Thread: Anecdotal failure

First off, hi! I'm new here, and though I read the rules thoroughly, I'm not yet familiar with this forum's culture, so forgive me if I break any unwritten rules.

I'm also not certain this is the correct category for my topic, but it seemed to be the closest.

I'm working on a personal statement/essay for a transfer application between colleges. The essay is supposed to convey why I intend to transfer, what my objectives are, and what I think I would gain from being accepted by the reviewing schools (I'm using the common application -- multiple schools view the same content).
I'm trying to use an anecdote at the beginning to catch the eye, be moving, and tie into my subject, but I can't think of any good anecdotes that would have any bearing on the subject of college goals.

Obviously you don't know my individual life's stories, but generally speaking, what sort of subjects would you suggest focusing on, and how would I best implement them?

Thanks very much.

The best probably would be telling of some event or person who influenced you in the direction you have chosen for your life. I'm fond of telling stories of how my maternal grandfather turned me toward writing at a very early age. Think of who or what it was in your childhood that has continued to influence your choices.

The best implementation is a simple telling of the story without adornment.

I notice you live 42 light years from Earth. Isn't that a bit inconvenient for commuting?

That sounds practicable, thanks; I'll try that.

Yes, it's pretty far, but I telecommute. You wouldn't believe the internet lag time.

I think starting with an anecdote is a brilliant idea.

At the risk of stating the obvious, the trick I find with these statements is to put myself in the shoes of the recipient and consider what they would most want to hear about me - what would reassure them that I should be allowed to transfer, what would allay any concerns they might have. Just focus on their perspective.

I would then try to find an anecdote that conveyed one of those points, preferably something humorous. Needless to say the anecdote also needs to be clear and concise.

You sound to me as though you know what you're doing, but I hope this has been of some help.