In this 500-word essay, you will reflect upon the ways that social, political, and cultural developments have an impact upon you and your actions.

Your essay may be about how the economy has changed your work, how technology has had an impact on your career pursuits, why you decided to pursue your degree, or other factors. Consider the cultural expectations from co-workers, friends and family, and your response to these expectations. You are not limited to this list, but may think of any external force and your internal action and personal response.

Author Seth Godin gives a definition of art that goes beyond the first impression of someone who paints, draws or makes music. In fact, you can engage in art whenever you aim to make a difference and share your potential. Thus, you can be an artist in customer service, manual labor, helping professions, or law enforcement. "An artist is someone who uses bravery, insight, creativity, and boldness to challenge the status quo. An artist takes it personally...Art is a personal gift that changes the recipient. The medium does not matter. The intent does. Art is a personal act of courage, something one human does that creates change in another (Godin, p. 83-84)." On this definition, your artistic expression may be pursuing your education, volunteering in your community, mentoring young people, or being the best parent you can be. The possibilities are broad.

You should open with an introduction that gives the scope for your essay, a preview of your main points, and a thesis. You will answer the following questions.

Define one external factor that you believe has an influence on you. Introduce it and explain what it is and why you believe it is a good choice for investigation.

Write about the impact of this external factor. Assess how you may have had to change to adapt, or how you have taken action in the face of external change.

In Godin's definition, art is about caring, creating change, and acting courageously. How might you do this in the future? Social, cultural, and political forces may cause you to change, but how have you been able to create a change that you direct?

The paper should conclude with a substantive and meaningful conclusion that restates the thesis and main points. You are welcome to write this paper in first person, since you are writing from your own impressions and experience.

Reference:

Godin, Seth. (2010) Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? New York, New York: Penguin Group.