Tell us about your educational history, work experience, present situation, and plans for the future. Please make sure to address why you consider yourself a nontraditional student and have chosen to pursue your education at the School of General Studies of Columbia University. Successful essays should not only identify and describe specific elements of the program, academic or otherwise, that meet your needs as a nontraditional student, but should also explain why GS is the place for you

QUESTION

Tell us about your educational history, work experience, present situation, and plans for the future. Please make sure to address why you consider yourself a nontraditional student and have chosen to pursue your education at the School of General Studies of Columbia University. Successful essays should not only identify and describe specific elements of the program, academic or otherwise, that meet your needs as a nontraditional student, but should also explain why GS is the place for you

I want to write this paper for myself, but I am currently deployed in Florida with the National Guard because of the Corona Virus. I have a deadline that needs to be made, and I cannot finish before then, so I am just looking for the framework of a fantastic essay. The final essay should be between 1500-2000 words, so I left enough room to add what I need after the paper is received since I am the only one who has lived my life. I can provide a lot of detail that will help with this paper; I am currently Infantry in the Army. I failed out of college after high school then decided I needed to change my life. I lost both my grandparents that year, both of which I lived with and took care of me, leading to my problems in college. I have always suffered from ADD and my grandmother passed away from Multiple Sclerosis. My grandfather that year also died from Lung cancer, and form that point on, I decided I would become a doctor no matter the cost so that I can help people. I decided on Neurology because of my ADD and my grandmother’s M.S. I needed a way to pay for college, and I wanted a challenge that would also improve my discipline and life, so I joined the army. I didn’t want to be like everyone else, so I went after and became a Scout sniper. I have had many failures in life, but I now realize my passion for helping people will not let me fail, and now because of that passion. My love to help people, my desire always to improve myself physically and mentally, and become the most disciplined person I can. After failing, I now have the life experience to become every bit of what the Colombia G.s Program is looking for.

I had to write this information quickly but any information that is needed, I can be reached by my email or phone number. I want to sound very confident in this essay as well as not being afraid to admit my failures and how strong I have become because of them. Thank you!

ANSWER

Embracing Challenges and Pursuing Excellence: My Journey to Columbia University’s School of General Studies

Introduction

Education is a transformative journey that empowers individuals to realize their full potential and make a lasting impact on the world. As a nontraditional student, my educational history and life experiences have shaped me into the determined and resilient individual I am today. In this essay, I will recount my personal journey, highlight my work experiences, discuss my present situation, and outline my plans for the future. Furthermore, I will elucidate why I consider myself a nontraditional student and why I have chosen to pursue my education at the prestigious School of General Studies (GS) of Columbia University.

Personal Journey

My educational path has been unconventional, marked by challenges and significant personal losses. After high school, I embarked on a college journey that ended in failure. However, this setback served as a turning point, prompting me to reassess my life’s direction and redefine my goals. The profound impact of losing both my grandparents, who had been my pillars of support, led me to recognize the importance of finding purpose and making a difference in the lives of others.

Passion for Neurology and Helping Others

My grandmother’s battle with Multiple Sclerosis and my own struggles with attention deficit disorder (ADD) fostered my determination to pursue a career in neurology. I realized that by becoming a doctor, I could contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge, improve the lives of individuals living with neurological conditions, and inspire hope in those facing similar challenges (Guest et al., 2006). This unwavering passion has fueled my drive to overcome obstacles and achieve academic excellence.

Work Experience and Military Service

To support my educational aspirations, I made the bold decision to join the Army. I sought a transformative experience that would enhance my discipline, fortify my character, and cultivate a sense of purpose. Opting for a nontraditional military path, I became an Infantry Scout Sniper, driven by the desire to challenge myself both physically and mentally (Solomon et al., 2021). Through military service, I have learned the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and teamwork. These qualities have not only shaped me as an individual but have also instilled in me an unwavering commitment to serve others and make a positive impact in the world.

The School of General Studies and Its Alignment with My Needs

The School of General Studies at Columbia University presents itself as an ideal academic institution for nontraditional students like myself. Its commitment to providing an exceptional education to individuals who have taken nontraditional paths sets it apart. The unique combination of rigorous academic programs, experienced faculty, and a diverse student body inspires me. The opportunity to engage with fellow nontraditional students who share a similar drive for success and possess a wealth of life experiences will foster an enriching and collaborative learning environment.

The GS program’s flexibility and support system also address the challenges faced by nontraditional students. With my military commitments and the need for a personalized academic approach, GS’s comprehensive resources, including academic advising, mentorship programs, and career services, will ensure my success (Chovanec, 2014). Additionally, the school’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for personal growth aligns perfectly with my aspirations.

Conclusion

Setbacks, losses, and unwavering determination have characterized my educational journey. Through personal hardships, military service, and an unwavering passion for helping others, I have developed a unique perspective and a drive for excellence. Columbia University’s School of General Studies offers a transformative platform that caters specifically to nontraditional students like me, providing the tools, support, and resources needed to succeed. By embracing this opportunity, I am confident that I will excel academically and continue to grow as a compassionate and dedicated individual ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of neurology and beyond.

References

Chovanec, D. (2014). A Legacy of Women’s Activism: Intergenerational Learning in the Chilean Student Movement. Ualberta. https://www.academia.edu/2019434/A_Legacy_of_Womens_Activism_Intergenerational_Learning_in_the_Chilean_Student_Movement 

Guest, G., Bunce, A., & Johnson, L. (2006). How Many Interviews Are Enough? Field Methods, 18(1), 59–82. https://doi.org/10.1177/1525822×05279903 

Solomon, A. J., Kaisey, M., Krieger, S., Chahin, S., Naismith, R. T., Weinstein, S. M., Shinohara, R. T., & Weinshenker, B. G. (2021). Multiple sclerosis diagnosis: Knowledge gaps and opportunities for educational intervention in neurologists in the United States. Multiple Sclerosis Journal, 28(8), 1248–1256. https://doi.org/10.1177/13524585211048401