You and nine peers have been selected to apply for an important college scholarship. Only one student will be awarded the scholarship. You have been asked to write a brief essay to the scholarship committee in which you share an important event in your life that significantly changed you, your view about life, your life goals, or your character for the better. Apply narrative techniques, a solid prewriting strategy, and creative sentence patterns to share your story and stand apart from other applicants. The final narrative should be at least three paragraphs in length and include a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Follow the template below to create your narrative outline:
Introduction: topic
Thesis statement
Body topic sentence (beginning)
Details
details
Body topic sentence (middle)
Details
Reflection/Conclusion (end)
Details

7 answers

Outline for Narrative Essay

Introduction: Topic
Life is filled with moments that redefine our beliefs, aspirations, and place in the world. One particular event in my journey—a summer spent volunteering at a local homeless shelter—transformed not only how I perceive the struggles of others but also shaped my long-term commitment to social justice.

Thesis Statement
Through this experience, I learned the profound impact of compassion, resilience, and the shared humanity that binds each of us, steering my life goals toward service and advocacy for those less fortunate.


Body Topic Sentence (Beginning)
The summer of my junior year marked a turning point in my understanding of privilege and community when I stepped through the doors of the shelter, apprehensive yet eager to help.

Details
As I arrived, the smell of home-cooked meals wafted through the air, mixing with the laughter of children playing in the yard. Initially, I felt like an outsider, overwhelmed by the stark realities confronting the people I was there to assist. However, as I began to serve meals and engage in conversations, I quickly learned that these individuals had stories much like my own—filled with dreams, struggles, and hopes. Each smile exchanged and each story shared broke down the walls of my preconceived notions, allowing a sense of connection to flourish.

Details
One man, in particular, named David, became a beacon of inspiration for me. Although he faced daily battles with homelessness, he welcomed each day with an unbreakable spirit and unwavering gratitude. Our conversations opened my eyes to the complexities of life’s circumstances; I began to understand that resilience is often forged in the fires of adversity. David’s optimism sparked a profound change within me, enticing a wave of empathy that shifted my perspective on life's challenges.


Body Topic Sentence (Middle)
As the summer progressed, I found myself deeply invested in the lives of those around me, forever changed by the stories I absorbed and the relationships I fostered.

Details
I organized activities for the children at the shelter, introducing them to art and music as a means of expression and joy. Watching their faces light up with imagination filled me with a sense of purpose I had never experienced before. Through the laughter and creativity, I realized that while the adults bore the weight of survival, the children carried an innate hope that could not be dimmed. This realization became a catalyst for my commitment to create opportunities for others, igniting a passion within me to advocate for social change and equity.


Reflection/Conclusion (End)
Reflecting on my time at the shelter, I understand that it was not just a volunteer experience; it was a life-altering journey that forged my character and clarified my aspirations.

Details
Because of David and all the remarkable individuals I met, I now aspire to become a social worker, dedicating my life to uplifting those caught in the web of injustice. The experience taught me that my voice can be a powerful tool for change, and I am determined to use it. I emerged from that summer not only with a deeper understanding of the world around me but also with a commitment to serve others, armed with compassion and the belief that we all share a fundamental humanity, regardless of our circumstances. This scholarship would not just support my educational journey; it would further fuel my resolve to make an impactful difference in people's lives.

write about something different

Outline for Narrative Essay

Introduction: Topic
We often think of challenges as obstacles to overcome, but sometimes, they can serve as transformative catalysts for personal growth. For me, learning to play the violin after years of self-doubt became a defining moment that reshaped my identity and ambitions.

Thesis Statement
Through the struggles and triumphs of mastering this complex instrument, I discovered not only my capacity for dedication but also an unwavering belief in the power of perseverance, which continues to guide my life goals.


Body Topic Sentence (Beginning)
When I first picked up the violin at the age of twelve, I was filled with excitement, but underneath, I battled an overwhelming fear of failure.

Details
The moment my teacher handed me the bow, my hands trembled with anticipation. I had always admired musicians, their ability to evoke profound emotions through mere strings and wood, but could I ever be one of them? My initial practice sessions were fraught with squeaks and off-key notes, and frustration often led me to put the instrument down, questioning my decision to attempt such a daunting task. Yet, there was something inside me—a flicker of hope—that propelled me to try again, time and time again.

Details
Every practice, I slowly built a repertoire of scales and simple melodies. I vividly remember the day I finally played “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” without a single mistake. As the final note resonated in the air, a wave of pride washed over me. That seemingly small achievement ignited a spark within, unveiling the realization that perseverance could yield tangible rewards, and I was capable of far more than I had ever imagined.


Body Topic Sentence (Middle)
As the months passed, my journey with the violin evolved from mere practice to a deep-seated passion that fundamentally changed my outlook on life.

Details
Every lesson became an exploration of not just music but of my commitment to growth. I began to appreciate the concept of delayed gratification, understanding that mastery takes time and effort. I sought more challenging pieces, often rehearsing late into the night, losing myself in the melodies. With each setback, whether hitting a wrong note during practice or struggling with a particularly challenging piece, I learned to approach obstacles differently—embracing them as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks to success.

Details
This transformative mindset extended beyond the music room. I began to apply it to my academics, viewing challenging subjects not as burdens but as puzzles to solve. With the ability to persevere firmly ingrained in me, I found myself achieving grades I had previously only dreamed about. The confidence I built through my musical journey spilled over into every aspect of my life, propelling me to join clubs, take on leadership roles, and engage in community service with renewed enthusiasm.


Reflection/Conclusion (End)
Reflecting on my violin journey, I recognize that it was more than just learning an instrument; it was about embracing the uncomfortable and finding joy in the struggle.

Details
The lessons I learned resonate deeply with my life goals today. I aspire to inspire others to overcome their fears and embrace their passions, just as I did with the violin. This scholarship would enable me to further my education in music therapy, allowing me to combine my love for music with my desire to help others heal and grow. In many ways, the violin taught me about resilience, empathy, and the beauty of hard work—values I carry with me as I navigate the next stages of my life. After all, like the melodies I have come to love, life’s most beautiful moments are often composed through perseverance and an open heart.

something different

Outline for Narrative Essay

Introduction: Topic
Sometimes, the most significant changes in our lives come from moments of unexpected connection. For me, a chance encounter with an elderly man at a community park not only reshaped my perspective on aging but also instilled in me a deeper appreciation for the wisdom that comes with life experience.

Thesis Statement
Through our conversations and the stories he shared, I learned to value the richness of human experience, which altered my approach to relationships, my future aspirations, and my understanding of what it means to live fully.


Body Topic Sentence (Beginning)
One sunny afternoon during a long summer break, I stumbled upon a grassy area in the park where I often went to read and escape the boredom of vacation.

Details
As I settled on a bench with my book, the quiet was soon interrupted by a cheerful voice, “Mind if I join you?” I looked up to see a man in his late seventies, his kind eyes twinkling beneath the brim of a well-worn hat. His presence was both surprising and comforting, and without hesitation, I nodded, inviting him to take a seat. Little did I know that our brief exchange would lead to impactful conversations about life, dreams, and the passage of time.

Details
His name was Mr. Thompson, a retired schoolteacher who had dedicated his life to educating young minds. With each story he shared about his adventures—from sailing across oceans to mentoring students who went on to change the world—I found myself captivated. He painted vivid pictures of past experiences, letting me see the world through his eyes. His enthusiasm for life was infectious, as he recounted how he faced each challenge with a sense of curiosity and determination, and I listened intently, the initial apprehension of the encounter dissolving into curiosity.


Body Topic Sentence (Middle)
As our weekly meetings in the park became a cherished routine, I found myself learning not just about Mr. Thompson’s past but reflecting on my own dreams and aspirations.

Details
Mr. Thompson’s ability to reminisce without regret was particularly striking. He spoke about missed opportunities and moments of hardship, but instead of dwelling on them, he highlighted the lessons learned and the friendships made along the way. Inspired by his words, I began to contemplate my own fears—primarily my uncertainty about the future. I often became overwhelmed by pressure to excel and conform to societal expectations. Yet, as I listened to him, I realized that my journey was unique and should be embraced on its own merits.

Details
Encouraged by this newfound perspective, I began to open up about my passions—writing and art. Mr. Thompson’s encouragement re-ignited my creativity and led me to take risks in pursuing my interests. With his guidance, I even submitted a piece of writing to a local contest, something I would have never done had it not been for his unwavering support. When I received a letter saying I had won second place, I felt a sense of accomplishment and validation that pushed me to embrace more of my creative pursuits.


Reflection/Conclusion (End)
Through my friendship with Mr. Thompson, I discovered that age is not a barrier to connection and that meaningful conversations can lead to profound realizations.

Details
As our time in the park came to an end—he eventually moved to be closer to his family—I was left with lasting lessons about life, resilience, and the power of storytelling. This encounter changed my outlook on aging and my future aspirations, prompting me to consider a career in education, where I could pass on the knowledge and inspiration I received. The wisdom I gained from Mr. Thompson has become a guiding light in my life, reminding me that every person has a story worth sharing and that it is never too late to pursue passions and build connections. This scholarship would pave the way for my educational journey, allowing me to honor my commitment to learning and teaching, just as Mr. Thompson did for me.

i need something simple that a 10th grader would talk about

Outline for Narrative Essay

Introduction: Topic
Life is full of moments that can change us, often when we least expect it. For me, a simple experience of volunteering at my local animal shelter opened my eyes to compassion and responsibility.

Thesis Statement
Through caring for the animals and witnessing their struggles, I learned valuable lessons about empathy, the importance of service, and how small actions can make a big difference.


Body Topic Sentence (Beginning)
My experience at the animal shelter began on a warm Saturday morning, when I decided to sign up as a volunteer, looking for something meaningful to do during my summer break.

Details
I remember my first day vividly; I was nervous but excited as I walked through the shelter’s doors, greeted by the sound of barking dogs and the sight of cats playing in their enclosures. The shelter manager showed me around and introduced me to various animals needing care, from playful puppies to shy kittens. It was overwhelming, but I quickly realized how much love and attention these animals needed.

Details
That day, I was assigned to help walk the dogs and clean their pens. As I took my first dog, a scruffy little terrier named Max, outside for a walk, I felt a wave of joy wash over me. Max was so happy to be out, wagging his tail and sniffing every spot along the path. It was in that moment I realized how a little kindness could transform someone's day—even for a dog.


Body Topic Sentence (Middle)
As I continued volunteering over the summer, I grew to understand the deeper struggles these animals faced and how my efforts contributed to their well-being.

Details
I learned that many of the animals had been abandoned or abused, and it broke my heart to see how frightened they were. There was a sweet golden retriever named Bella who wouldn't leave her corner for days. It took patience, but with each visit, I would sit nearby, talking softly to her. Eventually, she started to approach me, and that slow progress filled me with a sense of purpose. It taught me that healing takes time and that sometimes, you just need to show up for someone.

Details
Whenever new animals arrived at the shelter, I felt a rush of responsibility. I wanted to help them all, even if it meant volunteering more hours than I had planned. Each time an animal found a forever home, I felt a mixture of joy and sadness. It was rewarding to know I played a small part in their journey, and I often thought about how my kindness might give them the chance they deserved.


Reflection/Conclusion (End)
Reflecting on my time at the shelter, I realize that volunteering was about more than just caring for animals; it taught me about the power of empathy and responsibility.

Details
This experience deeply influenced my perspective on life and my future goals. I now aspire to become a veterinarian, where I can continue to help animals and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. The lessons I learned at the animal shelter about compassion and making a difference in the lives of others will stay with me forever. This scholarship would support my dream of pursuing veterinary medicine and furthering my commitment to serving both animals and the community. Volunteering at the shelter was a small step that sparked a lifelong passion for helping those in need.