Essay Assignment: An Experience That Influenced a Belief

Reflect on an experience that provided exceptional clarity and that had an important influence on a belief that you hold. The experience may have helped form your belief, changed, or strengthened it. What was the experience's value for you? How has it influenced your life? Write an essay that focuses on this rich and illustrative incident. Make sure to provide details. You should explain your belief, and describe the experience, reflecting on what happened as you tell of its effects.

This form of writing acts as a catalyst for self-discovery by encouraging you to reflect on your past experiences. Your primary purpose is to make clear to your readers what your belief is and to narrate your experience in an interesting way. A second purpose is to stimulate your own increased understanding of this belief.

3 pages, typed, double-spaced.