3. Final Essay
As your final exam you will reflect on one of the two following topics and write an essay:
OPTION 1: ONE STUDENT’S STORY
In this essay, you will relate the story of how you used a specific On Course strategy to overcome an obstacle to your success in college or in life. Use the “One Student’s Story” essays in our textbook as models of how to write your story. If your essay is done well, your instructor may submit it to the On-Course Essay Contest. Winning entries will be published in the next edition of the On-Course text to inspire future students. Winning entries will also be awarded a $100 prize. Full directions for writing this essay can be found at oncourseworkshop.com/course-textbook/essay-contest.
An “A” paper will . . .
1. Explain a specific obstacle the writer faced.
2. Describe the specific On Course strategy used to overcome the specific obstacle.
3. Present the outcome of using the specific On Course strategy to overcome the specific obstacle the writer faced.
4. Show a commitment to excellence in preparation, including professional appearance and a command of academic English.
OPTION 2: PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY OF SUCCESS ESSAY
In this essay, you will present your own Personal Philosophy of Success, identifying the On Course success principles and strategies that you will use for years to come. This essay is your opportunity to write the script that will keep you on course to a rich, personally fulfilling life!
An “A” paper will . . .
1. Offer the writer’s personal definition of success.
2. Demonstrate the writer’s careful consideration of three or more On Course success principles and strategies that he or she will use to achieve success.
3. Contain extensive and specific support (examples, experiences, evidence, and explanation) for each strategy.
4. Show a commitment to excellence in preparation, including professional appearance and a command of academic English.