profound meaning. They are a powerful tool in academic writing to express abstract concepts using different analogies, which can improve the reader's understanding of complex topics. Metaphors enable writers to paint vivid pictures in the reader's mind by comparing something familiar with an abstract concept that is harder to grasp.

The following are some of the most famous metaphors and their meanings:

• The world is your oyster - the world is full of opportunities just waiting for you to grab them
• Time is money - time is a valuable commodity that must be spent wisely
• A heart of stone - someone who is emotionally cold and unfeeling

Analogies Meaning: Mastering the Essence

Analogies, on the other hand, are a comparison of two concepts or ideas that have some similarity in their features. They are used to clarify complex ideas or to make a new concept more relatable by comparing it to something that is already familiar.

Analogies are often followed by an explanation of how the two concepts are similar, which helps the reader to understand and make connections between seemingly disparate ideas. For example, in academic writing, if you were explaining the function of a cell membrane, you might use an analogy, such as comparing it to a security gate that regulates what enters and exits a building.

Check out these famous analogies examples:

• Knowledge is like a garden: if it is not cultivated, it cannot be harvested.
• Teaching a child without education is like building a house without a foundation.
• A good friend is like a four-leaf clover; hard to find and lucky to have.

Benefits of Metaphors and Analogies in Writing

Chances are you are wondering why we use analogies and metaphors in academic writing anyway?

The reason why metaphors are beneficial to writers, especially in the academic field, is that they offer an effective approach to clarifying intricate concepts and enriching comprehension by linking them to more familiar ideas. Through the use of relatable frames of reference, these figures of speech help authors communicate complicated notions in an appealing and comprehensible way.

Additionally, analogies and metaphors are a way of artistic expression. They bring creativity and imagination to your writing, making it engaging and memorable for your readers. Beautiful words connect with readers on a deeper emotional level, allowing them to better retain and appreciate the information being presented. Such linguistic devices allow readers to open doors for imagination and create visual images in their minds, creating a more individualized experience.

However, one must be mindful not to plagiarize famous analogies and always use original ideas or appropriately cite sources when necessary. Overall, metaphors and analogies add depth and beauty to write-ups, making them memorable for years to come.

Understanding the Difference Between Analogy and Metaphor

While metaphors and analogies serve the similar purpose of clarifying otherwise complex ideas, they are not quite the same. Follow the article and learn how they differ from each other.

One way to differentiate between analogies and metaphors is through the use of 'as' and 'like.' Analogies make an explicit comparison using these words, while metaphors imply a comparison without any overt indication.

There is an obvious difference between their structure. An analogy has two parts; the primary subject, which is unfamiliar, and a secondary subject which is familiar to the reader. For example, 'Life is like a box of chocolates.' The two subjects are compared, highlighting their similarities in order to explain an entire concept.

On the other hand, a metaphor describes an object or idea by referring to something else that is not literally applicable but shares some common features. For example, 'He drowned in a sea of grief.'

The structural difference also defines the difference in their usage. Analogies are often used in academic writing where hard concepts need to be aligned with an easier and more familiar concept. This assists the reader in comprehending complex ideas more effortlessly. Metaphors, on the other hand, are more often used in creative writing or literature. They bring depth and nuance to language, allowing for abstract ideas to be communicated in a more engaging and imaginative way.

Keep reading and discover examples of metaphors and analogies in both academic and creative writing. While you are at it, our expert writers are ready to provide custom essays and papers which incorporate these literary devices in a seamless and effective way.

Using Famous Analogies Can Raise Plagiarism Concerns!

To avoid the trouble, use our online plagiarism checker and be sure that your work is original before submitting it.

Analogies and Metaphors Examples

There were a few analogies and metaphors examples mentioned along the way, but let's explore a few more to truly understand their power. Below you will find the list of metaphors and analogies, and you will never mistake one for the other again.

• Love is like a rose, beautiful but with thorns.
• The human body is like a machine, with many intricate parts working together in harmony.
• The structure of an atom is similar to a miniature solar system, with electrons orbiting around the nucleus.
• A computer's motherboard is like a city's central system, coordinating and communicating all functions.
• The brain is like a muscle that needs constant exercise to function at its best.
• Studying for exams is like training for a marathon; it requires endurance and preparation.
• Explaining a complex scientific concept is like explaining a foreign language to someone who doesn't speak it.
• A successful team is like a well-oiled machine, with each member playing a crucial role.
• Learning a new skill is like planting a seed; it requires nurturing and patience to see growth.
• Navigating through life is like sailing a ship with unpredictable currents and changing winds.
• Life is a journey with many twists and turns along the way
• The world's a stage, and we are all mere players.
• Her eyes were pools of sorrow, reflecting the pain she felt.
• Time is a thief, stealing away moments we can never recapture.
• Love is a flame, burning brightly but at risk of being extinguished.
• His words were daggers piercing through my heart.
• She had a heart of stone, unable to feel empathy or compassion.
• The city was a jungle, teeming with life and activity.
• Hope is a beacon, guiding us through the darkest of times.
• His anger was a volcano, ready to erupt at any moment.

How to Use Metaphors and Analogies in Writing: Helpful Tips

If you want your readers to have a memorable and engaging experience, you should give them some level of autonomy within your own text. Metaphors and analogies are powerful tools to let your audience do their personal interpretation and logical conclusion while still guiding them in the right direction.

First, learn about your audience and their level of familiarity with the topic you're writing about. Incorporate metaphors and analogies with familiar references. Remember, literary devices should cleverly explain complex concepts. To achieve the goal, remain coherent with the theme of the paper. But be careful not to overuse metaphors or analogies, as too much of a good thing can make your writing feel overloaded.

Use figurative language to evoke visual imagery and breathe life into your paper. Multiple metaphors can turn your paper into a movie. Visualizing ideas will help readers better understand and retain the information.

In conclusion, anytime is a great time to extend your text's impact by adding a well-chosen metaphor or analogy. But perfection is on the border of good and bad, so keep in mind to remain coherent with the theme and not overuse any literary device.

Metaphors: Unveiling Their Cultural Significance

Metaphors are not limited to just academic writing but can also be found in various forms of culture, such as art, music, film, and television. Metaphors have been a popular element in creative expression for centuries and continue to play a significant role in modern-day culture. For instance, metaphors can help artists convey complex emotions through their music or paintings.

Metaphors are often like time capsules, reflecting the cultural and societal values of a particular era. They shelter the prevailing beliefs, ideals, and philosophies of their time - from the pharaohs of ancient Egypt to modern-day pop culture.

Metaphors often frame our perception of the world and can shape our understanding of our surroundings. Certain words can take on new meanings when used metaphorically in certain cultural contexts and can assimilate to the phenomenon it is often compared to.

Here you can find a list of literature and poems with metaphors:

• William Shakespeare loved using metaphors, and here's one from his infamous Macbeth: 'It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.'
• Victor Hugo offers a timeless metaphor in Les Misérables: 'She is a rose, delicate and beautiful, but with thorns to protect her.'
• Robert Frost reminds us of his genius in the poem The Road Not Traveled: 'The road less traveled.'

Movies also contain a wide range of English metaphors:

• A famous metaphor from Toy Story: 'There's a snake in my boot!'
• A metaphor from the famous movie Silver Lining Playbook: 'Life is a game, and true love is a trophy.'
• An all-encompassing and iconic metaphor from the movie Star Wars: 'Fear is the path to the dark side.'

Don't forget about famous songs with beautiful metaphors!

• Bob Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind uses a powerful metaphor when he asks: 'How many roads must a man walk down?'
• A metaphor from Johnny Cash's song Ring of Fire: 'Love is a burning thing, and it makes a fiery ring.'
• Bonnie Tyler's famous lyrics from Total Eclipse of the Heart make a great metaphor: 'Love is a mystery, everyone must stand alone.'

Keep reading the article to find out how to write an essay with the effective use of metaphors in academic writing.

Exploring Types of Metaphors

There is a wide variety of metaphors used in academic writing, literature, music, and film. Different types of metaphors can be used to convey different meanings and create a specific impact or evoke a vivid image.

Some common types of metaphors include similes / simple metaphors, implicit metaphors, explicit metaphors, extended metaphors, mixed metaphors, and dead metaphors. Let's take a closer look at some of these types.

Simple metaphors or similes highlight the similarity between two things using 'like' or 'as.' For example, 'Her eyes were as bright as the stars.'

Implicit metaphors do not make a direct comparison. Instead, they imply the similarity between the two concepts. An example of an implicit metaphor is 'Her words cut deep,' where the similarity between words and a knife is implied. Good metaphors are often implicit since they require the reader to use their own understanding and imagination to understand the comparison being made.

Explicit metaphors are straightforward, making a clear comparison between two things. For instance, 'He is a shining star.'

An extended metaphor, on the other hand, stretches the comparison throughout an entire literary work or section of a text. This type of metaphor allows the writer to create a more complex and elaborate comparison, enhancing the reader's understanding of the subject.

Mixed metaphors combine two or more unrelated metaphors, often leading to confusion and lack of clarity. If you are not an expert on the subject, try to avoid using confusing literary devices.

Dead metaphors are another danger. These are metaphors that have been overused to the extent that they have lost their original impact, becoming clichés and not being able to evoke original visual images.

In academic writing, metaphors create a powerful impact on the reader, adding color and depth to everyday language. However, they need to be well-placed and intentional. Using an inappropriate or irrelevant metaphor may confuse readers and distract them from the main message. If you want to avoid trouble, pay for essay writing service that can help you use metaphors effectively in your academic writing.

Exploring Types of Analogies

Like metaphors, analogies are divided into several categories. Some of the common types include literal analogies, figurative analogies, descriptive analogies, causal analogies, and false/dubious analogies. In academic writing, analogies are useful for explaining complex ideas or phenomena in a way that is easy to understand.

Literal analogies are direct comparisons of two things with similar characteristics or features. For instance, 'The brain is like a computer.'

Figurative analogies, on the other hand, compare two unrelated things to highlight a particular characteristic. For example, 'The mind is a garden that needs to be tended.'

Descriptive analogies focus on the detailed similarities between two things, even if they are not immediately apparent. For example, 'The relationship between a supervisor and an employee is like that of a coach and a player, where the coach guides the player to perform at their best.'

Causal analogies are used to explain the relationship between a cause and an effect. For instance, 'The increase in global temperatures is like a fever caused by environmental pollution.'

Finally, false/dubious analogies are comparisons that suggest a similarity between two things that actually have little in common. For example, 'Getting a college degree is like winning the lottery.'

If you are trying to explain a foreign concept to an audience that may not be familiar with it, analogies can help create a bridge and make the concept more relatable. However, coming up with a perfect analogy takes a lot of time. If you are looking for ways on how to write an essay fast , explore our blog and learn even more.

If you want your academic papers to stand out and be engaging for the reader, using metaphors and analogies can be a powerful tool. Now that you know the difference between analogy and metaphor, you can use them wisely to create a bridge between complex ideas and your audience.

Explore our blog for more information on different writing techniques, and check out our essay writing service for more help on crafting the perfect papers.

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Metaphor – Definition & Examples In Academic Writing

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In the realm of academic writing , clarity and precision are key, but occasionally a straightforward sentence just isn’t enough. This is where metaphors come in, serving as powerful tools to illuminate complex ideas. Far from mere decorative flourishes, they simplify, clarify, and deepen academic arguments, as demonstrated in this article with examples. Furthermore, we will explore the utility and appropriateness of employing these figures of speech in various academic disciplines.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 Metaphor in a nutshell
• 2 Definition: Metaphor
• 3 Metaphor examples
• 5 Metaphor synonyms
• 6 Simile and analogy
• 7 Metaphors in academic writing
• 8 How to come up with a metaphor
• 9 What does “metaphorically” mean?

Metaphor in a nutshell

What is a metaphor? It’s a way of describing something by saying it is something else.  You can consider it to be a comparison with an image. For example, when you say, “Life is a roller coaster”, you’re using a metaphor. This is because a roller coaster visualizes the ups and downs and turns of life physically. You don’t mean that life is literally a roller coaster, but you’re suggesting that life has ups and downs, twists and turns, just like a roller coaster ride. So, it helps us understand one thing by comparing it to another thing that we’re already familiar with. It’s like a shortcut for explaining what something is like, making it easier to understand or more interesting to think about.

Definition: Metaphor

The definitions of metaphor often describe it as a figure of speech where one thing is elaborated on as if it were something else, helping to create more vivid imagery in our minds. In simpler terms, the meaning of a metaphor is to explain one thing by directly comparing it to something else, even though the two things are not usually alike. For the comparison, you choose a picture that you use to explain and illustrate the characteristics of the issue you are explaining. Using figurative language, we can convey complex ideas in an easy-to-understand manner by illuminating the characteristics of one thing through the familiar aspects of another. They are found in folk or field songs, films, popular songs, and even presidential speeches.

• Eyes are the windows to the soul.
• This is the icing on the cake.
• She’s going through a rollercoaster of emotions.
• He’s got the stench of failure.
• The world is a stage.

The term “metaphor” has its roots in the Greek language, originating from the word “metaphora”, which itself is derived from the verb ”metapherein”.

• “meta-“ means “across” or “beyond”
• “pherein” means “to carry”

When putting these parts together, “metapherein” literally translates to “carry across” or “transfer”. This etymological background provides insight into the core function: to carry the qualities or meaning of one concept or object across to another. In essence, it serves as a linguistic bridge that links two unrelated things, allowing us to understand one in terms of the other.

Metaphor examples

They are pervasive in both everyday speech and specialized fields, illustrating concepts with clarity and nuance. Understanding a few examples can illuminate their utility and versatility.

Everyday examples

Time is money.

• It suggests that time, like money, is a valuable resource that should not be wasted.
• Love is a battlefield.
• Popularized by the Pat Benatar song, here it is implied that love involves struggle, conflict, and occasional casualties.

He is a couch potato.

• A couch potato refers to a person who constantly sits on the sofa and never leaves the house. Essentially, a very lazy person.

Literary examples

The road not taken.

• Robert Frost’s poem uses a diverging road to symbolize the choices we make in life.

Moby Dick as nature’s fury.

• In Herman Melville’s novel, the white whale serves as a figure of speech for uncontrollable natural forces against which humans struggle.

Pup culture examples

The Force in Star Wars.

• The Force serves various forms of energy, power, and morality, blending spiritual and physical concepts.

The Matrix.

• In the film, the Matrix serves as confining illusions or societal norms that people live by but may not be aware of.

Academic examples

The mind is a computer.

• In cognitive science, this helps explain the complex mental processes using the familiar framework of computer operations.

Economic landscape.

• Economists describe the state of an economy as a “landscape” to imply its diverse and multifaceted nature.

Cells as factories.

• Cells are frequently compared to factories to help explain how they produce proteins and other essential molecules.

There are many types of metaphors, each serving a unique purpose in communication and understanding. Here are some common types, explained succinctly.

Simple or direct metaphor

In a simple or direct metaphor, one thing is directly equated with another.

• Time is a thief.
• His eyes were icy pools.

Extended metaphor

An extended metaphor is also called a sustained metaphor. It is not just used once but is extended across a passage, a poem, or even an entire work. Here, the initial comparison between two unlike things is stretched and elaborated upon, allowing for multiple attributes or facets of the metaphorical concept to be explored. In the following, there will be two examples of sustained metaphors from famous works.

Roald Dahl’s “Matilda”:

The parents looked upon Matilda in particular as nothing more than a scab. A scab is something you have to put up with until the time comes when you can pick it off and flick it away.

William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”:

But, soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun. Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon, Who is already sick and pale with grief…

These famous metaphor examples illustrate how a figure of speech can be extended throughout more verses and sentences, but also across a whole book.

Implied metaphor

Rather than stating the figure of speech directly, an implied metaphor suggests the comparison.

• She blossomed in college.
• The CEO navigated through the meeting.
• John bolted from the room.

Mixed metaphor

A mixed metaphor combines elements of multiple, unrelated metaphors, often creating a confusing or humorous effect. However, without wanting to be funny, using a mixed metaphor may appear awkward or even sabotage your argument.

The test is easy, it’s not rocket surgery.

• “It’s not rocket science” + “It’s not brain surgery”

We’ll burn that bridge when we get to it.

• “We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it” + “Don’t burn your bridges”

You’re sailing close to thin ice.

• “You’re sailing too close to the wind” + “You’re on thin ice”

Dead metaphor

These have been used so much that their original impact has been lost, and they are understood as literal expressions. Using these may bore your reader. You should rather take a familiar metaphor and change it unconventionally to create something new and funny.

• Body of an essay.
• Heart of gold.
• Falling in love.

Metaphor synonyms

While it’s a specific term in literary and rhetorical analysis with few exact synonyms , several terms capture aspects of metaphorical language or operate in similar ways. Some of these include:

• Figure of speech

Note: While these terms are related and may overlap in some contexts, they are not strictly synonymous with “metaphor”, which has its distinct definition and usage.

Simile and analogy

While figures of speech are powerful tools for conveying abstract ideas through comparison, not all comparisons or symbolic expressions qualify as metaphors. Understanding what doesn’t count as one can clarify their unique role in language and thought.

Metaphor vs. simile

Both are figures of speech used to make comparisons. They both serve to elucidate ideas, evoke emotions, and provide new perspectives on subjects.

To understand the difference between metaphors and similes, we will list them. The primary difference lies in the way the comparison is made. A metaphor is an explicit comparison without using “like” or “as” and equates two unlike things for rhetorical effect. A simile uses “like” or “as” to make obvious comparisons and acknowledges their inherent differences even as it highlights certain similarities. The comparisons in similes make them easier to differentiate.

• Her smile is like sunshine.
• He’s as busy as a bee.
• The night sky was as dark as coal.

Metaphor vs. analogy

Both metaphors and analogies aim to clarify or explain one thing by comparing it to another. They are both used to shed light on complex or abstract concepts by relating them to something more concrete or familiar.

An analogy is generally more elaborated, often using a set structure to make the comparison more explicit (e.g., “A is to B as C is to D”). Analogies don’t need to imply that the two compared things are identical in all aspects. They rather highlight a specific relationship or aspect that the things share. Metaphors , on the other hand, make a more sweeping, implicit assertion that one thing is another, engaging the imagination more deeply to fill in the gaps.

• Just as a sword is the weapon of a warrior, a pen is the weapon of a writer.
• Life is like a game of chess.
• The heart is to the body as the engine is to a car.

Metaphors in academic writing

The use of metaphors in academic writing is a topic that warrants careful consideration. While they are commonly associated with creative or literary expression, they also find a home in academic essays . However, their appropriateness can vary depending on the context, the subject, and the academic discipline in question.

Is it appropriate to use them?

The appropriateness of metaphors in academic writing largely depends on the context:

• Clarity and precision: If it serves to clarify a complex idea or concept, then it can be a valuable tool. However, if it introduces ambiguity or misinterpretation, it’s best avoided.
• Audience: Understanding the expectations of your academic audience is crucial. Some disciplines are more accepting of metaphorical language than others.
• Purpose: They can be persuasive, but should not sensationalize or replace rigorous analysis.
• Balance: A well-placed figure of speech can illuminate an idea, but overuse can lead to a lack of clarity or can make the work seem less rigorous.

In summary, while figures of speech can be employed effectively in various academic papers, like dissertations , their use should be carefully considered. Always aim for clarity and ensure that it enhances, not clouds, the primary message of your work.

Are they used in academic writing?

Yes, they are indeed used in academic writing, but their frequency and application can differ significantly across disciplines. In fields like literature, philosophy, and some social sciences, metaphors can be instrumental in conveying complex ideas succinctly and vividly. They can add nuance to analyses and can make the material more engaging for the reader.

In contrast, scientific and technical fields tend to prioritize direct, unambiguous language to convey data and findings in their research papers . Here, the use of figures of speech is generally less common and can sometimes be viewed as imprecise or subjective.

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How to come up with a metaphor

Creating a figure of speech involves both a keen sense of observation and a bit of creative thinking. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a well-crafted metaphor.

• Identify the subject Begin by determining the idea, emotion, or object you want to describe. This will be used for comparison. For instance, if you’re trying to describe love’s complexities, “love” is your subject.
• Understand the characteristics List out the properties, attributes, or feelings associated with your subject. If your subject is “love”, you might think about attributes like “complicated”, “intense”, “unpredictable”, or “comforting”.
• Find a comparison Think of another object or situation that shares some of those characteristics but is different in essence. For “love”, you might choose “a maze”, which is also complicated and unpredictable.
• Eliminate “like” or “as” Remember, this kind of figure of speech makes a direct comparison without using “like” or “as” (those would make it a simile). So instead of saying “Love is like a maze”, you say “Love is a maze”.
• Test for clarity and resonance Ask yourself if it effectively highlights the attributes you want to focus on. Does it add depth to the reader’s understanding of the subject? If the answer is yes, you’ve probably got a strong metaphor.
• Refine and expand (optional) You can further enhance it by adding details or extending it. In the example, you might say, “Love is a maze, full of twists and turns where you can find both treasure and trapdoors.”
• Contextualize Make sure it fits perfectly within the context you’re using it.
• Get feedback Every so often, what is clear to you may not be so for others. It can be helpful to ask a friend or colleague for their opinion.
• Revise as needed Based on feedback and further reflection, make any necessary adjustments.

What does “metaphorically” mean?

The term “metaphorically” refers to the figurative, rather than the literal, interpretation of a word, phrase, or situation. When something is described as happening “metaphorically”, it means that the description is symbolic and not to be understood as actually taking place in a physical or factual manner.

If someone says, “My heart broke when I heard the news”, they are speaking metaphorically. Their heart did not literally break into pieces. This simply says that they felt deep emotional pain or disappointment, which is conveyed more vividly through the metaphor.

Using “metaphorically” allows the speaker or writer to emphasize a point or emotion through imaginative or symbolic language. It offers a nuanced way to express feelings, ideas, or conditions that might be too subtle or complex to describe directly.

What is an example of a metaphor?

An example of a metaphor is: “Time is a thief”.

This suggests that time takes away moments and opportunities, much like a thief would, even though time doesn’t actually “steal” anything.

What is the simple meaning of a metaphor?

A metaphor is a figure of speech that describes one thing as being something else, to highlight a similarity between the two. For example, saying “Life is a journey” means that life, like a journey, has ups and downs, destinations, and challenges. It helps us understand one thing by comparing it directly to another.

What are ten examples of metaphors?

Here are ten commonly used metaphors:

• She is a rock.
• His words were a dagger to my heart.
• Life is a roller coaster.
• The classroom was a zoo.
• My mind is a prison.
• The company is a well-oiled machine.
• Her eyes are stars.

What makes a good metaphor?

It should be clear, insightful, and evocative. It should create an immediate understanding of a complex idea by comparing it to something more familiar or tangible. They add depth and emotional resonance without causing confusion, and they should be relevant to the context in which they are used.

What is an example of a simile and metaphor in a poem?

Simile example: “My love is like a red, red rose” from Robert Burns’ poem “A Red, Red Rose”. This simile compares love to a red rose, using the word “like”.

Metaphor example: “Hope is the thing with feathers” from Emily Dickinson’s poem. This describes hope as a bird to symbolize its uplifting and enduring qualities.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, using metaphors in college essays.

What's up, guys? I'm currently working on my college essays and I was wondering if using metaphors would be a good idea. I've got some pretty creative metaphors that I feel could help my essay stand out. Has anyone tried this before? Is it too risky or does it add that extra pizzazz? Let me know your thoughts!

Hello! Using metaphors in college essays can definitely be a creative way to make your essay stand out and showcase your unique perspective. However, it's important to strike a balance between creativity and clarity. While metaphors can enhance your writing and catch the attention of the admissions officers, you also want them to easily understand the point you are trying to convey.

So, as you work on your essay, feel free to incorporate your metaphors, but be mindful to not overuse them or make them too complex. You want to use them to enrich your essay but not overpower the main narrative. Remember that your goal is to tell an engaging story about yourself and your experiences, so if your metaphors contribute to that goal, then they can certainly be an asset in your essay.

Also, if you have time, consider having someone else read your essay—this can help you evaluate whether your metaphors might be unclear, too confusing or actually add value to your essay. Good luck with your college essays and feel free to experiment with your writing style to make your essay truly memorable!

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Using Metaphors in Creative Writing

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What is a metaphor?

The term metaphor meant in Greek "carry something across" or "transfer," which suggests many of the more elaborate definitions below:

Related terms

Why use metaphors.

People get so accustomed to using the same words and phrases over and over, and always in the same ways, that they no longer know what they mean. Creative writers have the power to make the ordinary strange and the strange ordinary, making life interesting again.

When readers or listeners encounter a phrase or word that cannot be interpreted literally, they have to think—or rather, they are given the pleasure of interpretation. If you write "I am frustrated" or "The air was cold" you give your readers nothing to do—they say "so what?" On the other hand, if you say, "My ambition was Hiroshima, after the bombing," your readers can think about and choose from many possible meanings.

By writing "my dorm is a prison," you suggest to your readers that you feel as though you were placed in solitary, you are fed lousy food, you are deprived of all of life's great pleasures, your room is poorly lit and cramped—and a hundred other things, that, if you tried to say them all, would probably take several pages.

There are many gaps in language. When a child looks at the sky and sees a star but does not know the word "star," she is forced to say, "Mommy, look at the lamp in the sky!" Similarly, when computer software developers created boxes on the screen as a user interface, they needed a new language; the result was windows. In your poems, you will often be trying to write about subjects, feelings, etc., so complex that you have no choice but to use metaphors.

Or so says Aristotle in Poetics: "[T]he greatest thing by far is to be a master of metaphor." It is "a sign of genius, since a good metaphor implies an intuitive perception of the similarity in dissimilars."

Creative ways to use metaphors

Most books give rather boring examples of metaphors such as my father is a bear or the librarian was a beast. However, in your poetry (and fiction for that matter) you can do much more than say X is Y, like an algebraic formula. Definitely play with extended metaphors (see above) and experiment with some of the following, using metaphors...

26 Metaphors for College: Navigating the Odyssey of Higher Education

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Embarking on the journey of higher education is akin to setting sail on the vast sea of knowledge. The odyssey that unfolds is not just a pursuit of academic excellence but a transformative experience that shapes individuals. In this article, we’ll explore 26 metaphors that encapsulate the essence of the college adventure.

26 Metaphors for College

• The Odyssey of Higher Education: Embarking on a transformative journey filled with challenges and self-discovery.
• A Blank Canvas: Your mind , awaiting the vibrant strokes of knowledge and creativity.
• The Marathon of Learning : A long-term commitment, requiring endurance and a steady pace.
• The Garden of Knowledge: Your mind as a garden, where the seeds of wisdom are nurtured.
• The Puzzle of Possibilities: College as a puzzle, with each piece representing a potential pathway to the future.
• The Roller Coaster Ride: An academic journey with exhilarating highs and challenging lows.
• The Beacon of Enlightenment: Education guiding you through the complexities, illuminating the path to knowledge.
• The Symphony of Ideas: College as a symphony, where diverse thoughts and concepts harmonize.
• The Library: A Treasure Trove: A collection of books and resources, akin to a treasure trove of knowledge.
• The Bridge to Tomorrow: Education connecting past experiences, present endeavors, and future aspirations.
• The Laboratory of Life: College as a laboratory, conducting experiments in education and self-discovery.
• The Canvas of Collaboration: Success painted with the strokes of collaboration and teamwork.
• The GPS of Growth: Education serving as a reliable GPS, guiding personal and academic development.
• The Time Capsule of Memories: College as a time capsule, encapsulating lasting memories.
• The Echo Chamber of Wisdom: Learning from the echoes of knowledge within the walls of academia.
• The Theater of Perspectives: College as a theater where diverse perspectives take center stage.
• The Sculpture of Self-Discovery: Education as a sculptor, shaping your identity through self-discovery.
• The Compass of Critical Thinking: Critical thinking as your compass, guiding you through intellectual exploration.
• The Oasis of Networking: Amidst challenges, an oasis of networking cultivating future opportunities.
• The Quantum Leap of Understanding: Experiencing rapid advances in comprehension through education.
• The Seedling of Entrepreneurship: Planting the seed of entrepreneurship, fostering innovative ventures.
• The Mirror of Reflection: Education providing a mirror for personal and academic reflection.
• The Blueprint of Success: Designing your own blueprint for success through educational experiences.
• The Everest of Challenges: College presenting challenges like climbing Everest, building resilience and offering breathtaking views of capabilities.
• The Tapestry of Transformation : Each educational experience contributing to the rich narrative of personal and intellectual growth.
• The Starry Sky of Possibilities: College opening up a vast and limitless sky of opportunities for your future.

The metaphors for college paint a rich and diverse tapestry, illustrating the multifaceted nature of the educational journey. From the odyssey of self-discovery to the starry sky of limitless possibilities, each metaphor captures a unique aspect of the transformative experience that is college. Together, they emphasize the challenges, joys, and profound growth that students undergo, creating a mosaic of metaphors that encapsulate the essence of higher education. Just as in any tapestry, the beauty lies in the amalgamation of these metaphors, shaping a narrative that is personal, enlightening, and truly reflective of the myriad experiences woven into the fabric of a college education.

The Odyssey of Higher Education

Embarking on the odyssey of higher education is akin to setting sail on a transformative journey filled with academic challenges, personal growth, and self-discovery. Whether you’re a fresh-faced undergraduate or a seasoned professional pursuing advanced studies, the odyssey of higher education promises a voyage that goes beyond textbooks and classrooms.

Definition and Context

The term “odyssey” originates from Homer’s epic poem, “The Odyssey,” where the hero embarks on a long and adventurous journey fraught with challenges and self-discovery. In the context of higher education, it encapsulates the holistic experience of pursuing knowledge, navigating academic hurdles, and evolving as an individual.

When and Where to Use

This metaphor is suitable for formal contexts such as academic blogs, commencement speeches, or discussions about the overall educational journey. It’s a versatile term applicable to various levels of education, from undergraduate studies to doctoral research.

Pros and Cons

• Evocative Imagery: Conjures images of a grand and meaningful journey.
• Universal Applicability: Relevant to students across diverse academic disciplines.
• Narrative Appeal: Adds a storytelling element to discussions about education.
• Complexity: Might be perceived as too literary for some casual contexts.
• Overuse Risk: Being a popular metaphor, it could lose impact if used excessively.

Example Usage

Formal Context (Blog Post): “In the odyssey of higher education, students navigate uncharted waters, encountering academic challenges that act as both tempests and guiding stars in their pursuit of knowledge.”

Informal Context (Email to a Mentee): “Hey [Mentee’s Name], embarking on your college journey is like starting your own odyssey. Embrace the challenges, and remember, each academic hurdle is a step towards personal growth!”

Variation for Colleagues: “As we collectively embark on the odyssey of this research project, let’s navigate through the complexities with the same determination Odysseus had on his epic journey.”

Variation for Friends: “Planning a road trip after graduation? It’s our post-college odyssey—full of adventures, challenges, and discovering new facets of ourselves!”

Grammar/Usage Tip

While “odyssey” is a noun, it can be creatively adapted into an adjective or verb form. For example, “embarking on an odyssean exploration of knowledge” or “we odysseied through our final exams.”

The metaphor of the odyssey adds a layer of depth to discussions about higher education. It captures the essence of the academic journey as more than a series of courses—it’s an expedition of self-discovery, intellectual growth, and resilience.

A Blank Canvas: Your Mind Unleashed

Imagine your mind as a blank canvas, eagerly awaiting the vibrant strokes of knowledge and creativity. College, in this context, becomes the palette where your ideas come to life, and the journey is a masterpiece in the making.

The metaphor of a blank canvas signifies the limitless potential of the human mind. It’s an analogy often used to describe the beginning of a creative or intellectual endeavor, where possibilities are endless.

This metaphor is versatile and suitable for various contexts, from academic discussions on the philosophy of learning to casual conversations about embarking on a new educational venture.

• Visual Appeal: Conjures a vivid image of untapped potential.
• Universality: Applicable across disciplines and levels of education.
• Encouraging Tone: Inspires a positive outlook on learning and growth.
• Cliché Risk: Being a popular metaphor, it may sound cliché if not used creatively.
• Potential for Over-Formality: In casual contexts, it might come off as too academic.

Formal Context (Philosophical Discussion): “In the vast realm of academia, each student begins their journey with a mind as blank as a canvas, ready to be painted with the colors of knowledge and understanding.”

Informal Context (Text to a Friend): “Starting college is like being handed a blank canvas. We get to splash on it with the colors of subjects we’re passionate about. Exciting, right?”

Variation for Colleagues: “As we delve into this new project, let’s approach it with the mindset of a blank canvas—open to innovative ideas and creative solutions.”

Variation for Friends: “Planning our study group sessions is like starting with a blank canvas. We can make it as colorful and exciting as we want!”

Utilize the blank canvas metaphor as a motivational tool. For instance, “Every assignment is a chance to paint on the blank canvas of your academic journey.”

The blank canvas metaphor infuses a sense of excitement and potential into discussions about the educational journey. It emphasizes the creative and intellectual freedom that comes with each new learning experience.

The Marathon of Learning

Education is not a sprint but a marathon, requiring endurance, resilience, and a steady pace. Embracing the marathon of learning mindset sets the tone for a long-term commitment to continuous growth and academic achievement.

The metaphor of a marathon draws parallels between the endurance required in a long-distance race and the perseverance needed throughout an academic journey. It emphasizes the importance of pacing oneself and staying committed to the educational process.

This metaphor is fitting for discussions about the long-term nature of education, whether in formal settings like academic forums or casual conversations about the challenges of coursework.

• Encourages Persistence: Highlights the value of staying committed over the long haul.
• Universal Applicability: Relevant across various educational levels and disciplines.
• Metaphor for Life: Reflects the continuous learning inherent in personal and professional development.
• Potential Overemphasis on Struggle: May inadvertently convey a sense of hardship associated with learning.
• Requires Balance: Emphasizing the marathon can neglect the importance of short-term goals and achievements.

Formal Context (Academic Conference): “As educators, we must instill in our students the mindset that education is a marathon. It’s about pacing oneself, facing challenges head-on, and crossing the finish line with a wealth of knowledge.”

Informal Context (Text to a Classmate): “Hey, tackling this semester’s workload together is like running a marathon. We pace ourselves, support each other, and celebrate every small victory along the way!”

Variation for Colleagues: “As we delve into this research project, let’s remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Consistent effort over time will yield meaningful results.”

Variation for Friends: “Studying for exams is a marathon, not a sprint. We’ll get through it together, one step at a time!”

Incorporate marathon-related idioms to enrich your language . For example, “This semester is a marathon, so let’s hit the ground running with effective study strategies.”

The marathon of learning metaphor instills a sense of determination and patience into the educational narrative. It reframes challenges as part of a larger, more enduring journey toward academic and personal growth.

The Garden of Knowledge

Your mind is a garden, and education is the process of nurturing the seeds of wisdom. In this metaphor, college becomes the fertile ground where these seeds are planted and cultivated, leading to a rich harvest of understanding.

The garden metaphor suggests that knowledge, like plants, requires careful cultivation and attention to flourish. It underscores the idea that learning is a continuous process of nurturing intellectual growth.

This metaphor is suitable for various contexts, from academic discussions about the philosophy of education to casual conversations about the joys of learning.

• Visual Metaphor: Evokes a picturesque image of intellectual growth.
• Encourages Careful Cultivation: Highlights the need for intentional learning practices.
• Relatable and Accessible: Easily understood, making it applicable across diverse audiences.
• Potential Overuse: Due to its popularity, it may become commonplace if used excessively.
• Limited Scope: Primarily emphasizes the nurturing aspect of education, potentially overlooking the challenges.

Formal Context (Educational Blog): “In the garden of knowledge, each academic pursuit is a seed waiting to be planted and nurtured. Through intentional cultivation, students can witness the flourishing of intellectual blooms.”

Informal Context (Text to a Friend): “Hey, diving into this new subject feels like planting a seed in the garden of knowledge. Can’t wait to see what blossoms from it!”

Variation for Colleagues: “As we embark on this collaborative project, let’s treat it like a communal garden of knowledge. Each contribution plants a seed, and together we’ll cultivate a field of insights.”

Variation for Friends: “Studying together is like tending to our shared garden of knowledge. Watering the seeds of understanding, we’ll harvest success at the end of the semester!”

Extend the metaphor by using phrases like “cultivating ideas,” “nurturing understanding,” or “harvesting insights” to enhance the gardening analogy.

The garden of knowledge metaphor brings forth a nurturing perspective on education. It encourages individuals to see each learning opportunity as a chance to cultivate wisdom, fostering an environment where intellectual growth can flourish.

The Puzzle of Possibilities

Education is a puzzle, with each piece representing a potential pathway to the future. As you navigate the intricate pieces, the full picture of your academic and personal journey begins to unfold.

The puzzle metaphor suggests that education comprises various interconnected elements, each contributing to the overall picture of one’s learning experience. It emphasizes the complexity and interdependence of different aspects of education.

This metaphor is fitting for discussions about the diverse nature of educational experiences, making it suitable for formal settings like academic presentations or casual conversations about academic choices.

• Visual Metaphor: Creates a vivid image of the intricate nature of education.
• Encourages Exploration: Implies that each piece represents a unique opportunity for exploration.
• Versatility: Applicable across different academic levels and fields of study.
• Potential Overcomplication: Might be perceived as too intricate for straightforward educational discussions.
• Dependence on Individual Pieces: Could inadvertently downplay the holistic nature of learning.

Formal Context (Conference Presentation): “As we examine the puzzle of possibilities in education, it becomes evident that each course, project, or extracurricular activity is a unique piece contributing to the mosaic of our academic journey.”

Informal Context (Text to a Classmate): “Choosing electives feels like solving the puzzle of possibilities. Each class is a piece, and together, they create a personalized academic picture.”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our collaborative research, consider each data point as a puzzle piece. As we assemble them, the full picture of our findings will emerge.”

Variation for Friends: “Deciding on our post-graduation plans is like solving a puzzle of possibilities. Each option is a piece, and the final picture is the exciting journey ahead!”

Utilize puzzle-related idioms like “putting the pieces together” or “seeing the big picture” to enhance the metaphor.

The puzzle of possibilities metaphor invites individuals to view their education as a multifaceted journey, where each choice and experience contributes to the overall picture of personal and academic growth.

The Roller Coaster Ride

Embarking on your academic journey is like strapping into a roller coaster, complete with exhilarating highs and challenging lows. The twists and turns represent the diverse experiences that shape your educational adventure.

The roller coaster ride metaphor draws parallels between the ups and downs of a roller coaster and the highs and lows experienced during one’s educational journey. It underscores the unpredictability and excitement that come with learning.

This metaphor is suitable for various contexts, from motivational speeches to discussions about the emotional aspects of learning. It can be used both formally and informally.

• Emotional Resonance: Captures the emotional aspects of the learning journey.
• Memorability: Roller coasters are memorable, making the metaphor impactful.
• Versatility: Applicable to a broad audience, from students to professionals.
• Potential Negative Connotation: Roller coasters can be associated with fear ; the metaphor might inadvertently emphasize challenges over triumphs.
• Overuse Risk: Commonly used, so creativity is key to maintain impact.

Formal Context (Motivational Speech): “Education is a roller coaster ride, filled with twists and turns. Embrace the highs, navigate the lows, and enjoy the exhilarating journey of discovery.”

Informal Context (Text to a Friend): “Starting this new course feels like hopping on a roller coaster. Exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of unexpected turns. Ready for the ride together?”

Variation for Colleagues: “As we tackle this project, remember it’s a bit of a roller coaster. We’ll navigate the challenges together and celebrate the highs as a team.”

Variation for Friends: “Planning our group project is like coordinating a roller coaster ride. Let’s buckle up for the highs and support each other through the lows!”

Integrate roller coaster-related phrases like “ride the highs,” “navigate the lows,” or “enjoy the twists and turns” to amplify the metaphor.

The roller coaster ride metaphor infuses an element of excitement into discussions about education. It prompts individuals to embrace the journey with all its ups and downs, recognizing that each twist contributes to a memorable and transformative experience.

The Beacon of Enlightenment

Imagine education as a guiding beacon, illuminating the vast sea of knowledge and providing clarity in your academic endeavors. This metaphor portrays learning as a journey toward enlightenment, where the pursuit of knowledge serves as a guiding light.

The beacon of enlightenment metaphor likens education to a guiding light, symbolizing clarity, understanding, and the pursuit of wisdom. It suggests that each educational experience brings illumination to one’s intellectual path.

This metaphor is suitable for formal contexts such as academic presentations or discussions on the transformative nature of education. It’s also effective in informal settings where the emphasis is on personal growth.

• Inspires Direction: Encourages a sense of purpose and direction in learning.
• Metaphorical Richness: Evokes images of clarity and understanding.
• Symbolic Universality: Universally applicable, resonating with diverse audiences.
• Potential Overuse: As a popular metaphor, it may lose impact if used excessively.
• Abstract Nature: The concept of a beacon may be too abstract for some audiences.

Formal Context (Academic Symposium): “As we delve into the complexities of our research, let us view education as a beacon of enlightenment, guiding us through the uncharted waters of knowledge and understanding.”

Informal Context (Email to a Mentor): “Dear Professor [Mentor’s Name], your guidance has been a beacon of enlightenment in my academic journey, illuminating the path to deeper understanding and growth.”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our collaborative efforts, let’s see our shared objectives as beacons of enlightenment. Each project brings clarity to our collective understanding and guides us toward success.”

Variation for Friends: “Navigating through finals together feels like following the beacons of enlightenment. We’re guiding each other to academic success with shared insights and support.”

Extend the metaphor by incorporating phrases like “illuminating insights,” “clarity in understanding,” or “guided by the beacon” for a more vivid narrative.

The beacon of enlightenment metaphor adds a layer of purpose to discussions about education. It encourages individuals to see each learning opportunity as a guiding light, leading them toward a clearer understanding of the world.

The Symphony of Ideas

In the realm of education, envision a symphony where diverse thoughts and concepts harmonize. The metaphor of a symphony emphasizes the collaborative and harmonious nature of learning, where various ideas come together to create a rich and nuanced intellectual melody.

The symphony of ideas metaphor conveys the idea that education is a collaborative effort, where diverse perspectives, theories, and concepts combine to create a harmonious and multifaceted understanding.

This metaphor is suitable for formal contexts discussing the collaborative nature of education, especially in subjects where interdisciplinary perspectives are valued. It’s also effective in informal conversations highlighting the richness of shared knowledge.

• Promotes Collaboration: Encourages the idea that knowledge is a collective effort.
• Expresses Diversity : Highlights the beauty of diverse ideas and perspectives.
• Cultural Universality: Universally relatable, applicable across cultural and academic settings.
• Potential Overemphasis on Harmony: May downplay the necessary conflicts and debates in intellectual discourse.
• Metaphor Complexity: Might be too abstract for some audiences.

Formal Context (Panel Discussion): “As we explore the intersections of science and humanities, let’s view our discourse as a symphony of ideas, where diverse perspectives contribute to the richness of our collective knowledge.”

Informal Context (Group Study Session): “Studying together is like being part of a symphony of ideas. Each one of us brings a unique perspective, and when they come together, it creates a beautiful blend of understanding.”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our brainstorming sessions, let’s consider each suggestion as a note in the symphony of ideas. Together, we’ll compose a masterpiece in problem-solving.”

Variation for Friends: “Deciding on our project topics is like choosing melodies for our symphony of ideas. Let’s ensure each idea harmonizes with the others for a cohesive academic melody!”

Infuse musical terms into your language, such as “orchestrating discussions,” “harmonizing concepts,” or “conducting collaborative learning” to enhance the symphony metaphor.

The symphony of ideas metaphor amplifies the collaborative spirit of education. It encourages individuals to appreciate the diversity of thought, recognizing that the harmonious blend of ideas creates a richer and more profound intellectual experience.

The Library: A Treasure Trove

Picture your mind as a vast library, each book and resource a treasure waiting to be discovered. The metaphor of a library as a treasure trove encapsulates the wealth of knowledge available in academic pursuits.

The library as a treasure trove metaphor suggests that education is a journey of exploration and discovery, with each book and resource akin to a valuable gem waiting to be unearthed. It underscores the richness and depth of available knowledge.

This metaphor is fitting for formal contexts such as discussions on the importance of research or academic resources. It’s also effective in informal conversations about the excitement of learning.

• Visual Appeal: Conjures imagery of a library filled with hidden treasures.
• Emphasizes Exploration: Encourages a sense of curiosity and the joy of discovery.
• Universality: Applicable to various academic disciplines and levels.
• Potential Overuse: Being a popular metaphor, it may lose impact if used excessively.
• Limited Scope: Primarily focuses on the positive aspects of exploration, potentially overlooking challenges.

Formal Context (Library Symposium): “As we delve into the importance of research, let us view the library as a treasure trove of knowledge. Each book is a precious gem, waiting to illuminate our academic pursuits.”

Informal Context (Text to a Classmate): “Getting ready for our research project—time to dive into the library’s treasure trove! Each book is a hidden gem of information waiting to be discovered.”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our collaborative efforts, let’s treat our shared resources like a treasure trove. Each article and reference is a valuable gem contributing to our collective understanding.”

Variation for Friends: “Choosing elective courses is like exploring a treasure trove of options. Let’s dig into the course catalog and uncover the hidden gems together!”

Incorporate phrases like “unearth knowledge,” “discover gems,” or “navigate the trove” to enhance the metaphor and emphasize the act of exploration.

The library as a treasure trove metaphor instills a sense of excitement and curiosity into the educational narrative. It encourages individuals to approach their academic pursuits with the mindset of explorers, ready to uncover the hidden treasures of knowledge.

The Bridge to Tomorrow

Education serves as a bridge, connecting the experiences of the past, the endeavors of the present, and the aspirations for the future. The metaphor of a bridge underscores the continuity and interconnectedness of one’s academic journey.

The bridge to tomorrow metaphor signifies that education is a transformative path that links past learning, current studies, and future goals. It emphasizes the idea that each academic step contributes to the ongoing journey of personal and professional development.

This metaphor is suitable for formal contexts discussing the holistic nature of education, particularly in discussions about the transition from academia to the professional world. It’s also effective in informal conversations about the interconnectedness of learning experiences.

• Symbolizes Continuity: Illustrates the ongoing nature of the educational journey.
• Encourages Reflection: Prompts individuals to consider the impact of past experiences on current and future endeavors.
• Metaphorical Versatility: Applicable to discussions across academic disciplines and career paths.
• Potential Overemphasis on Transition: Might downplay the importance of the present moment by focusing too heavily on the bridge metaphor.
• Abstract Nature: Could be perceived as too abstract for some audiences.

Formal Context (Career Development Workshop): “As we explore the transition from academia to the professional world, let’s view education as a bridge to tomorrow. Each lesson, challenge, and success contributes to the ongoing journey of personal and career development.”

Informal Context (Text to a Friend): “Finishing our degrees is like crossing a bridge to tomorrow. Let’s celebrate the achievements of today and look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead!”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our strategic planning session, let’s consider our long-term goals as the other side of the bridge. Our current projects serve as the pathway, linking our efforts to future success.”

Variation for Friends: “Choosing majors and minors is like designing the bridge to tomorrow. Each course we take builds a sturdier path to the future we envision!”

Incorporate phrases like “crossing bridges,” “building pathways,” or “navigating the journey” to enhance the metaphor and emphasize the ongoing nature of the educational experience.

The bridge to tomorrow metaphor invites individuals to view education as a continuous journey. It encourages reflection on the interconnectedness of past, present, and future experiences, highlighting the transformative power of learning.

The Canvas of Curiosity

Imagine your mind as a vast canvas, eagerly waiting for the brushstrokes of curiosity to paint a masterpiece of knowledge. The metaphor of a canvas emphasizes the role of curiosity in creating a colorful and enriching educational experience.

The canvas of curiosity metaphor suggests that education is an artistic process, with curiosity acting as the brush that adds depth and vibrancy to the learning journey. It underscores the idea that embracing curiosity leads to a more fulfilling and dynamic academic experience.

This metaphor is suitable for various contexts, from formal discussions about the importance of curiosity in education to informal conversations highlighting the joy of learning. It resonates well in settings that celebrate the creative and exploratory aspects of academic pursuits.

• Visual Metaphor: Evokes imagery of a blank canvas waiting to be filled with curiosity-inspired exploration.
• Emphasizes Creativity: Highlights the role of curiosity in fostering creative and innovative thinking.
• Universality: Applicable across diverse subjects and academic levels.
• Potential Overemphasis on Creativity: May not fully capture the analytical and structured aspects of certain academic disciplines.
• Subjectivity: The perception of what constitutes a “masterpiece” may vary among individuals.

Formal Context (Education Conference): “In our discussion on fostering a love for learning, let’s view the mind as a canvas of curiosity. Each question, exploration, and discovery adds vibrant brushstrokes to the masterpiece of knowledge.”

Informal Context (Email to a Mentor): “Dear [Mentor’s Name], navigating through my research project feels like painting on the canvas of curiosity. Your guidance has helped me choose colors that bring depth to my exploration.”

Variation for Colleagues: “As we brainstorm ideas for our project, let’s consider our collective creativity as brushstrokes on the canvas of curiosity. Each unique perspective contributes to the richness of our collaborative work.”

Variation for Friends: “Choosing classes is like deciding on colors for our canvas of curiosity. Let’s pick subjects that add excitement and depth to our academic masterpiece!”

Enhance the metaphor by using phrases like “painting with curiosity,” “exploring the canvas,” or “adding brushstrokes to knowledge” to emphasize the role of curiosity in the learning process.

The canvas of curiosity metaphor encourages individuals to approach education as a creative and exploratory endeavor. It celebrates the joy of learning and highlights the transformative power of curiosity in shaping a rich and colorful academic experience.

The Kaleidoscope of Perspectives

Education is a kaleidoscope, revealing a myriad of perspectives and insights that form a beautiful and ever-changing pattern. The metaphor of a kaleidoscope underscores the diversity of ideas and viewpoints encountered during the learning journey.

The kaleidoscope of perspectives metaphor suggests that education is a dynamic experience, with each perspective contributing to the ever-shifting tapestry of knowledge. It emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse viewpoints for a comprehensive understanding.

This metaphor is fitting for discussions about the value of diversity in education, whether in formal settings discussing the curriculum or in casual conversations about the benefits of exposure to different ideas.

• Visual Metaphor: Evokes the imagery of a kaleidoscope, capturing the vibrant and ever-changing nature of perspectives.
• Promotes Inclusivity: Encourages an appreciation for diverse viewpoints and experiences.
• Versatility: Applicable to discussions across academic disciplines and levels.
• Potential Overemphasis on Diversity: Might downplay the need for critical evaluation and discernment in assessing perspectives.
• Complexity: The metaphor may be too abstract for some audiences.

Formal Context (Diversity Seminar): “As we explore the importance of diverse perspectives in education, let’s view the learning experience as a kaleidoscope. Each viewpoint contributes to the intricate pattern of understanding, creating a tapestry that celebrates diversity.”

Informal Context (Text to a Classmate): “Navigating through our coursework feels like turning the kaleidoscope of perspectives. Every lecture, discussion, and reading adds a new dimension to the colorful pattern of knowledge.”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our team discussions, let’s treat each member’s viewpoint as a unique piece in the kaleidoscope of perspectives. Together, we create a dynamic and inclusive understanding.”

Variation for Friends: “Choosing elective courses is like picking different pieces for our academic kaleidoscope. Let’s ensure our schedules are filled with diverse perspectives for a well-rounded experience!”

Enrich the metaphor by using phrases like “shifting perspectives,” “dynamic tapestry,” or “exploring the kaleidoscope” to emphasize the ever-changing nature of ideas and viewpoints.

The kaleidoscope of perspectives metaphor encourages individuals to appreciate the diversity of ideas encountered in education. It highlights the transformative power of considering various viewpoints, creating a dynamic and inclusive learning experience.

The Symphony of Success

Think of academic achievements as musical notes coming together in a symphony of success. The metaphor of a symphony underscores the harmony and coordination required for accomplishments to resonate and create a beautiful composition.

The symphony of success metaphor conveys the idea that academic achievements, much like musical notes, come together to create a harmonious and impactful outcome. It emphasizes the importance of coordination and collaboration in achieving success.

This metaphor is suitable for discussions on teamwork, collaborative projects, or the collective pursuit of goals in formal settings like academic presentations or workplace seminars. It also fits well in casual conversations about the shared victories of a group.

• Visual Metaphor: Evokes the imagery of a symphony, bringing to mind the collaboration and coordination of musicians.
• Emphasizes Collaboration: Highlights the role of working together for a collective achievement.
• Universality: Applicable to various collaborative endeavors, both within academia and beyond.
• Potential Overemphasis on Harmony: May not fully capture the challenges and conflicts inherent in group dynamics.
• Abstract Nature: Might be too abstract for some audiences.

Formal Context (Team Project Presentation): “As we reflect on our team’s success, let’s view our accomplishments as notes in a symphony. Each member’s contribution adds depth and richness to the overall composition, creating a beautiful symphony of success.”

Informal Context (Text to a Group Member): “Completing our group project feels like composing a symphony of success. Every idea, effort, and contribution played a crucial role in our collective achievement.”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our collaborative efforts, let’s see our project milestones as the notes in a symphony of success. Together, we’ll compose a masterpiece of achievement.”

Variation for Friends: “Graduating together is like the final crescendo in our symphony of success. We’ve played different roles, but the collective melody is a testament to our shared journey.”

Infuse musical terms such as “harmony,” “crescendo,” or “orchestrate success” into your language to enhance the symphony metaphor.

The symphony of success metaphor encourages individuals to recognize and celebrate the collaborative nature of achievements. It emphasizes the beauty that emerges when diverse efforts and contributions come together in harmony.

The Blueprint of Knowledge

Education is akin to constructing a building, and knowledge serves as the blueprint guiding the construction process. The metaphor of a blueprint underscores the structured and planned nature of learning, where each piece of information contributes to the overall structure.

The blueprint of knowledge metaphor suggests that education involves a structured plan, much like a blueprint for building. It emphasizes the organized and intentional acquisition of information to construct a solid foundation of understanding.

This metaphor is suitable for discussions on curriculum planning, study strategies, or the systematic approach to learning. It fits well in both formal contexts such as academic workshops and informal conversations about effective study habits.

• Visual Metaphor: Evokes the image of a blueprint, emphasizing organization and structure.
• Encourages Planning: Highlights the importance of intentional learning and strategic study approaches.
• Versatility: Applicable to discussions across various academic disciplines and levels.
• Potential Overemphasis on Structure: May not fully capture the dynamic and evolving nature of knowledge.
• Potential Perceived Rigidity: The metaphor might unintentionally convey a sense of inflexibility in learning.

Formal Context (Study Skills Workshop): “As we delve into effective study habits, let’s consider knowledge as the blueprint guiding our learning process. Each piece of information contributes to the construction of a robust understanding of the subject matter.”

Informal Context (Text to a Study Buddy): “Tackling this challenging course feels like deciphering the blueprint of knowledge. Let’s break it down together and build a solid foundation for success!”

Variation for Colleagues: “In our research project, let’s treat our literature review as the foundational blueprint of knowledge. Every relevant study contributes to the robust structure of our research.”

Variation for Friends: “Choosing our majors is like designing the blueprint of our academic journey. Each course is a crucial element, contributing to the construction of our future careers.”

Use phrases like “building knowledge,” “constructing understanding,” or “following the blueprint” to reinforce the metaphor of knowledge as a structured plan.

The blueprint of knowledge metaphor encourages individuals to approach learning with a structured and intentional mindset. It highlights the importance of each piece of information in constructing a solid foundation of understanding in the educational building process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is college really an odyssey.

Absolutely! College is a transformative journey filled with adventures, challenges, and self-discovery. It’s an odyssey that shapes your intellect and character.

How can I embrace the marathon of learning?

Approach education with resilience and a steady pace. View it as a long-term commitment, and celebrate the small victories along the way.

Why is the library compared to a treasure trove?

The library houses a wealth of knowledge, akin to a treasure trove. Each book and resource is a valuable gem waiting to be explored and utilized.

What role does collaboration play in college?

Collaboration is essential in college. It enhances your learning experience, exposes you to diverse perspectives, and fosters teamwork skills crucial for success.

How can I navigate the challenges of personal and academic growth?

Use education as your GPS for growth. Set goals, seek guidance when needed, and continually reflect on your experiences for self-improvement.

Why is college referred to as the Everest of challenges?

Like climbing Everest, college presents daunting challenges. Conquering them not only builds resilience but also offers breathtaking views of your capabilities.

In the grand tapestry of higher education, each metaphor weaves a unique thread, contributing to the rich narrative of your academic journey. Embrace the odyssey, navigate the challenges, and emerge not just educated but transformed.

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8 Do’s and Don’ts For Crafting Your College Essay

←5 Awesome College Essay Topics + Sample Essays

6 Personal Essay Brainstorming Exercises →

Contrary to what you might think, you essay is not a place to prove your worthiness to attend college. Instead, it’s a place to convey your personality, demonstrate who you are, and explore what you can bring to campus.

Not sure what to say? Here are 8 dos and don’ts for writing your college essay.

Don’t: Regurgitate your resume.

Do: find a hook..

Colleges have your transcript, SAT/ACT scores, recs, and extracurriculars to understand the academic side of you. Your essay is a place to show them what you’re really like—your personality, passions, and what you’ll bring to campus. It’s a place to demonstrate that you have a fit —meaning you would fit in with the student body and contribute to the campus—with the school.

Use a hook—a compelling anecdote, an example, a question—at the beginning of your essay to draw your reader in. (Read How to Get the Perfect Hook for Your College Essay to help you come up with an idea.) This is a chance to demonstrate what your personality is like and give them an idea of your voice.

Don’t: Turn use overused metaphors.

Do: use rhetorical devices..

A personalized metaphor can be a great way to capture your experiences and views through the lens of a single experience. For instance, you might discuss a time you volunteered at a hospital in a third-world country to capture how you believe in helping others. For tips on developing your own metaphor, check out How to Develop a Personalized Metaphor for Your Applications .

However, be wary of using common or cliche experiences as metaphors for something more global. Topics like sports injury and pet death are so common that adcoms’ eyes will glaze over the second they see them. Plus, these topics don’t really capture bigger-picture trials and may make you seem unworldly. While there may be a place to talk about them—for instance, if you had to quit an activity because of a sports injury, you may want to explain in the additional information section—, it’s better to develop a more original topic for your essay.

However, how you say it is more important than what you say. That’s why you should use rhetorical devices —symbols, imagery, metaphors, anecdotes, and other compelling language—to describe your experience and make it seem real to adcoms.

Don’t: Assume you have nothing to say.

Do: brainstorm..

You don’t have to have started your own business to tell a compelling story . Remember: how you say it is more important than what you say.

To get started, try some brainstorming exercises . For instance, you might make lists of beliefs, character flaws, personal anecdotes or whatever else pops into your head.

My brother wrote his essay about failing his driving test. Somehow, he managed to turn what could have been a mundane, if disappointing, experience into a hilarious and even poignant story. (He ended up going to Cornell, so it worked.) All of this to say, you can turn even the most common, everyday experience into a reflection on something larger.

Don’t: Shy away from challenges or difficulties you’ve faced.

Do: choose the most appropriate forum to discuss them..

If you’ve taken time off or personal issues have impacted your grades and schoolwork, you should explain it in your application. However, take care to do it in the right section and in a way that portrays you in the most positive light possible. Overcoming obstacles can certainly be positive, but you don’t want colleges to regard you as a liability, such as if you’ve had significant psychological issues they won’t be able to address.

Essays are a good forum for discussing obstacles you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them, but if you choose this kind of topic, make sure it helps colleges understand your personality better. You don’t want to be defensive in your essay; don’t gripe about a conflict with a teacher, for instance. Some issues may be better left to the additional information section.

The Takeaway

The purpose of your essay is to paint a picture of who you are. Adcoms will get an idea of your academic and extracurricular achievements from other sections of your application. The essay is where you demonstrate your character, what you will bring to campus, and new insights and perspectives you can offer. To write a compelling essay, convey your ideas through powerful language, and use a topic about which you can write passionately.

For more tips on writing your college essay, read:

How to Write an Impressive College Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Write a Personal Statement That Wows Colleges

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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Using Metaphors When Writing A College Essay

There are many tools that writers can use to improve their essays and to make them more intriguing and engaging for the reader. One of these tools is metaphor. Metaphor allows the writer to describe a concept as if it were something else, drawing a comparison between these two ideas to deepen the reader’s understanding of the original concept.

Difference between metaphor and simile

Metaphors and similes are similar, but there is an important distinction between them. While they may be used to draw comparisons between the same two concepts, they do so in different ways.

“Her eyes were as deep as the ocean.”

The above quote is a simile.

“Her eyes were deep oceans.”

This one is a metaphor. Note that when using a simile, terms like “like” and “as” are used, while in a metaphor, the two concepts are equated. Her eyes are not like oceans, they are oceans.

Reasons to Use Metaphors

Metaphors are primarily used for three reasons:

In the above quote, equating the woman’s eyes to oceans explains to the reader that that the narrator finds them almost unbelievably deep and mysterious; the ocean imagery does the best possible job of portraying this.

• To increase interest

Metaphors paint vivid pictures that pique the reader’s interest and heighten their sense of creativity and imagination.

Metaphors are a strong way to use imagery. Similes are somewhat softer. For this reason, many writers limit their use of metaphors so that when they do use them, they have the maximum impact.

Metaphors: Tips

When using metaphors, it’s a good idea to try and avoid being trite. Trite metaphors are those which are used too frequently, so they lose their impact. The above example, comparing eyes and oceans, could be considered trite. Instead, try to think of a concept for comparison which your reader will be surprised by, despite how applicable it is.

Also, be careful not to mix metaphors. When you compare something tangible in your story to a concept, fulfill that comparison before equating it to something else. If, for example, you are using a metaphor to equate an argument and a boxing match, do not change it to a hockey game midway through. This may or may not actually confuse the reader, but even if it doesn’t, it comes across as sloppy and ineffectual, and is best avoided.

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18 Metaphors and Analogies Found in Actual Student Papers (Or Not—But They're Still Hilarious)

By david k. israel | sep 22, 2011.

Okay, so we can't be 100 percent positive that these are from "actual" student papers. [Update: They are not.]

1. His thoughts tumbled in his head, making and breaking alliances like underpants in a dryer without Cling-Free.

2. He spoke with the wisdom that can only come from experience, like a guy who went blind because he looked at a solar eclipse without one of those boxes with a pinhole in it and now goes around the country speaking at high schools about the dangers of looking at a solar eclipse without one of those boxes with a pinhole in it.

3. She had a deep, throaty, genuine laugh, like that sound a dog makes just before it throws up.

4. Her vocabulary was as bad as, like, whatever.

5. He was as tall as a 6-foot, 3-inch tree.

6. The little boat gently drifted across the pond exactly the way a bowling ball wouldn't.

7. From the attic came an unearthly howl. The whole scene had an eerie, surreal quality, like when you're on vacation in another city and Jeopardy! comes on at 7:00 p.m. instead of 7:30.

8. The hailstones leaped from the pavement, just like maggots when you fry them in hot grease.

9. Long separated by cruel fate, the star-crossed lovers raced across the grassy field toward each other like two freight trains, one having left Cleveland at 6:36 p.m. traveling at 55 mph, the other from Topeka at 4:19 p.m. at a speed of 35 mph.

10. John and Mary had never met. They were like two hummingbirds who had also never met.

11. He fell for her like his heart was a mob informant, and she was the East River.

12. Even in his last years, Granddad had a mind like a steel trap, only one that had been left out so long, it had rusted shut.

13. Shots rang out, as shots are wont to do.

14. The plan was simple, like my brother-in-law George. But unlike George, this plan just might work.

15. The young fighter had a hungry look, the kind you get from not eating for a while.

16. He was as lame as a duck. Not the metaphorical lame duck, either, but a real duck that was actually lame, maybe from stepping on a land mine or something.

17. The ballerina rose gracefully en pointe and extended one slender leg behind her, like a dog at a fire hydrant.

18. It was an American tradition, like fathers chasing kids around with power tools.

[These metaphors and similes came from the Washington Post Style Invitational Bad Simile and Metaphor Contest .]

25 Metaphors for College

Metaphors are a powerful tool for understanding and communicating complex ideas.  

They can help us to make sense of experiences and concepts that might otherwise seem abstract or difficult to grasp. 

In this blog post, we’ll be exploring a variety of metaphors for college, each of which offers a unique perspective on the college experience. 

From journeys and rollercoasters to laboratories and playgrounds, these metaphors can help us to better understand and appreciate the challenges and opportunities of college life. 

Whether you’re a current college student, a recent graduate, or just starting to think about your own college journey, we hope these metaphors will give you something to think about and maybe even inspire you to come up with your own!

Metaphors for College

• “The college experience is a journey.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to traveling on a journey, implying that it is a learning experience that involves both challenges and growth.
• “College is a rollercoaster ride.” This metaphor likens the ups and downs of college life to the ups and downs of a rollercoaster, suggesting that it can be both exciting and challenging.
• “College is a marathon, not a sprint.” This metaphor compares the process of completing college to running a marathon, implying that it requires endurance and persistence.
• “College is a battlefield.” This metaphor compares the challenges and competition of college to the challenges and competition of a battlefield, suggesting that it requires a certain level of resilience and fortitude.
• “College is a melting pot.” This metaphor compares the diverse student body of a college to a melting pot, implying that it is a place where different cultures and experiences come together and merge.
• “College is a training ground.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to preparing for a sport or other activity, implying that it is a place where students can develop skills and knowledge that will serve them in the future.
• “College is a laboratory.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to conducting scientific experiments, implying that it is a place where students can explore and test ideas.
• “College is a garden.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to tending to a garden, implying that it requires cultivation and care in order to grow and flourish.
• “College is a puzzle.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to solving a puzzle, implying that it requires problem-solving skills and patience.
• “College is a stage.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to performing on a stage, implying that it is a place where students can develop and showcase their skills and talents.
• “College is a game.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to playing a game, implying that it requires strategy and competition.
• “College is a fishbowl.” This metaphor compares the experience of attending college to living in a fishbowl, implying that it is a place where students are constantly under scrutiny and observation.
• “College is a maze.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to navigating a maze, implying that it can be confusing and require careful planning and decision-making.
• “College is a tree.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to growing a tree, implying that it requires nurturing and support in order to reach its full potential.
• “College is a bridge.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to crossing a bridge, implying that it is a transitional period that leads to new opportunities.
• “College is a ladder.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to climbing a ladder, implying that it requires hard work and effort to achieve success.
• “College is a buffet.” This metaphor compares the variety of options and experiences available in college to a buffet, implying that students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of interests and activities.
• “College is a playground.” This metaphor compares the atmosphere of college to a playground, implying that it is a place for fun and exploration.
• “College is a workshop.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to working in a workshop, implying that it is a place where students can develop and hone their skills.
• “College is a sandbox.” This metaphor compares the freedom and experimentation available in college to playing in a sandbox, implying that it is a place where students can try out new ideas and approaches.
• “College is a greenhouse.” This metaphor compares the supportive environment of college to a greenhouse, implying that it is a place where students can grow and develop in a protected environment.
• “College is a laboratory of ideas.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to exploring and testing new ideas in a laboratory, implying that it is a place where students can engage in intellectual experimentation.
• “College is a museum of knowledge.” This metaphor compares the wealth of information and learning opportunities available in college to a museum, implying that it is a place where students can discover and explore new ideas.
• “College is a construction site.” This metaphor compares the process of attending college to building a structure, implying that it requires hard work and collaboration to achieve a final goal.
• “College is a tapestry.” This metaphor compares the diverse experiences and perspectives of college to a tapestry, implying that it is a place where different threads come together to create a rich and complex whole.

In conclusion, the college experience is rich and multifaceted, and it can be difficult to capture all of its complexities in words. 

However, by using metaphors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the college journey and the many ways in which it can shape our lives. 

Whether you see college as a journey, a rollercoaster ride, or something entirely different, the metaphor you choose can reveal something about your own perspective and experience. 

Ultimately, the metaphors we use to describe college are just one way to make sense of this exciting and transformative period of life, and we hope that this blog post has given you some food for thought as you navigate your own college journey.

Related Posts

25 metaphors for poetry, 25 metaphors for kids.

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Metaphors College Essays Samples For Students

124 samples of this type

Over the course of studying in college, you will surely have to write a bunch of College Essays on Metaphors. Lucky you if putting words together and turning them into meaningful content comes naturally to you; if it's not the case, you can save the day by finding an already written Metaphors College Essay example and using it as a template to follow.

This is when you will definitely find WowEssays' free samples database extremely helpful as it contains numerous professionally written works on most various Metaphors College Essays topics. Ideally, you should be able to find a piece that meets your criteria and use it as a template to build your own College Essay. Alternatively, our qualified essay writers can deliver you an original Metaphors College Essay model written from scratch according to your personal instructions.

Use Of Metaphors In Science Essay

Career metaphors essay examples, career metaphors.

As an introduction, it is vital to understand that Kerr Inkson (2007) proposes metaphors as a way to view careers. The following paper compares and contrasts Inkson’s characterization of careers as inheritance and journeys. It also assesses whether this conceptualization expands my understanding of career. Also, Inkson places a reliance on metaphors to understand careers coupled with assessing this reliance in relation to the three metaphors of careers provided by Inkson; Career as actions, roles, relationships and resources. A logical argument will be provided to support the use of one of the metaphors over the other three metaphors.

Careers as inheritance and journeys

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Why We Live In An Organizational World Essay Example

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Invisibility of Women - Literature analyses of “The Women Men Don’t See” by James Tiptree Jr. in compare and contrast to “Invisibility in Academe” by Adrienne Rich

Write By Example Of This Songs Of Innocence And Songs Of Experience By William Blake's Essay

Perfect model essay on comparison of poems, plays, and short stories, example of essay on critical response 6, richard iii by william shakespeare essay, act v, scene iii.

“The lights burn blue. It is now dead midnight.

Cold and fearful drops stand on my trembling flesh.

What do I fear? myself? there's none else by: Richard loves Richard; that is, I am I. Is there a murderer here? No. Yes, I am: Then fly. What, from myself? Great reason why: Lest I revenge. What, myself upon myself? Alack. I love myself. Wherefore? for any good

That I myself have done unto myself?

O, no! alas, I rather hate myself For hateful deeds committed by myself! I am a villain: yet I lie. I am not”.

“Methought the souls of all who I had murdered

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April 10, 2024

Writing Director Parag Budhecha Teaches All the Write Stuff

Guilford students write a lot of papers. Writing Director Parag Budhecha gives them the tools to put their thoughts onto paper.

“I absolutely loved helping other students craft their work and their words. That’s when I realized I was good at offering this kind of help and maybe I could help, maybe even teach, others how to write.” Parag Budhecha Writing Program Director

Within Parag Budhecha there resides a muse, albeit a small and reserved muse, who would love nothing more than to spark the next great American novel. You know, the kind of novel that propels Parag on book tours for weeks on end and has agents waiting outside her Archdale Hall office when she gets back. The kind of novel that’s optioned into a movie and has Hollywood calling to get her thoughts — Angela Bassett or Elizabeth Olsen? — for the lead.

Of course she’s wondered what it would be like to give voice to that character or find the single verb that enlivens the opening scene, sending readers on a page-flipping ride that ends with …

Stop right there. Don’t think this is the first time Guilford’s Writing Program Director has heard this question before. She does a little creative writing in her spare time, even wishes she could do more. “But that’s not what I really love,” she says. “What I Really love is helping other people write better.”

And for 13 years Parag’s been helping Guilford students do just that. She came to the College in 2009 from Duke, where she served as Associate Director of the university’s writing program. Parag’s a visiting assistant professor in Guilford’s English Department and, since 2011 has led the College’s Writing Program.

At their core, creative and academic writers require similar skills, says Parag. Both need to research their topics and discover what new ideas can be brought to the subject. “Academic writing is more about, ‘Hey, I have something to say, I have a contribution to make to this conversation I’ve been reading or hearing about,’ ” says Parag. “I like thinking about the most effective way I can get my idea across and persuade other people that I have a good idea or, at least, an idea they should consider.”

The ability to research, analyze and convey that information in clear, persuasive writing are good tools to possess, says Parag, not just over four years at a writing-intensive liberal arts college like Guilford, but in whatever work students land after college. The trick, she says, is getting students to appreciate the importance of the College’s composition and rhetoric classes that are a requirement for an overwhelming majority of Guilford students. Parag says most first-year students want to be anywhere but in her classroom researching claims and evidence, discovering rhetorical strategies, and learning to write for different audiences.

She doesn’t take this personally. Just as Parag asks her students to think about their audience before sitting down to write, she thinks about the audience in her classroom. “A lot of my students have had traumatic educational experiences with writing,” she says. “They’ve been told they don’t write the right way, or that they’re bad readers or writers. They feel like they’ve been punished for the kind of writing they do so they don’t want to be there. They don't see the benefit.”

Not initially at least. “Developing as a reader and writer is a slow burn,” says Parag. “I see some progress within a semester, but it’s not until a student’s junior or senior year when the lights maybe come on and everything comes together.

Cole Flaherty ’25, an Education major, remembers walking into Parag’s ENG 102 classroom last spring not knowing what to expect. “Each class was something new and different,” Cole says. “Sometimes professors teach the same stuff from 20 years ago, but that’s not Parag. She has really good lesson plans that a lot of students can relate to.

Parag was a sophomore at the University of Arizona when she realized she had “a gift”, as she calls it, of reading a book or an essay and putting her research, thoughts and feelings to paper. Parag's professors saw that gift , too, and made her one of the university's first writing tutors.

“I absolutely loved helping other students craft their work and their words,” she says. “That’s when I realized I was good at offering this kind of help and maybe I could help, maybe even teach, others how to write.”

That love of writing grew from a love of reading. Even as a child, Parag was a precocious reader. Her sister, who is nearly seven years older, was constantly telling her to read the book she’d just put down. “I was probably reading things way before I should have been reading them but that’s how I got hooked,” says Parag.

Parag says students today are reading and writing even more than previous generations thanks to social media. “Think about it – they’re always reading Instagram posts, and they're always texting back and forth,” she says.

The challenge for Parag is to help students enhance those Instagram Posts and texts. Earlier this spring she gave students a three-part assignment to do just that. Given the basic facts that a fictitious Joe Smith was found stabbed to death in a Greensboro Parking garage, students were first asked to write a murder story.

The story needed to include characters and their relevant background details as well as the investigation and subsequent court case. Students were then asked to write reports from four different perspectives: a detective’s report, the coroner’s report, a family member’s eulogy, and a closing argument from the prosecutor. It’s an assignment Parag uses with most of her rhetoric classes.

“I thought it was a really creative way to get us thinking about writing and who our audience is,” says Cole. “So one paper you’re writing from the coroner’s perspective and maybe it’s a lot more scientific with medical terms and then you’re writing from a family member at the funeral and it’s a little more personal. It’s a creative way for using some of the (rhetorical) principles that come into reading and writing. Her class has really helped me in other classes.”

Parag says that writing clearly comes only after students first begin to think clearly. "Those are two skills that feed off each other," says Parag.

Cole understands and appreciates what Parag has instilled in him at Guilford. "When I sit down to write, it's almost always the same," he says. "My thoughts are kind of scattered everywhere. It's the sitting down to write that helps me sort out my thoughts and connect them to the topic logically. "They may not have been written down, but Cole's words are music to Parag's ears. No matter who you are or what you want to do — a teacher, a politician, a lawyer, a business person — writing forces you to make choices and bring clarity and order to your ideas, she says.

“I want students to recognize what they're learning is going to do more than just help them in my class,” she says. “I want them to be ready to write or communicate not just for their next class or courses in their major but also when they get a job.”  

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Colleges Rates and Requirements

Find the right college for you., core college requirements for competitive acceptance rates.

As you start thinking about which colleges to apply to and how to put together your college applications, don’t forget to familiarize yourself with current admissions requirements and acceptance trends. You may have seen recent headlines about college acceptance rates and how low they were for students who applied to the most selective colleges and universities. It’s important to remember that while admissions requirements for the most competitive schools didn’t change, the number of students applying to these types of institutions has gradually increased. As a result, acceptance rates of colleges, particularly elite universities, decreased. You should also keep in mind that due to the covid-19 pandemic, most institutions saw a spike in applications. This has caused acceptance rates to further decrease.

The headlines shouldn’t deter you from moving ahead with the application process. Although it might feel seem like there’s more competition than ever before, it’s important to remember two things: Acceptance rates vary among colleges, and most colleges accept two-thirds of applicants. Once you understand what college entrance requirements are and how to interpret college admission rates, you'll be better prepared to find the right school for you.

Understand These Key Requirements for College Applications.

Each college uses its own formula when evaluating applicants, and these practices vary from school to school. In addition, many colleges over the last few years have begun instituting "test optional" and "test flexible" policies for the SAT and ACT. Despite these factors, colleges still look for certain key requirements. You can learn more about admissions requirements for individual colleges in College Search .

Standard Core Curriculum and Beyond

All colleges emphasize GPA requirements, but they focus particularly on performance in core subject areas such as mathematics, science, English, and history. Colleges look at your grades, curriculum, and the courses you take as indicators of your ability to be successful in college. To get a better understanding of which colleges might be the best fit for you, research the GPA requirements for colleges you’re interested in. Also look at the range of GPAs accepted at those institutions on the BigFuture College Search tool. Consider taking more advanced coursework such as AP courses if it fits with your career goals and if your school offers them.

Extracurriculars

Extracurriculars are where you can really stand out, especially from others with similar grades. Extra academic activities show off your personal strengths and interests to admissions officers. Ideally, they want to see students who were deeply involved in school activities outside of the classroom and held leadership positions. Learn more about how extracurriculars matter to you and colleges .

Application Essay

For colleges that require it, the application essay can be a very important part of your application and is your pitch to the university. This is your opportunity to show the school of your dreams the unique individual you are, something that may not necessarily be conveyed in your transcript. It indicates how your talents will contribute to their community. Find tips for writing your college essay here.

Standardized Test Scores

Though the trend in some U.S. colleges has been to put less emphasis on SAT scores, make no mistake: They still play an important role in the college admissions process. Test scores are still used by many colleges for course placement and merit aid. High test scores can also help you stand out and strengthen your college application. If you’re not sure if you should submit your scores, talk to your school counselor or the college’s admissions officer for guidance.

Letters of Recommendation

Although not required by all colleges, letters of recommendation can give admissions counselors insight into who you are beyond just your grades and activities. If letters are required by the institutions you’re applying to, the college will let you know who they want letters from. It’s usually a teacher or counselor. Pick someone who knows you well.

Keep on Top of College Application Deadlines.

Application deadlines can sneak up on high school seniors like a tiger in the night. It’s of utmost importance that you double-check your prospective school’s application deadlines and submit everything you need sooner rather than later. Most college application deadlines fall into the following categories:

Understand the College Application Platform.

There are two main types of college applications : The Common Application and the Coalition Application, which allow students to apply to multiple schools using a single application platform. You should check with the institutions you’re interested in applying to see which application platform they prefer.

How Do College Acceptance Rates Work?

A college’s acceptance rate is actually a ratio. It's the total number of applicants in relation to the number of students who were accepted. For example, Harvard received applications from 61,220 students in 2022─the highest-ever number of applicants to the school. Of those, only 1,214 received admission, leading to the school’s lowest-ever acceptance rate of 3.19%.

This illustrates the point earlier that college acceptance rates are on a decline as the number of applicants increases, saturating the pool with more competition than ever before.

Acceptance rates are based on the number of spots available at a college. This is a set number of applicants who can be admitted to that class of graduates, and it's not subject to change based on the volume of applicants. As you can imagine, more competitive schools, such as Ivy League colleges and universities, have fewer spots available and are thus affected more by the number of applicants.

This same logic applies to private and public colleges. Public colleges, which are characteristically larger institutions, will admit greater numbers of students, leading to higher acceptance rates. However, public colleges have also been impacted by a larger number of applicants. When you’re building your college list, it’s advisable to include a balance of reach, match, and safety schools to improve your chances of acceptance.

It's important to keep in mind that college admission rates don’t necessarily reflect the quality of education or the quality of students who apply, and you shouldn’t be discouraged from applying to schools based on these numbers.

What is the Difference Between Admission Yield and Enrollment Rate?

Admission yield is the percentage of students who accepted enrollment into a college after being granted admission. These vary significantly from school to school. For example, the University of California, Berkeley’s yield rate for 2022 was just 40% while the yield rate for Yale was a whopping 83%.

As students apply to greater numbers of colleges and have more options, yield rates decline.

Review the Latest College Acceptance Rate Stats.

Students faced competitive acceptance rates in 2022. Common Application public colleges and universities saw a 24% surge of applicants since 2019-20 and 17% for private institutions. Meanwhile, the acceptance rates continue to decline. For example, Emory University’s acceptance rate fell 8 percentage points between 2020 and 2022.

Students who are eyeing colleges with highly competitive acceptance rates must focus more than ever on the things that will set them apart: exceptional performance beyond the standard core curriculum, strong extracurricular participation, powerful application essays, letters of recommendation, and excellent standardized test scores. However, even with all of these differentiators, it’s important to remember that none of these can guarantee acceptance, especially at selective institutions. Be sure to build a balanced college list that gives you options.

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Guest Essay

The Troubling Trend in Teenage Sex

By Peggy Orenstein

Ms. Orenstein is the author of “Boys & Sex: Young Men on Hookups, Love, Porn, Consent and Navigating the New Masculinity” and “Girls & Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape.”

Debby Herbenick is one of the foremost researchers on American sexual behavior. The director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion at Indiana University and the author of the pointedly titled book “Yes, Your Kid,” she usually shares her data, no matter how explicit, without judgment. So I was surprised by how concerned she seemed when we checked in on Zoom recently: “I haven’t often felt so strongly about getting research out there,” she told me. “But this is lifesaving.”

For the past four years, Dr. Herbenick has been tracking the rapid rise of “rough sex” among college students, particularly sexual strangulation, or what is colloquially referred to as choking. Nearly two-thirds of women in her most recent campus-representative survey of 5,000 students at an anonymized “major Midwestern university” said a partner had choked them during sex (one-third in their most recent encounter). The rate of those women who said they were between the ages 12 and 17 the first time that happened had shot up to 40 percent from one in four.

As someone who’s been writing for well over a decade about young people’s attitudes and early experience with sex in all its forms, I’d also begun clocking this phenomenon. I was initially startled in early 2020 when, during a post-talk Q. and A. at an independent high school, a 16-year-old girl asked, “How come boys all want to choke you?” In a different class, a 15-year-old boy wanted to know, “Why do girls all want to be choked?” They do? Not long after, a college sophomore (and longtime interview subject) contacted me after her roommate came home in tears because a hookup partner, without warning, had put both hands on her throat and squeezed.

I started to ask more, and the stories piled up. Another sophomore confided that she enjoyed being choked by her boyfriend, though it was important for a partner to be “properly educated” — pressing on the sides of the neck, for example, rather than the trachea. (Note: There is no safe way to strangle someone.) A male freshman said “girls expected” to be choked and, even though he didn’t want to do it, refusing would make him seem like a “simp.” And a senior in high school was angry that her friends called her “vanilla” when she complained that her boyfriend had choked her.

Sexual strangulation, nearly always of women in heterosexual pornography, has long been a staple on free sites, those default sources of sex ed for teens . As with anything else, repeat exposure can render the once appalling appealing. It’s not uncommon for behaviors to be normalized in porn, move within a few years to mainstream media, then, in what may become a feedback loop, be adopted in the bedroom or the dorm room.

Choking, Dr. Herbenick said, seems to have made that first leap in a 2008 episode of Showtime’s “Californication,” where it was still depicted as outré, then accelerated after the success of “Fifty Shades of Grey.” By 2019, when a high school girl was choked in the pilot of HBO’s “Euphoria,” it was standard fare. A young woman was choked in the opener of “The Idol” (again on HBO and also, like “Euphoria,” created by Sam Levinson; what’s with him ?). Ali Wong plays the proclivity for laughs in a Netflix special, and it’s a punchline in Tina Fey’s new “Mean Girls.” The chorus of Jack Harlow’s “Lovin On Me,” which topped Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for six nonconsecutive weeks this winter and has been viewed over 99 million times on YouTube, starts with, “I’m vanilla, baby, I’ll choke you, but I ain’t no killer, baby.” How-to articles abound on the internet, and social media algorithms feed young people (but typically not their unsuspecting parents) hundreds of #chokemedaddy memes along with memes that mock — even celebrate — the potential for hurting or killing female partners.

I’m not here to kink-shame (or anything-shame). And, anyway, many experienced BDSM practitioners discourage choking, believing it to be too dangerous. There are still relatively few studies on the subject, and most have been done by Dr. Herbenick and her colleagues. Reports among adolescents are now trickling out from the United Kingdom , Australia , Iceland , New Zealand and Italy .

Twenty years ago, sexual asphyxiation appears to have been unusual among any demographic, let alone young people who were new to sex and iffy at communication. That’s changed radically in a short time, with health consequences that parents, educators, medical professionals, sexual consent advocates and teens themselves urgently need to understand.

Sexual trends can spread quickly on campus and, to an extent, in every direction. But, at least among straight kids, I’ve sometimes noticed a pattern: Those that involve basic physical gratification — like receiving oral sex in hookups — tend to favor men. Those that might entail pain or submission, like choking, are generally more for women.

So, while undergrads of all genders and sexualities in Dr. Herbenick’s surveys report both choking and being choked, straight and bisexual young women are far more likely to have been the subjects of the behavior; the gap widens with greater occurrences. (In a separate study , Dr. Herbenick and her colleagues found the behavior repeated across the United States, particularly for adults under 40, and not just among college students.) Alcohol may well be involved, and while the act is often engaged in with a steady partner, a quarter of young women said partners they’d had sex with on the day they’d met also choked them.

Either way, most say that their partners never or only sometimes asked before grabbing their necks. For many, there had been moments when they couldn’t breathe or speak, compromising the ability to withdraw consent, if they’d given it. No wonder that, in a separate study by Dr. Herbenick, choking was among the most frequently listed sex acts young women said had scared them, reporting that it sometimes made them worry whether they’d survive.

Among girls and women I’ve spoken with, many did not want or like to be sexually strangled, though in an otherwise desired encounter they didn’t name it as assault . Still, a sizable number were enthusiastic; they requested it. It is exciting to feel so vulnerable, a college junior explained. The power dynamic turns her on; oxygen deprivation to the brain can trigger euphoria.

That same young woman, incidentally, had never climaxed with a partner: While the prevalence of choking has skyrocketed, rates of orgasm among young women have not increased, nor has the “orgasm gap” disappeared among heterosexual couples. “It indicates they’re not doing other things to enhance female arousal or pleasure,” Dr. Herbenick said.

When, for instance, she asked one male student who said he choked his partner whether he’d ever tried using a vibrator instead, he recoiled. “Why would I do that?” he asked.

Perhaps, she responded, because it would be more likely to produce orgasm without risking, you know, death.

In my interviews, college students have seen male orgasm as a given; women’s is nice if it happens, but certainly not expected or necessarily prioritized (by either partner). It makes sense, then, that fulfillment would be less the motivator for choking than appearing adventurous or kinky. Such performances don’t always feel good.

“Personally, my hypothesis is that this is one of the reasons young people are delaying or having less sex,” Dr. Herbenick said. “Because it’s uncomfortable and weird and scary. At times some of them literally think someone is assaulting them but they don’t know. Those are the only sexual experiences for some people. And it’s not just once they’ve gotten naked. They’ll say things like, ‘I’ve only tried to make out with someone once because he started choking and hitting me.’”

Keisuke Kawata, a neuroscientist at Indiana University’s School of Public Health, was one of the first researchers to sound the alarm on how the cumulative, seemingly inconsequential, sub-concussive hits football players sustain (as opposed to the occasional hard blow) were key to triggering C.T.E., the degenerative brain disease. He’s a good judge of serious threats to the brain. In response to Dr. Herbenick’s work, he’s turning his attention to sexual strangulation. “I see a similarity” to C.T.E., he told me, “though the mechanism of injury is very different.” In this case, it is oxygen-blocking pressure to the throat, frequently in light, repeated bursts of a few seconds each.

Strangulation — sexual or otherwise — often leaves few visible marks and can be easily overlooked as a cause of death. Those whose experiences are nonlethal rarely seek medical attention, because any injuries seem minor: Young women Dr. Herbenick studied mostly reported lightheadedness, headaches, neck pain, temporary loss of coordination and ear ringing. The symptoms resolve, and all seems well. But, as with those N.F.L. players, the true effects are silent, potentially not showing up for days, weeks, even years.

According to the American Academy of Neurology, restricting blood flow to the brain, even briefly, can cause permanent injury, including stroke and cognitive impairment. In M.R.I.s conducted by Dr. Kawata and his colleagues (including Dr. Herbenick, who is a co-author of his papers on strangulation), undergraduate women who have been repeatedly choked show a reduction in cortical folding in the brain compared with a never-choked control group. They also showed widespread cortical thickening, an inflammation response that is associated with elevated risk of later-onset mental illness. In completing simple memory tasks, their brains had to work far harder than the control group, recruiting from more regions to achieve the same level of accuracy.

The hemispheres in the choked group’s brains, too, were badly skewed, with the right side hyperactive and the left underperforming. A similar imbalance is associated with mood disorders — and indeed in Dr. Herbenick’s surveys girls and women who had been choked were more likely than others (or choked men) to have experienced overwhelming anxiety, as well as sadness and loneliness, with the effect more pronounced as the incidence rose: Women who had experienced more than five instances of choking were two and a half times as likely as those who had never been choked to say they had been so depressed within the previous 30 days they couldn’t function. Whether girls and women with mental health challenges are more likely to seek out (or be subjected to) choking, choking causes mood disorders, or some combination of the two is still unclear. But hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation — judging by what research has shown about other types of traumatic brain injury — could be a contributing factor. Given the soaring rates of depression and anxiety among young women, that warrants concern.

Now consider that every year Dr. Herbenick has done her survey, the number of females reporting extreme effects from strangulation (neck swelling, loss of consciousness, losing control of urinary function) has crept up. Among those who’ve been choked, the rate of becoming what students call “cloudy” — close to passing out, but not crossing the line — is now one in five, a huge proportion. All of this indicates partners are pressing on necks longer and harder.

The physical, cognitive and psychological impacts of sexual choking are disturbing. So is the idea that at a time when women’s social, economic, educational and political power are in ascent (even if some of those rights may be in jeopardy), when #MeToo has made progress against harassment and assault, there has been the popularization of a sex act that can damage our brains, impair intellectual functioning, undermine mental health, even kill us. Nonfatal strangulation, one of the most significant indicators that a man will murder his female partner (strangulation is also one of the most common methods used for doing so), has somehow been eroticized and made consensual, at least consensual enough. Yet, the outcomes are largely the same: Women’s brains and bodies don’t distinguish whether they are being harmed out of hate or out of love.

By now I’m guessing that parents are curled under their chairs in a fetal position. Or perhaps thinking, “No, not my kid!” (see: title of Dr. Herbenick’s book above, which, by the way, contains an entire chapter on how to talk to your teen about “rough sex”).

I get it. It’s scary stuff. Dr. Herbenick is worried; I am, too. And we are hardly some anti-sex, wait-till-marriage crusaders. But I don’t think our only option is to wring our hands over what young people are doing.

Parents should take a beat and consider how they might give their children relevant information in a way that they can hear it. Maybe reiterate that they want them to have a pleasurable sex life — you have already said that, right? — and also want them to be safe. Tell them that misinformation about certain practices, including choking, is rampant, that in reality it has grave health consequences. Plus, whether or not a partner initially requested it, if things go wrong, you’re generally criminally on the hook.

Dr. Herbenick suggests reminding them that there are other, lower-risk ways to be exploratory or adventurous if that is what they are after, but it would be wisest to delay any “rough sex” until they are older and more skilled at communicating. She offers language when negotiating with a new partner, such as, “By the way, I’m not comfortable with” — choking, or other escalating behaviors such as name-calling, spitting and genital slapping — “so please don’t do it/don’t ask me to do it to you.” They could also add what they are into and want to do together.

I’d like to point high school health teachers to evidence-based porn literacy curricula, but I realize that incorporating such lessons into their classrooms could cost them their jobs. Shafia Zaloom, a lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, recommends, if that’s the case, grounding discussions in mainstream and social media. There are plenty of opportunities. “You can use it to deconstruct gender norms, power dynamics in relationships, ‘performative’ trends that don’t represent most people’s healthy behaviors,” she said, “especially depictions of people putting pressure on someone’s neck or chest.”

I also know that pediatricians, like other adults, struggle when talking to adolescents about sex (the typical conversation, if it happens, lasts 40 seconds). Then again, they already caution younger children to use a helmet when they ride a bike (because heads and necks are delicate!); they can mention that teens might hear about things people do in sexual situations, including choking, then explain the impact on brain health and why such behavior is best avoided. They should emphasize that if, for any reason — a fall, a sports mishap or anything else — a young person develops symptoms of head trauma, they should come in immediately, no judgment, for help in healing.

The role and responsibility of the entertainment industry is a tangled knot: Media reflects behavior but also drives it, either expanding possibilities or increasing risks. There is precedent for accountability. The European Union now requires age verification on the world’s largest porn sites (in ways that preserve user privacy, whatever that means on the internet); that discussion, unsurprisingly, had been politicized here. Social media platforms have already been pushed to ban content promoting eating disorders, self-harm and suicide — they should likewise be pressured to ban content promoting choking. Traditional formats can stop glamorizing strangulation, making light of it, spreading false information, using it to signal female characters’ complexity or sexual awakening. Young people’s sexual scripts are shaped by what they watch, scroll by and listen to — unprecedentedly so. They deserve, and desperately need, models of interactions that are respectful, communicative, mutual and, at the very least, safe.

Peggy Orenstein is the author of “Boys & Sex: Young Men on Hookups, Love, Porn, Consent and Navigating the New Masculinity” and “Girls & Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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An earlier version of this article misstated the network on which “Californication” first appeared. It is Showtime, not HBO. The article also misspelled a book and film title. It is “Fifty Shades of Grey,” not “Fifty Shades of Gray.”

How we handle corrections

Reinstating the SATs Will Only Make Rich Kids Richer

A t America’s wealthiest colleges, the SAT is back with a vengeance, and it’s easy enough to see who will suffer: socioeconomically disadvantaged students of color.

Over the past few weeks, Dartmouth , Yale , Brown , and Harvard have all announced that they will require standardized test scores from all applicants next fall after suspending their use during the pandemic.

Between the spring of 2020 and the winter of 2021, the number of four-year universities and colleges with test-optional policies doubled from 713 to 1,350 including, notably, all eight Ivy League schools. Colleges touted the shift as progressive. “Students have never been treated as numbers,” Colorado College posted on its website. “Our test-optional policy allows our team to identify the most qualified candidates for admission while also increasing access for first-generation, low-income, and traditionally underserved students.” Even Harvard was on board. “People somehow think that if you don’t have test scores it’s very hard to evaluate an application, but you have teacher reports, you have grades,” Harvard’s admissions dean Bill Fitzsimmons said in 2022. “There’s an enormous amount of academic information.”

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision in SFFA v. Harvard , which effectively ended race-based affirmative action, it was possible to envision career-defining standardized testing heading for the scrap bin of history, too. After all, the SAT and ACT have long been known to correlate closely with wealth. One recent study found that students from families in the top 1% of the income distribution are 13 times more likely than students from the bottom 20 percent to score 1300 or higher on the SAT. Just 2.5% of students from the lowest income quintile manage to reach 1300.

If colleges wanted to preserve diversity—and could no longer consider an applicant’s race—surely they could no longer place great weight on a metric that functions principally as a marker of the applicant’s wealth.

Not so fast.

Elite colleges are whistling quite a different tune than they were just two years ago. The reimplementation of standardized testing has coincided with a spate of personal anecdotes , research , and articles extolling their putative benefits. Christina Paxson, the president of Brown University, recently touted the SAT and ACT for revealing “useful information about whether students will, on average, be academically successful at Brown.”

Read More: I Took the SAT Again in My 50s. Turns Out I Had Learned Nothing

One could understand the need for standardized testing at public colleges, where more than a third of entering students fail to graduate within six years. But it’s a curious argument to be advanced by Brown, where the six-year graduation rate is 96% and for Pell Grant recipients is 93%.

Another line of defense is that the SAT is the best friend of the downtrodden. Harvard economist David Deming said , “My worry is that if we get rid of the SAT, you’re getting rid of the only way that a low-income student who’s academically talented has to distinguish themselves.” It’s again a curious argument to be made, especially by schools like Brown and Harvard, each of which counts itself among the 38 American colleges where more students come from families in the top 1% of the income distribution than the bottom 60%. This is true even though Brown has an endowment of $6.6 billion and Harvard the nation’s largest— $50.9 billion .

It's even more curious, still, given that in the same letter in which Paxson announced the return to standardized testing, she reaffirmed Brown’s commitment to early decision—which has long been known to hurt poorer students who can’t afford to commit to a college without comparing financial aid packages—and to the preference it affords to the children, of alumni, donors, faculty, staff, and athletic recruits—pathways that overwhelmingly benefit rich, white applicants, otherwise known as “ALDC” applicants. At Harvard, for example, 43% of white students are “ALDC.” Research shows that about three quarters of these students would have been rejected without their ALDC status.

Read More: The Case Against Private College Admissions Counselors

So what’s really going on?

To understand, one need only take a closer look at the most widely cited study by Deming and his colleagues Raj Chetty and John Friedman. Standardized test scores, the story goes, are a much better predictor of college success than high school GPA. What are their principal markers of “college success?” Attending an “elite graduate school” and “working at a prestigious firm.” The outcome they’re looking at is the accumulation of wealth not knowledge. Is it any surprise that rich kids both outperform lower-SES kids on the SAT and at getting investment banking jobs at Goldman Sachs and consulting jobs at McKinsey?

What if these researchers and college administrators instead adopted this definition of success: the student maintained a college GPA of over 3.0, learned and grew as a person, and got a significant benefit in terms of economic mobility? By this standard, virtually every socioeconomically disadvantaged kid admitted to one of these prestigious, highly endowed colleges is a success.

But this interpretation of the data and definition of the object of college would be decidedly inconvenient and mask the true object of elite colleges: to make rich kids richer.

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EMCON students sweep 2024 AAHN essay contest

Both undergraduate and graduate winners are emcon students..

Two Elaine Marieb College of Nursing students have won the 2024 Sarah B. Pasternack Nursing Student Essay Contest . Ameneh Arzheh (PhD Nursing) and Shaely Lora-Brito (BSN) won the respective graduate and undergraduate categories in the contest. They will each receive a $500 prize and will read their essays during a Nursing Archives Associates meeting later this spring.

Both students responded to the prompt: "Why is understanding nursing history important to the future of nursing?" Lora-Brito opens likening the history of nursing to the unfolding pages of a diary.

"Understanding the history of nursing is like unfolding the pages of a diary that holds the secrets to the soul of healthcare... Knowing the history of nursing isn't just a look back into the past; it's a guiding light that illuminates the way to the future." 

Lora-Brito goes on to discuss the historical importance of Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African-American licensed nurse, writing, "Mahoney's story teaches us that nursing is not just about the skills and knowledge we acquire but also about the values we embody and the changes we strive to make, not only in healthcare but in society as a whole."

Arzheh also opens with the perspective that understanding history allows us to shape the future of nursing with an informed lens, with a specific focus on nursing theory.

"Nursing theory played a pivotal role in establishing the profession's unique identity... Nursing theories contribute significantly to shaping the profession by offering unique worldviews that enrich our understanding of nursing practice."

Using theory by which to evolve the profession and industry, Arzheh writes, helps shape nurse self-awareness, too. "This self-awareness becomes a catalyst for developing a deeper and more empathetic connection with patients," Arzheh argues.

Only two winning essays are selected each year for this prestigious contest. The winning essays will eventually be published in full on the Nursing Archives Associates website. The contest is in honor of Sarah Pasternack, MA, RN, who "served as the President of the Nursing Archives Associates for more than 20 years. She received the Living Legend Award from the ANA Massachusetts in 2014. Sarah was an Assistant Professor at Boston University School of Nursing and a Nursing Patient Services Director and an Advanced Practice Nurse in Patient Safety and Quality at Boston Children’s Hospital," according to AAHN .

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Your visit to the East Side Gallery

You can find all you need to know for your visit to the East Side Gallery on the Berlin Wall Foundation website.

Stiftung Berliner Mauer

Theodor Tezhik

The big kremlin’s wind.

Theodor Tezhik was born in Elektrostal (Russia) in 1946 and lives in Prague. In 1989 he was the first Russian to paint on the Berlin Wall. His painting “The Big Kremlin’s Wind” shows the soviet president Gorbachev flying into a crowd of people above the Kremlin in Moscow. The painting addresses the role the Kremlin played in the fall of the Wall.

The artist completed his colourful work “The Big Kremlin’s Wind” in only two days. It depicts a blustery storm whirling people into the air and causing the towers of the Kremlin in Moscow to bend. The later Russian president Mikhail Gorbachev is shown hanging upside down in the air. The phrase “Tempus fugit” (“Time flees”) along the upper edge is a reminder of the role the Kremlin played in the fall of the Wall and of how suddenly the political circumstances can change – as shown at the time in both East Germany and the then Soviet Union.

Tezhik graduated from the Moscow College of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture in 1970 and worked as a set designer for theatre and film. He became known for his fantastical set sculptures and inventive use of visual metaphors. He has also produced music videos for bands and acclaimed stage productions as artist-in-chief of the International Theatre Olympics in Moscow as well as author and director of various plays for the festival.