how i spent my new year holiday essay

Short Paragraph on How I Celebrated My New Year (360 Words)

Here is your short paragraph on How I Celebrated My New Year !

New Year is something that we all look forward to. It marks the beginning of a year and the end to another year.

Everybody looks forward to begin a new year with great fun and enjoyment and wish that the year ahead brings them in, all goods. I too celebrate this great day with all the blast that I can.

Two days before the New Year, we start our preparations. We clean our house, get things in order, buy crackers and get them ready and we look forward to the great day. On New Year’s Eve is when we enjoy the maximum. From morning, we kids would be busy packing up gifts and planning pranks that could be played when the clock strikes 12.00 at night.

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So much of fun is involved that we totally forget the passing time. Some years, friends and relatives stop by and we all join together to make it even more great. By evening, everybody is in full spirits and would be out. We sometimes go for partying and enjoy a great deal over there. As time passes by everybody starts getting excited.

When it is almost past 10.00 pm, the crowd enjoys and there are live telecast in the televisions to the celebration that takes place across the world. Each place would have a difference in their timings and accordingly the New Year would dawn. When it reaches almost midnight, the entire family would be out, bursting crackers, wishing each other and enjoying and welcoming the New Year. Churches would conduct midnight masses and most of the people would be attending masses to welcome a blessed and happy new year.

Once the year is welcome, the fun does not stop. In most of the countries New Year is marked as a holiday. People enjoy the entire day, taking rest and welcoming the year with all high spirits and enjoyment. Get together with friends and family makes it a lot more exciting and fun. Everybody hopes and wishes that the year ahead would give them peace, harmony, happiness and wealth, not only for them but to mankind across the globe.

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Narrative Essay on How I spent my holiday

Holidays hold a special place in everyone’s life, offering a respite from the routine of daily tasks and providing an opportunity to explore, relax, and create unforgettable memories. This year, I decided to spend my holiday in a way that was both enriching and exhilarating. I ventured on a journey to a small coastal town, renowned for its pristine beaches, rich culture, and vibrant local life. This narrative essay unfolds the experiences, discoveries, and personal growth I encountered during my holiday.

The Journey Begins

My adventure commenced with the excitement of traveling to a place I had never visited before. The anticipation built up as I packed my bags, ensuring I had everything needed for a week of exploration. The journey to the coastal town was a scenic delight, with winding roads flanked by lush greenery and the occasional glimpse of the ocean’s horizon promising a serene escape.

Exploring the Coastal Town

Upon arrival, the beauty of the town exceeded my expectations. The air was filled with the salty breeze of the sea and the streets buzzed with the energy of daily life. My first day was spent wandering through the town, taking in the sights and sounds. I visited local markets, where I marveled at the craftsmanship of the artisans and indulged in the town’s culinary delights, tasting dishes that were a fusion of traditional recipes and the bounty of the sea.

The Heart of Nature

The following days were dedicated to exploring the natural wonders surrounding the town. I embarked on hikes through nearby trails, each revealing breathtaking views of the landscape. The highlight was a trek to a secluded beach, accessible only by a narrow path through the cliffs. The effort was rewarded with a serene beach, untouched by the hustle and bustle of tourist spots. Here, I spent hours swimming in the clear waters, reading under the shade of palm trees, and reflecting on the simple pleasures of life.

Cultural Immersion

My holiday was not just about relaxation but also about immersing myself in the local culture. I attended a traditional dance performance, where the rhythmic beats and expressive movements of the dancers told stories of the town’s history and folklore. I also participated in a cooking class, learning to prepare local dishes that combined fresh seafood with exotic spices, gaining not only culinary skills but also insights into the lifestyle and traditions of the people.

The Bond of Friendship

One of the most unexpected and rewarding aspects of my holiday was the friendships I formed. Whether it was conversations with local residents, sharing stories with fellow travelers, or the camaraderie with the host of my accommodation, these connections added depth to my experience. Through these interactions, I gained a richer understanding of the world from different perspectives, reminding me of the value of openness and the universal language of kindness.

Reflections and Realizations

As my holiday drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the journey. Beyond the relaxation and enjoyment, it was a period of personal growth and learning. I had stepped out of my comfort zone, challenged myself to try new things, and embraced the unfamiliar. This holiday taught me the importance of slowing down, appreciating the moment, and the joy of discovering new places and cultures.

My holiday in the coastal town was more than just a break from routine; it was a journey of discovery, connection, and personal growth. It reminded me of the beauty of our world, the diversity of its people, and the shared experiences that bind us. As I returned home, I brought back not only souvenirs and photographs but memories that will last a lifetime and a renewed sense of adventure, ready to explore what lies beyond the horizon.

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Essays About New Year: 5 Examples and Prompts

The new year marks a new beginning for everyone. If you are writing essays about new year, you can start by reading some essay examples. 

On new year’s day, everything resets. The calendar returns to January, the year’s first month, and the year starts anew. In the same way, most people see the start of a new year as the start of something better for themselves.

They want to improve themselves in specific ways by picking up good traits, being kinder, and trying to get out of bad habits and mannerisms; they set new year’s resolutions to attempt to break these habits. New year’s eve and new year’s day are undoubtedly some of the most important days of the year.

If you are writing an essay about new year, start by reading these examples. 

Are you looking for more? Check out our guide packed full of transition words for essays

1. The New Year: A Time for Reflection and a Time to Move Forward by Susanne Carlson

2. my new year’s resolution by francisco sáez, 3. my lonely new year’s eve party will consist of sadness, hope, and life-changing gratitude by dawn bevier, 4. the psychology of new years eve reflection by ben farrell, 5. why is new year’s eve so depressing by leila ettachfini, 1. what is the importance of new year’s resolutions, 2. different new year celebrations, 3. is new year a new beginning, 4. why some people find new year’s celebrations depressing, 5. are new year’s resolutions a waste of time.

“With reflection and attention to positive change, taking note of what we have learned on our journey up until now, can give us the opportunity to apply it to the future, to take with us what is helpful and to leave behind what is not.”

Carlson writes about the importance of reflection and learning from one’s mistakes for the new year ahead. She sees the new year as a time for new beginnings; she wants it to be the start of positive change for others, just as it has been for her. Reflection is essential, as it allows us to see what we can improve on and do better in the coming year. 

“According to Goleman, the link between attention and excellence is behind almost all our achievements. Attention is needed not only to understand, learn or remember, but also to read the emotions of others, generate empathy and build good relationships. It is an asset that, despite being little known and despised, has great relevance in how we face life.”

Sáez briefly explains his new year’s resolution: to be more attentive. He wants to improve his attention and focus on forming better relationships with others, healthily using technology, and better his mental health. By reading the book Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence , he hopes to hone his attention for the new year and do better in the future. You might also be interested in these essays about celebration .

“And yes, I know this pandemic is not done with its destruction, but I also know we’re fighting back like hell and making progress. And that long-awaited day of celebration is now coming sooner rather than later. And when that day comes, I can’t help but believe that the world will be a better place. I know I will be a better person and millions of you will be as well.”

In this solemn piece, Bevier laments new year’s celebrations during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed millions. She is sad for those she has lost and the loss of the pre-pandemic life she loved. However, she hopes the next new year will not be like the last, and she has learned to be grateful for the more minor things in life. The pandemic has taught her a lot, but most importantly, to be optimistic for the future and to look ahead to the new year with hope, kindness, and gratitude. 

“In reality, new years eve is no different to any other night of the year yet; we can’t help but assign some special meaning to the 31st of December. The psychological significance of the night can be a good thing, but it can also create tremendous anxiety for us.”

Farrell explains the psychological pressure of New Year’s Eve. This one night is no different from any other, but since it is the last one of the year, people feel the need to reflect not only on the day but the entire year. The imagery of big parties and “new beginnings” further add to the pressure, as people feel the need to have the “picture-perfect” new year. He says that while it can be helpful to use the beginning of the year as the start of positive change, it is more important to learn from one’s mistakes, no matter what time of the year. 

“‘Anytime you let social convention dictate what you do rather than doing what feels best for you, you run the risk of anxiety, depression, and so on,’ says Dr. Kubiak. New Year’s Eve leaves this group with a tough choice: go out even though you really don’t want to or deal with the uncomfortable task of telling your friends that you’re going to sit this one out.”

Ettachfini explains new year’s eve from the perspective of those who get anxious or depressed during this time. Failure during the year, social anxiety, and the feeling of having to say goodbye to the year are all contributing factors. She cites information from Dr. Larry Kubiak, who says that depression and anxiety are normal, but it is essential to talk about them with a loved one to prevent their consuming of your life. 

Top 5 Prompts on Essays about New Year

What is the importance of setting a new year’s resolution? In this essay, explore why people create new year resolutions and what a resolution aims to achieve. You can include your reasoning, interview others, or use online sources. Perhaps you can argue whether new years resolutions are helpful or not in achieving goals. Think about the resolutions you have set, and whether or not it has helped you achieve a goal. 

Different cultures and religions celebrate the new year differently, sometimes even having different dates. Write about how the new year is celebrated in different parts of the world, including dates, activities, and any local traditions. Use research to support your findings, this can be found in history books, interviews, statistical data or news articles online. 

Many think of the new year as a “rebirth” of some sort; however, it can be argued that the new year would be better used as an instrument of continuity, particularly that of the good things that happened in the previous year. You might also be interested in these essays about Christmas .

Some see new year as something to be sad about. In your essay, you can discuss the darker side of new year and write about anxiety and depression during this time, similar to Ettachfini’s essay. In your essay, include the reasons for, behaviors displayed, and possible remedies to sadness during the new year’s holidays.

Some say that it is unrealistic to make new year’s resolutions. Discuss if you believe new year’s resolutions are a waste of time or not. Create a compelling argumentative essay by stating your position and providing research, statistics, or interview data to back up your arguments.

For help with this topic, read our guide explaining what is persuasive writing ?

Martin is an avid writer specializing in editing and proofreading. He also enjoys literary analysis and writing about food and travel.

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How to Write an Essay on How You Spent Your Summer Vacation

Last Updated: January 4, 2020

This article was co-authored by Alexander Peterman, MA . Alexander Peterman is a Private Tutor in Florida. He received his MA in Education from the University of Florida in 2017. This article has been viewed 53,325 times.

Writing an essay on how you spent your summer vacation is a classic way of starting a new school year. Think about this essay as an opportunity to tell a story about your summer while reflecting on the experiences you had. Choose a memorable moment you had this summer and start crafting your essay, giving as many details as possible.

Choosing a Topic

• These can also make nice visual aids if you are asked to present your essay.

• A list might be full of things like babysitting, attending a camp, working at a local store, taking a road trip, etc. This type of brainstorming can help you pick major events and other important moments from your summer.

• For example, maybe you spent your summer traveling around Japan. Think of a memorable moment you had while traveling — maybe you walked up a mountain in the pouring rain — and write about this moment, adding lots of details.

• For example, if you're writing about spending time at the beach, your outline could remind you to talk about the sandcastle building contest you entered, the dolphins you saw, and the ice cream you ate every day.
• Details might be what the other sandcastles looked like, how far away the dolphins were, and what kind of toppings were on your ice cream.
• Your outline is just to help you organize your thoughts — it can be written by hand or typed.

Crafting the Essay

• Instead of saying that you worked in a pet store, ate a PB&J sandwich, and walked home every day, talk about more than just your actions. You could talk about which pets are your favorites to work with, how it felt to eat the same sandwich every day, or what you thought about on your walk home.

• Using sensory details like these will help your readers visualize and engage with your writing. These help your audience make your experiences feel real to them, even though they weren't there.

• For example, instead of saying “I went to the beach this summer,” try saying “I spent my summer swimming in the frigid water at Virginia Beach.” The more details you can provide, the more engaged your reader will be.

• Instead of saying “the burger was really good,” you could say, “the burger was juicy and filling.”

• Don't just rely on spellcheck. It will help catch some errors, but it will miss some things, too.
• Ask a parent or other adult to read over your essay too, if you'd like.
• Setting your essay aside for a little while will give you a fresher perspective when you go back to revise it.

Structuring Your Essay

• Make sure your conclusion doesn’t just copy the introduction.

Community Q&A

• Write your essay from the first person point of view, using "I." Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1

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About This Article

If you need to write an essay on how you spent your summer vacation, there are simple ways to take your writing to the next level. Choose a moment that stands out to you, like playing at the park with your friends or watching a movie you enjoyed. Think about all the feelings and thoughts you had, and use them to write sensory descriptions that will take the reader on the journey with you. Use your introduction to set the scene and draw your reader in. Then, use each paragraph to explore different aspects of your favorite moment. For example, if you won a video game competition with your friends, you can talk about the rivalry between you, the rounds of the game, and how you celebrated. For more tips from our Education co-author, including how to edit your essay, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Tips for Writing a "What I Did on Vacation" Essay

• Writing Essays
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• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Are you required to write an essay about your summer vacation or your holiday break? This can be a tough assignment to tackle at first glance. But if you think about it, there are lots of interesting things that happen on your vacation that others might enjoy reading about. The key to success is to zero in on the experiences, people, or situations that made your vacation unique.

Summer vacation can be busy or lazy, funny or serious. You may have traveled with your family, worked every day, fallen in love, or coped with a difficult situation. To start your essay, you'll need to choose a topic and tone.

Family Vacation Essay Topic Ideas

If you traveled with your family, you may have some great stories to tell. After all, every family is crazy in its own way. Want some proof? How many Hollywood films have themes about family holidays or trips? Those films are popular because they enable us to glimpse inside the crazy family lives of others. Alternatively, you may have a more serious story to tell.

Consider these funny topics:

• Why I'll Never Go Back to (insert place name)
• How (insert name) Drove Me Crazy in Five Days
• Traveling to (insert city) Then and Now
• The Hazards of Traveling With a (person or thing)
• Why You Shouldn't Take a Dog to (insert place)
• I Left (insert city) But My (lost item) Stayed
• Why I Couldn't Sleep in (place name)

If your family vacation involved something more serious, think about one of these topics:

• The Love I Left Behind in (insert place)
• Saying Good-Bye to (insert person or place)
• Exploring (place's) Secrets
• An Emotional Trip

Summer Job Essay Topic Ideas

Not everyone gets to spend the summer having fun; some of us have to work for a living. If you spent your summer at a job, chances are you met a lot of interesting characters, dealt with complicated situations, or even saved the day once or twice. Here are some ideas for summer job topics:

• The Boss's Day Off
• The Customer From Hell
• What I Learned from My Customers
• Why I'll Never Go Into the ___ Business
• Six Things I Learned on the Job

How to Write the Essay

Once you've chosen your topic and your tone, think about the story you want to tell. In most cases, your essay will follow a typical story arc:

• The hook (the funny, sad, or scary sentence that grabs the reader's attention)
• The rising action (the beginning of your story)
• The climax (the most exciting moment in your story)
• The denouement (the aftermath or ending to your story)

Start by writing out the basic outline of your story. For example, "I started cleaning a guest's room and found that they'd left behind a wallet with $100 in cash. When I turned it in without taking a single dollar for myself, my boss rewarded me with a $100 gift certificate and a special award for honesty."

Next, start fleshing out the details. What was the room like? What was the guest like? What did the wallet look like and where was it left? Were you tempted to just take the money and turn in the wallet empty? How did your boss look when you handed her the wallet? How did you feel when you got your reward? How did others around you react to your honesty?

Once you've told your story in all its detail, it's time to write the hook and conclusion. What question or thought can you use to grab your reader's attention? For example: "What would you do if you found a wallet loaded with cash? That was my dilemma this summer."

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My New Year Day Essay – Check the 100 Words, Short and Long Essay here!

My New Year Day Essay: The new year is a time of hope, renewal, and fresh starts. It’s a time to reflect on the past year and all that has happened, both the good and the bad. It’s also a time to look forward and set new goals, both personal and professional. As the new year begins, it’s a chance to start anew and to make positive changes in our lives. It’s a time to let go of the past and embrace the present, focus on the things that truly matter, and let go of those that don’t.

A new calendar year officially starts on January 1. On January 1st (New Year’s Day), the New Year is formally ushered in. The first day of the year, according to the Gregorian calendar, is January 1. People begin organizing their festivities and resolutions around the beginning of the year. Independent of caste or tradition, the New Year provides joy and happiness, just like many other holidays do. Keep reading the article and find “my new year day essay” right here!

Table of Contents

Short Essay on my New Year Day

New Year’s Day is always a special time for me. It’s a day of reflection, renewal, and fresh starts. I love looking back on the past year and taking stock of all that has happened, both the good and the bad. It’s also a time to look forward and set new goals, both personal and professional.

One of my favorite traditions on New Year’s Day is making resolutions. I love taking the time to think about the things I want to change in my life and making a commitment to make those changes happen. It’s a time to focus on self-improvement and strive to be the best version of myself.

I also love spending New Year’s Day with my family and friends. We usually spend the day cooking, eating, and watching movies together. It’s a time to relax, recharge, and enjoy each other’s company.

In short, New Year’s Day is a special day that marks the beginning of a new year and a new chapter in my life. It’s a time to reflect, renew, and make positive changes. Here’s to a happy and healthy new year, filled with love, laughter, and all of my heart’s desires.

200 Word My New Year Day Essay

My New Year’s Day was filled with excitement and joy. I woke up early in the morning, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after a good night’s sleep. The first thing I did was to wish my family and friends a happy new year. I then set out to make the most of the day by making a list of all the things I wanted to accomplish.

One of the things on my list was to take a walk in the park. The weather was perfect, with clear blue skies and a gentle breeze. I spent the morning strolling through the park, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. It was a great way to start the year, as it allowed me to clear my mind and set my intentions for the coming year.

Another thing on my list was to spend time with my loved ones. I spent the afternoon with my family, enjoying a delicious meal and catching up on all the happenings of the past year. We also made plans for the coming year, discussing our hopes and dreams for the future.

As the day came to a close, I reflected on all that had happened and all that was yet to come. I felt grateful for the love and support of my family and friends, and for the opportunity to start a new year filled with endless possibilities.

In conclusion, my New Year’s Day was filled with joy, gratitude, and a sense of hope for the future. It was a perfect way to start the new year, and I am excited to see what the coming months have in store.

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500 Word My New Year Day Essay

New Year’s Day is a time for celebration, reflection, and renewal. It marks the beginning of a new year, a fresh start, and an opportunity to set goals and make positive changes in our lives.

I always look forward to New Year’s Day because it gives me the chance to take a step back and reflect on the past year. It allows me to think about the things that went well, the things that didn’t go as planned, and the things I want to change or improve in the coming year.

This year, my New Year’s Day was particularly special because I was able to spend it with my loved ones. I woke up early in the morning, feeling rested and ready to tackle the day. The first thing I did was to wish my family and friends a happy new year. We then gathered around the breakfast table and enjoyed a delicious meal together. It was a great way to start the day, as it allowed us to connect and catch up on all the happenings of the past year.

After breakfast, I set out to accomplish some of the things on my list. One of the things on my list was to take a hike in the nearby mountains. The weather was perfect for a hike, with clear blue skies and a gentle breeze. I spent the morning walking through the woods, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. It was a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, and it helped me to clear my mind and set my intentions for the coming year.

Another thing on my list was to spend time with my friends. In the afternoon, I met up with some friends at a local park. We played sports, caught up on all the happenings of the past year, and made plans for the coming year. It was a fun and enjoyable way to spend the day, and it was great to connect with old friends.

I believe that New Year’s Day is a special time to set intentions and make positive changes in our lives. It is a time to let go of the past and embrace the future with hope and optimism. Whether it’s resolving to exercise more, eat healthier, or spend more time with loved ones, there are countless ways to make the most of the new year. So let’s make the most of it, and have a happy and successful new year!

FAQs on My New Year Day Essay

New Year’s Day is celebrated on January 1st of every year.

New Year’s Day is the first day of the year, marking the start of a new year. It is a public holiday in many countries around the world, and is typically celebrated with parties, fireworks, and other festive activities.

New Year’s Day is typically celebrated with parties, fireworks, and other festive activities. People may also make resolutions for the new year, such as promising to exercise more, eat healthier, or spend more time with loved ones.

New Year’s Day has been celebrated for thousands of years. The ancient Romans and Egyptians are among the first recorded civilizations to have celebrated the start of a new year. Today, New Year’s Day is celebrated around the world and is a public holiday in many countries.

Some common traditions associated with New Year’s Day include making resolutions, attending parties and events, and watching fireworks displays. In some countries, people also participate in parades and other public celebrations.

By Gauri Malik

Related post, village fair essay in english – explore the 100 word 200 word and long essay samples here, essay on yoga day in english – explore the 100 word, 200 word and long essays here, 10 lines on how i spent my holidays – check 10 lines essay for children, leave a reply.

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Exploring the geographical marvels and hill stations of maharashtra, यूपीएससी जीएस पेपर 4 पाठ्यक्रम के मुख्य पहलुओं का अनावरण, आईएएस मुख्य पाठ्यक्रम हिंदी में और यूपीएससी जीएस 3 पाठ्यक्रम हिंदी में जानें.

Letter Writing: Describing How You Spent Your Winter Holiday

A couple of examples to help you with your letter writing describing how you spent your winter holiday.

Table of Contents

Winter holidays are always a special time of the year, a time to relax and unwind from the busy schedules of the year. It is a time to make memories and enjoy the company of loved ones. In this letter, I will describe how I spent my winter holiday.

I spent the first few days of my winter holiday visiting family and friends. I traveled to my hometown to spend time with my parents, siblings, and extended family. We had a great time catching up on old times, sharing stories, and enjoying delicious meals together. I also visited some close friends who live nearby, and we had a great time reminiscing about old times and making new memories.

Winter is a great time to engage in outdoor activities, and I made sure to make the most of it. I went skiing with some friends and had an amazing time on the slopes. We also went ice skating, which was a little challenging at first, but after a few falls, we got the hang of it. I also went for long walks in the park, enjoying the beautiful winter scenery and breathing in the fresh, crisp air.

Winter is also a great time to enjoy cozy indoor activities, and I indulged in a few of my favorites. I spent some time reading my favorite books while sipping on hot cocoa, and I also binge-watched some of my favorite TV shows. I also spent some time baking, trying out new recipes, and enjoying the delicious treats with family and friends.

In conclusion, my winter holiday was a perfect blend of spending time with loved ones, engaging in outdoor activities, and enjoying cozy indoor activities. It was a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and I am grateful for the memories and experiences that I made during this special time.

Winter holidays are always a special time of the year when we get to unwind and create wonderful memories with our loved ones. In this letter, I will describe how I spent my winter holiday in the mountains.

The first part of my winter holiday was spent skiing in the mountains. The snow was perfect, and the slopes were challenging yet fun. I enjoyed the beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains as I glided down the slopes. It was a great workout, and I felt energized and refreshed after each session.

During my stay in the mountains, I also had the opportunity to explore the local town and try new foods. The town was quaint, and the locals were friendly. I tasted delicious local cuisine, such as traditional hotpot and dumplings. I also visited local markets and shops, where I bought unique souvenirs to take back home.

Finally, I spent some quality time relaxing by the fireplace with my family and friends. We played board games, watched movies, and shared stories. It was a great way to unwind and bond with each other. The warmth of the fireplace and the sound of the crackling wood made the experience even more memorable.

In conclusion, I had an amazing winter holiday in the mountains. Skiing, exploring the local town, and relaxing by the fireplace with my loved ones were all highlights of my trip. I will cherish these memories for years to come.

Winter holidays are a much-awaited time of the year, a time to unwind and create some unforgettable memories. In this essay, I will describe how I spent my winter holiday by visiting family and friends, exploring new places and activities, and relaxing and enjoying downtime.

The first thing I did during my winter holiday was to visit my family and friends. I spent quality time with my parents, grandparents, and siblings, catching up on all the things that had happened since we last met. We had a lovely time together, sharing meals, playing games, and exchanging gifts. I also met up with my old friends from school and college, reminiscing about the good old days and creating new memories.

Apart from spending time with family and friends, I also explored new places and activities during my winter holiday. I went on a skiing trip with some of my friends, which was an exhilarating experience. We glided down the slopes, feeling the cold wind on our faces and taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains. I also visited a nearby town, where I tried some local cuisine and shopped for souvenirs. It was fascinating to learn about the town’s history and culture.

Finally, I spent some time relaxing and enjoying my downtime during my winter holiday. I caught up on my reading, watched some of my favorite movies and TV shows, and listened to music. I also took long walks in the park, enjoying the crisp winter air and the beauty of nature. It was a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

In conclusion, my winter holiday was a perfect blend of spending time with family and friends, exploring new places and activities, and relaxing and enjoying downtime. It was a memorable experience that I will cherish forever.

About Mr. Greg

Mr. Greg is an English teacher from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in Hong Kong. He has over 5 years teaching experience and recently completed his PGCE at the University of Essex Online. In 2013, he graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a BEng(Hons) in Computing, with a focus on social media.

Mr. Greg’s English Cloud was created in 2020 during the pandemic, aiming to provide students and parents with resources to help facilitate their learning at home.

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How I Spent my Last Holiday Essays 100, 150, 200, 450 Words

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Table of Contents

English Essay Writing or Composition on How I Spent My Last Holiday

There are many topics that you may be required to write an essay on in your English language classes. But writing an essay about how you spent your last holiday is one of the most enjoyable. The reason is because it brings back lovely memories as you thoughtfully reflect on your holiday experience and put them in writing.

As you write, your goal is to capture your readers’ attention and sustain their interest from the beginning of the essay till the end.

You can achieve this goal by:

• writing clear and simple sentences.
• using so, but, and, because and other transition words to ensure that your ideas flow smoothly throughout your essay.
• being as descriptive as possible by using adjectives that paint a vivid picture of what you are saying.
• being honest and authentic as you share your feelings about your experience.

I will give you a basic outline that you can develop into the compelling essay you have in mind.

Read Also: Best Importance of Education Essays for English Students

Basic Outline for Composing an Essay on “How I Spent My Last Holiday”

Here is a basic outline that will help you to write a good composition about how you spent your last holiday:

Introduction

You need to begin your essay with a catchy opening sentence that would grab your reader’s attention. Then quickly introduce the topic or purpose of your essay, and say where you went for the holiday and what you did.

Body Paragraphs

Just like you would do in the body of any other essay, divide your holiday experience into several key events or activities.

Then describe each event or activity in details in different paragraphs. Remember that, as much as possible, each paragraph should focus on a specific event or activity.

The number of paragraphs would depend on the number of words the essay is expected to cover.

Whatever the target word-count, ensure that your essay is vivid and engaging by using sensory details. It’s simple. Just describe what you saw, heard, smelled, tasted, and felt during each experience.

Then reflect on the significance or impact of each event or activity. How did it make you feel? What did you learn from it? Did it change your perspective on anything? And so on.

This is where you end your essay. A good conclusion would provide a brief summary of the key points of your essay, including the lessons you learned.

You can tell whether the holiday experience met your expectations, and how you feel about it even at the point of penning down your essay. Then state whether you plan to do anything in the future drawing inspiration from your holiday experience.

Read Also: Interesting All that Glitters is not Gold Stories

Sample How I Spent My Last Holiday Essays

The following are sample essays of different word counts on how I spent my last holiday. You can choose any composition that comes close to your own holiday experience and use it to craft yours.

My Relaxing Holiday 200 Words

My last holiday was amazing! I did not travel to any new or interesting location, but I had a lot of fun staying home. I took time to enjoy early morning sleep every day. This alone felt like a treat after waking up early for school the entire term.

In the afternoons, I went outside to play with my friends. We played the soccer ball around in the park, and would enjoy pretending to famous athletes.

Sometimes during the holiday, it would rain. And when that happened, I just stayed inside and got cozy. I got a good book and devoured it with a mug of hot chocolate by my side. I also liked watching funny movies with my family and munching on popcorn.

In some evenings, we had barbecues in the backyard. We grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, while Dad told us stories about when he was a kid. I don’t think that anything can feel more special than spending so much time together.

Although I did not travel anywhere, my holiday was full of fun and relaxation. I feel recharged and ready to go back to school now!

My Last Holiday Adventure 250 Words

Since I have been spending my holidays, none had been as enjoyable as the last one. When we vacated last term, I spent two weeks at home in order to assist my parents in farm work. After this, I left for Onitsha in order to visit some places of interest.

I visited the modern and popular Niger bridge which links Onitsha and Asaba, Mid-West. I also visited the famous Onitsha Main Market. It has no rival in comparison in West Africa just as Ibadan Liberty Stadium has no comparison in West Africa. When I was being taken round the great Onitsha Main Market by a friend, I observed that traders in their respective stalls felt at home. Some of them tuned in their radio sets. They were happy.

I spent one week at Onitsha and departed for Enugu. When I was at Enugu I visited the Eastern Nigeria Parliament, and I saw Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe’s Statue just close to the house of Assembly. I also visited Enugu Airport and several other places of interest. I spent five days in Enugu and departed for Lagos by a train. “Lagos Limited”, and that was my first time of entering train. When I reached Lagos, I hardly believed that it was a town in Nigeria. It was very beautiful indeed just like London.

When I was in Lagos, I went to the House of Representatives, the Senate, National Stadium, Air- port, Tinubu Square and other places of interest.

I spent 5 days in Lagos and returned home to resume School. I wrote a story on all my observations in the journey.

My Last Holiday Essay 300 Words

Last summer, I went on a trip that I will not easily forget. This is because it meant much more to me than just a vacation; rather, my perception was changed.

I had never been in Thailand before the holiday but only heard of its beauty. Finally visiting the country made my holiday worthwhile. The place was so different from home! Their market was busy with many colorful items for sale and their food was so delicious. I tried several new and amazing dishes, and they were all lovely. While in Thailand, I couldn’t fail to notice how beautiful their temples are with roofs gold plated and other carvings done wonderfully.

I am an outdoor kind of person. That is why spending time in nature during my holiday made me very happy. Some days I would hike through forests while others would find me relaxing at the beach. On one fine morning, I woke up early to witness sunrise over New Zealand’s mountains. It was simply breathtaking and that made me feel alive.

Lastly, to add some holiday fun into it; i did some daring activities too. For instance, skydiving and bungee jumping were included in my itinerary. Although at first scared, it turned out pretty awesome! I learned that it’s good to challenge yourself and try new things sometimes.

Looking back on my last holiday, I feel very grateful for all the experiences I had. I discovered a lot of new things and also made new friends. Yes, the holiday is over, but the memories I made will stay with me forever.

From the samples above, you can see that the key to writing a good essay about your holiday is to engage your readers with descriptive details and thoughtful reflections.

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Essay on Winter Vacation ✍️: Samples in 150, 250 Words

• Updated on  
• Jan 16, 2024

24th December marks the beginning of winter vacation for school students, which is a time of joy and celebration with friends and families. Winter vacation usually lasts for 2 to 3 weeks for elementary students, where they actively participate and vibe in Christmas and New Year shopping and celebrations. Students are excited about their Christmas presents, hoping Santa will gift them their favourite toys, such as racing cars, barbie dolls, gaming consoles, etc.

However, once the winter vacations are over and schools resume, you will have to write an essay on winter vacation as part of your academics, where you are required to share your experiences, how you spent your time, ways of celebration, what was there on your shopping lists or where did you go for a trip, etc. Today, we are delighted to present some sample essays on winter vacation which will provide students with different ideas.

Master the art of essay writing with our blog on How to Write an Essay in English .

Also Read: Essay on Peer Pressure: 100, 200 and 450 Word Samples in English

Essay on Winter Vacation in 150 Words

‘My winter vacation started right after Christmas, which was a two-week long vacation. Winter Vacation is my favourite time of the year, as we go New Year shopping, plan a trip to a hill station, and enjoy feasts like homemade cakes, cookies, pastries sweets, etc. On this winter vacation, I went to the city market to buy winter clothes with my parents. My father bought a denim jeans and a dungarees jacket for me, as were planning a trip to Mussoorie, the famous hill station.

Before me and my family left for our winter vacation trip, I completed all my winter homework and school assignments, so that I don’t have to worry about them after returning from our vacation. I took my brother’s help with mathematics homework and completed the remaining homework myself.

After that, we went on a 4-day family trip to Mussoorie, where we had quality time and played a lot. We were lucky enough to witness snowfall and my brother made a large snowman and snowballs and played for hours. Later, we went back to the hotel, where we had our tasty lunch and a bonfire. This was my this year’s winter vacation, which was full of excitement and surprises.’

Also Read: 10 Lines on Christmas Day for Students

Also Read: Essay on Winter Season

Also Read: Idioms for Winter

Essay on Winter Vacation in 300 Words

‘Winter and summer vacations are my favourite time of the year, as we are free from academic pressure and don’t have to worry about school for the next couple of weeks. This year, my winter vacation started with an exciting activity, as I attended a wedding with my family in a different city. It was a short un-planned family trip where we had a lot of fun. Me and sister were excited to dine out at a highway restaurant, which was one of the memorable moments of my winter vacation. On our way to the wedding, I and my sister requested our father to stop at a highway restaurant, as were hungry.

Me and my sister ate a pizza and ice cream. After finishing our food, we were back on our way to the wedding. We greeted all our relatives and some of them gave us gifts. After returning from the wedding, I and my sister wanted to work on extracurricular activities, so our father enrolled us in dance classes. For the next 10 days, we were continuously working on our dancing skills, which was physically exhausting but interesting. As soon as we hit the dance floor, all we could do was wave our hands in the air and vibe with the music.

Another fun activity I did during this winter vacation was helping my mother with household chores. Our family has a custom of making Gajar ka Halwa every winter. I wanted to learn from my mother how it is prepared and the ingredients she uses to make it. Gajar ka halwa is one of my favourite sweets. Eating Gajar ka Halwa on a chilled January morning is one of my loving memories. I wish I could enjoy I little more of those family moments, where there is no school pressure, just fun and love. Now, I will plan for next year’s winter vacations, where me and my family can have a great time together.’

Also Read: Objectives of Education Technology

Also Read: 10 Ways to Make Your Summer Break Productive

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Winter vacation is a relaxing holiday that happens from mid-December to January. Christmas and New Year are celebrated during the winter vacation. School students and children wait for these vacations for a year as they will get to enjoy 15-day holidays at home with their friends and family.

Winter vacations are the most awaited time of the year. Here is how I celebrated my Winter vacation: I decorated my house with fairy lights; My mother taught me to bake gingerbread for the gingerbread house; I and my father bought a Christmas tree; I along with my family and neighbours decorated a Christmas tree in my drawing room; We also wore Santa caps and enjoyed the winters wishing each other a Merry Christmas; My parents gave me a gift for Christmas. They had hidden the gift under my pillow to surprise me in the morning; I played badminton with my friends; My mother also taught me how to knit a sweater during this winter vacation; We burst crackers on 31 December at 12 in the night to celebrate the New Year; My New Year resolution is to stay self-motivated and work hard to do good in academics.

Winter vacation is the most happening time of the year associated with festivities. Everyone meets each other during Christmas and New Year and enjoys warm beverages to cope with the extreme cold weather. Some families also plan a short weekend at the hill station in winter vacation. Watching movies, sitting at home, enjoying sweets and cakes, and resting is the most appropriate things to do in winter vacation.

Now that you have read all the samples in essay on winter vacation listed above, you might have understood how you have to share your ideas on this topic. For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu .

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How I Spent My Summer Vacation Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on how i spent my summer vacation.

Summertime is the most awaited time of any student’s life . It gives them a break from the scorching sun and blazing heat. The summer months are quite hot, however, students love them because they bring a sense of calmness due to the vacations. It frees them from the monotonous and dull routine of school and studies.

Most importantly, summer vacations give us a chance to explore new things. We can adopt new hobbies like painting, dancing, singing and more during this time. Furthermore, it gives us a chance to visit our grandparents or to someplace abroad. Summer vacations bring all types of fun, however, these particular summer vacations were the most memorable for me. My parents made me join a summer camp which was too much fun and then we visited our grandparents’ place.

Summer Camp

As the first day of my summer vacations started, I started getting bored easily. Mostly so because all my friends had gone to someplace or the other. My parents noticed this and decided to send me to a summer camp. Our school itself was organizing one in which my parents got me enrolled.

At first, I thought it would be of no use and would be equally boring. However, to my surprise, I was wrong. The summer camp was one of the best experiences of my life. I got the chance to indulge in so many activities and in fact, it was the first time where I discovered my talent for painting.

We got up early in the morning at 7 o’clock, despite no school. We had trainers who would teach us different things each day. On the first day, I got to learn karate, which was very amusing and helpful. Further, I learned how to play sports like basketball , table tennis, and volleyball.

Finally, came my most awaited part. We were taught painting and unique tips to master this art. I learned it quickly and started enjoying painting. My passion for painting began from this summer camp , and I will forever be indebted to it.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

My Grandparents’ Place

After my summer camp ended, my whole family decided to visit my grandparent’s village . It is situated away from the city and is full of lush and greenery. I love spending time with my grandparents so I was very excited to visit their village.

We stayed there for over two weeks, and that throughout that time, I was at my best behavior. I used to get up at 7 o’clock in the morning to take a stroll with my grandfather. Then all the family members would get together to have breakfast full of healthy things and fresh fruits from the farm nearby.

In the evening, we would sit by our grandmother’s bed and listen to stories. Then, my siblings and I used to go to the terrace and play games. We would also gaze at their stars all night, as we did not get that in the city.

In short, this is how I spent my summer vacation. It was definitely one of the best times of my lives. I got to learn new things and spend valuable time with my grandparents. I feel blessed to have a loving family with whom I can enjoy my summer vacation.

Q.1 Why are summer vacations important?

A.1 Summer vacations are the most important and awaited time of a student’s life. It gives them a break from their monotonous routine. Furthermore, summer vacations protect students from the scorching heat and give them a chance to visit hilly stations.

Q.2 How can one utilize their summer vacation?

A.2 There a lot of ways to utilize a summer vacation. It can be done through indulging in many activities. One can join summer camps which teach new skills to students. One can also pay a visit to their grandparents or to some chilly place or abroad to enjoy it to the fullest.

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Essay Sample on How i Spent My Christmas Holiday

There was nothing to worry about, however. My mom’s old friend lives there, and she helped greatly in arranging matters. She was kind to inspect the apartment offers found on the Net. Her husband, who is a civil engineer, commented then on all the pros and cons in each case, so that we could make up our minds more easily. He also recommended a reliable van line – they delivered all the breakables we decided to transport safely. Not to pay too much for transportation, we thought it wiser to buy some of the furniture and major appliances when already at the new place.

And that’s where Christmas shopping campaigns (which I usually find too hectic to my taste) came in handy. Due to numerous discount offers, bonuses and other perks, such as free delivery, we managed to furnish our new home with nicest things without it costing us an arm and a leg. Of course, touring the shops took us not one day but ten, but every minute spent was definitely worth it. I was lucky to participate in it all – thus I had the better part of December off school (well, I just had to work harder for a while at my former school).

After we bought the necessary furniture and home appliances, Mom and Dad got busy with some minor repairs and redecoration. As for Christmas ornaments, they delegated this task wholly to me. Oh, how glad I was! I can say I love festive preparations not less than the celebration itself, so I set about the task with all my heart.

For inspiration, I went window-gazing every day; those walks were magical in and of themselves thanks to light snowfalls that lasted a week. The streets were beautiful; I also visited malls. I sauntered past shop windows, took snapshots of designs I liked, and then discussed them with Mom and Dad. We brainstormed the best suggestions, and next I went to collect supplies for the DIY-able things and buy some ready-made ornaments. After that, with time free from school at my disposal, I devoted myself to creativity. It was bliss – if I’d had to attend classes, like it was every December before, I wouldn’t have even half the opportunity to indulge in all the arts and crafts that I love. I made fabric accessories, felted and papier-mâché ornaments, bunting, table decoration, greeting cards and gift wrapping.

Apart from that, I gave a hand in redecoration, too. While Mom was busy cooking, Dad and I went on pasting new wallpapers, hanging curtains and light fixtures. After a few more days of work, we made another tour to stock on groceries (which was a bargain, too due to all the special offers); then all that was left was arranging the furniture, buying a Christmas tree, decorating the place and preparing dinner.

On December, 25 we invited Mom’s friends over to our place. We presented them with a set of designer ceramic vases for their beautiful home, and they gave us a fondue pot, some fine Belgian chocolate and a pound of delicious strawberries which we relished as well as our long chat that wonderful Christmas night.

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Descriptive Essay: How I Spend My Holidays

Introduction.

I spent my time in Devon in the United Kingdom. The truth is that I was given a contract to sell pewter jewelry, but most of the US had been taken up and my supplier was unwilling to allow me to take any of the remaining areas because my business was too small.

Me and my girlfriend found a ticket to the UK that was very cheap, but it took us to Hull. When we were there we stayed the night in a cheap hotel and went looking for transport. Luckily for us we found a lowlife willing to sell us a battered Volvo for just fifty pounds. Without insurance or an MOT we set off to make the 350 mile trip to Devon. It took us around 12 hours, but that is because we made occasional stops.

We stopped off at Newbury where their famous Newbery fruits candy is made. We also stopped off at the very disappointing Stonehenge. The people there had fenced it off and wanted £13 each for us to enter and go take a look. We parked just outside the compound and held our camera over the fence and took some photos that were really zoomed in. it was just a bunch of rocks in the ground and we were thoroughly unimpressed.

When we got to Devon we found a small nature reserve that was up a very large mountainous hill. There was a camp site there so we set up our tent and spent the night. We were so high up that there was often mist in the air. We woke up at around 7am to an eerily misty atmosphere. You could see the mist move like smoke as small gusts of air caught it. We saw a deer sneaking around to see if the campers had left anything, and just as the others in the compound were waking up we started to see rabbits come out of their hiding places and scamper off into the woods.

We traveled around Devon trying a few shops, but nobody was interesting in buying the jewelry and putting it in their shops. After a few rejections we lost our nerve and decided to spend the rest of our time as a holiday. The weather was very mild with very little rain and lots of sun. It was completely different from the rest of the country which is often windy or rainy with grey skies.

We saw a beach with light yellow and white sand, which is unusual in most other places in Britain. We also noticed how blue the sea was, which is another thing that is very uncommon in Britain because most of their sea is brown for around ten miles out to sea.

We accidentally locked the keys in the car and had to smash a back window to get at them. We took it to Stansted airport where we found a plane ticket to take us back home to America. We abandoned the car in the airport and left on our plane. It was a nice place to go on holiday, and the people all seem very nice, posh and sophisticated. I would recommend going to Britain for a holiday, just give Stonehenge a miss.

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Essay on How I Spent My Winter Vacation

Students are often asked to write an essay on How I Spent My Winter Vacation in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on How I Spent My Winter Vacation

Planning the vacation.

My winter vacation was a mix of fun, relaxation, and learning. Before the holidays, my family and I planned a trip to my grandparents’ house in the countryside.

Enjoying the Countryside

Their house is surrounded by beautiful snow-covered mountains. We spent our days building snowmen, having snowball fights, and sipping hot chocolate by the fireplace.

Learning New Skills

I also used this time to learn baking from my grandmother. She taught me how to make delicious cookies and pies, which was a delightful experience.

My winter vacation was truly memorable. It was a perfect blend of enjoyment and learning.

250 Words Essay on How I Spent My Winter Vacation

Winter vacation, an exciting time of the year, is often filled with joy, relaxation, and exploration. This year, my winter vacation was a blend of leisure and learning. I initiated my plans by setting clear goals for what I wanted to accomplish, considering both relaxation and self-improvement.

Exploring New Horizons

I decided to explore a new city, Seattle. Known for its vibrant culture and tech scene, I was intrigued to delve into its unique blend of innovation and tradition. I visited the iconic Space Needle, explored the Museum of Pop Culture, and relished the local cuisine. The city’s lively ambiance and eclectic mix of people broadened my perspective on cultural diversity.

Leisure and Relaxation

Balancing exploration with relaxation, I dedicated a significant portion of my vacation to leisure. I spent time reading books that I had been meaning to get to, including “Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari. The book’s thought-provoking insights into human history and evolution were intellectually stimulating.

Self-Improvement

In addition to leisure, I utilized my vacation for self-improvement. I enrolled in an online course on Data Science, a field that has always fascinated me. The course, while challenging, provided me with a solid foundation in the subject, and I look forward to furthering my knowledge in this area.

As my winter vacation concluded, I found myself rejuvenated, not just from the break but also from the new experiences and knowledge I gained. This vacation was a perfect blend of leisure, exploration, and self-improvement, and it reminded me of the importance of balancing different aspects of life.

500 Words Essay on How I Spent My Winter Vacation

Introduction.

Winter vacation is a time of the year that most students look forward to, a time to unwind and enjoy the festive season. This essay will provide an insight into how I spent my winter vacation, focusing on personal growth, exploration, and the joy of spending time with loved ones.

Embracing the Spirit of Learning

I decided to dedicate a portion of my vacation to personal growth and learning. I enrolled in an online course on data science, a field I’ve been eager to explore. The cold weather outside was a perfect excuse to stay indoors, wrapped in a warm blanket, sipping hot cocoa, and diving deep into the world of algorithms and data structures. The course not only enhanced my technical knowledge but also honed my problem-solving skills and logical thinking.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Despite the cold, I made it a point to explore the great outdoors. I embarked on a week-long trip to the mountains with a group of friends. The thrill of hiking through snow-covered trails, the serene beauty of the landscape, and the exhilaration of reaching the summit was an experience like no other. This trip was not just about adventure, but it also taught me the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and respect for nature.

Volunteering and Giving Back

Winter, for many, can be a challenging time. Recognizing this, I volunteered at a local homeless shelter, helping to serve warm meals and distribute winter clothing. The smiles and gratitude I received in return were far more rewarding than any material gift. This experience enhanced my sense of empathy and made me more aware of the struggles faced by others. It also reminded me of the importance of community service and giving back.

Spending Quality Time with Loved Ones

No winter vacation is complete without spending quality time with family and friends. I enjoyed cozy evenings by the fireplace, engaging in heartfelt conversations, playing board games, and relishing homemade meals. These moments of togetherness strengthened our bonds and created memories that will be cherished forever.

In conclusion, my winter vacation was a blend of learning, adventure, service, and togetherness. It was a time of personal growth and exploration, of giving back to the community, and of strengthening bonds with loved ones. It was a time that reminded me of the importance of balance in life – balance between work and play, between self-improvement and service to others, between solitude and togetherness. As I look forward to the next winter vacation, I hope to carry forward these lessons and continue to make the most of this wonderful time of the year.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Winter Vacation
• Essay on Stress and its Effects On Youth
• Essay on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

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Essay On How I Spent My Christmas Holiday In Nigeria

This essay provides a detailed account of my memorable Christmas holiday spent in Nigeria. It encapsulates the unique Nigerian traditions, festive activities, cultural experiences, and warm encounters that make the season special. It serves as a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria during the holiday season.

Table of Contents

Essay: The Christmas Holiday How I Spent In Nigeria

Christmas in Nigeria is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, steeped in deeply rooted traditions that resonate with the spirit of the season. The air is filled with the melodious tunes of carols, streets adorned with vibrant decorations, and a palpable sense of warmth and belonging fills the heart. This essay chronicles my experience of the Christmas holiday in Nigeria, providing an insight into the beautiful blend of culture, tradition, and festivity that uniquely characterizes a Nigerian Christmas.

How (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); I Spent the Christmas Holiday

The festivities kicked off on the eve of Christmas. We attended the Midnight Mass at our local church, where people from all walks of life congregated to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The church was beautifully adorned with red and green decorations, and the air was filled with the harmonious sounds of carols. It was a deeply spiritual experience that instilled in us a sense of gratitude and peace.

Traditional Nigerian Christmas Food

The highlight of the Christmas holiday was undoubtedly the food. Nigerian Christmas food is a medley of vibrant flavors and unique textures, deeply rooted in tradition. We savored dishes like Jollof Rice, a festive staple, and Fried Plantain, a delightfully sweet treat. The centerpiece of our Christmas meal was the sumptuous Chicken Stew, a dish rich in culture and flavor. The feast was not just a culinary journey, but also a delightful exploration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Participating in Cultural Activities

The Christmas holiday in Nigeria is marked by various cultural activities. We participated in the traditional ‘Ember Months’ carnival, a colorful parade featuring music, dance, and vibrant costumes that showcase the rich Nigerian culture. We also attended the ‘Ekon Play,’ a traditional masquerade show unique to the Efik people. These activities brought us closer to our roots and provided a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage.

In conclusion, my Christmas holiday in Nigeria was an unforgettable experience imbued with rich cultural traditions, hearty meals, and festive activities. The warmth of the people, the vibrancy of the celebrations, and the unique cultural experiences profoundly impacted me, providing a deeper appreciation for my roots and heritage. This holiday served as a reminder of the beauty of Nigerian culture and the importance of family and togetherness. It was a vivid tapestry of joy, love, and tradition, a truly Nigerian Christmas that will forever remain etched in my memory.

Hello! Welcome to my Blog StudyParagraphs.co. My name is Angelina. I am a college professor. I love reading writing for kids students. This blog is full with valuable knowledge for all class students. Thank you for reading my articles.

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I ran away from a troubled teen program and escaped for good. This is my story

Lately, I’ve been having nightmares that I’m back in boarding school.

Each dream begins innocuously enough. I find myself walking down a hallway past classmates standing in line in the dining hall. Sometimes, one of them is suddenly tackled to the ground. They struggle under the weight of fellow student who tries to restrain them. Other times, I’m sitting in a corner with my eyes fixed on a blank wall as days stretch into weeks and months.

The faces are all a blur in the dreams, but the swirl of fear and distress, the pounding in my chest and the rage that I feel are sharp. 

The dreams are more like memories, as tangible as they were to me in the days after my parents dropped me off at The DeSisto School in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, and I began to realize that although I was surrounded by people, I was desperately alone.

I started watching the true crime documentary “ The Program,” directed by troubled teen program alum Katherine Kubler, at my sister-in-law’s recommendation. “You guys have to see this,” she said soon after it debuted, certain that my wife and I would have seen nothing like it.

As she laid out the documentary's details — a group of teens sent off to a behavior modification facility — I realized that she was describing a story that was not unlike the one I experienced as a teenager.

Like Kubler, I was a high school student when my parents determined that I was beyond their control. I’d been diagnosed with ADHD and was expelled from two schools, the second one being a military academy.

While Kubler experienced the shock of being taken away by strangers and dropped off at a school without any parental contact or explanation of where she was going, I actually picked out DeSisto.

After collecting me from the military school, my mother sat me down in her office, handed me a few brochures, and, to my surprise, told me to find the next school that I would go to.

Eventually, I came across one for DeSisto, which sold a story about a therapeutic environment for artistic kids who were misunderstood. The school featured images of a picturesque estate that drew me in.

I never suspected that within 48 hours of my arrival, I would be sobbing, pleading to be sent back home.

Erich Bartlebaugh

Not long after selecting DeSisto, I was driving up to an idyllic Massachusetts town nestled in the mountains. My mother, step-father and I spent my last night before I headed to DeSisto at a bed and breakfast. It was October, and I still remember the autumn leaves and their colors. I took a long bath in a clawfoot tub and savored a king-sized Snickers bar. I had a feeling it was going to be my last for a long time.

Immediately after entering the gated property, I realized I had landed in a new society, governed by new rules. The entire campus was in the middle of a two-week-long sit-in meeting, prompted by someone graffitiing the boys’ bathroom. Pressure was put on every student until someone confessed or was outed by a peer.  

“Sit in” was the start of new vocabulary I became fluent in, reflective of DeSisto’s authoritarian streak. 

Immediately after entering the gated property, I realized I had landed in a new society, governed by new rules.

Rather than friends, new kids were assigned “buddies.” Two students were paired together and responsible, by proxy, for whatever their buddy did or said. We could never be more than a hand’s reach away from a buddy or from another student, for that matter. We were required to travel in groups of three, the reason being that a pair could come up with a notion to run off, but adding an additional student into the mix undermined cohesion.

Every morning was anxiety ridden because of all the potential punishments. 

If you broke the dress code or stained your outfit, you were "suited" and had to wear a formal suit, including tie and dress socks, until you were given reprieve. If the issue continued, you would be "sheeted," which meant you weren’t allowed to wear clothes — just a sheet tied like a toga.

“Ghosted” meant everyone had to ignore your presence. “Silenced” meant you weren’t allowed to make a sound. “No PC” meant you couldn’t have physical contact with anyone. “Hand held” meant you  had  to hold hands, sometimes for hours, no matter what tasks needed to be done.

During "limit structures," students were held to the ground by other students and verbally assaulted with personal jabs. The goal was to break a person down.

“Cornering” was DeSisto’s version of a time-out. We had to sit in a metal chair facing a corner. Once, I was cornered for 60 days. I was only able to get up to use the bathroom and eat. I was allowed limited access to showers. No phone calls with parents or interactions with other students. Nothing. I was so furious and despondent that, at some point, I began to rattle off the F-word over and over again. That was the only curse word we weren’t allowed to say. Each time I said it warranted a $1 penalty.

Then, there was the Farm, the prison of DeSisto. There, students lived separated from the rest of campus, deprived of all possessions including personal clothing. We couldn’t contact home. We had to do everything as a group — including bathroom time. Entire dorms were farmed at once. For example, if the nightly dorm meeting went past midnight because we couldn’t reach a group consensus, we all would be farmed. Happened all the time.

Once, I was withheld from seeing my parents because I was accused of violence for smacking my hand on a sofa during a dorm meeting. This was devastating, and a defining moment when I realized I had no freedom.

My days at DeSisto were tedious and toiling. I was there for just under three years, it still feels like a decade. Every day dragged, and every week and month was so painfully slow that I just lived day to day. I saw how the desperate circumstances took a toll on all of us. 

Some of my fellow students went along with situations most would see as inappropriate in exchange for rewards and freedom. Students didn’t have access to television, but some of the administrators had them in their rooms. Once, a male staffer of the school invited two other boys and me to watch a movie in his quarters. He’d been sitting with his arms around them on the sofa when he asked me to come sit by him. I got a funny feeling and said no. I was never invited back. Later, as I tried to make sense of the things that happened there and connected with former students, I heard stories that confirmed my instincts weren’t wrong.

I became defiant, running away when I found my chances. I ran away from DeSisto three times. The first two times, I was dragged back in a van. My final time, I was determined.

I escaped out of the Farm’s bathroom window. It was the only window that opened in the building. I had convinced the sole staff member to let me close the bathroom door for privacy. As I crawled into the window, he opened the door and yelled. I looked back at him and jumped. I knew at that point I had to just keep running. 

After three years at DeSisto, I ran off into the swampy woods beyond the school, my feet sinking into the mud as I chased after my freedom with little foresight about my next move. Nobody came far enough into the wetlands to find me. Since I was 18 when I ran, once I was off campus, they could not legally bring me back. 

I hiked the main road into town, putting together a plan to ask for some quarters to make a call. I was able to contact an old employee named Luis, whom some of the students trusted. He agreed to pick me up at the Piggly Wiggly in town.

There’s a reason I didn’t call my parents. By the time I left, if there was one lesson I’d learned from my time at DeSisto, it was that I could not rely on them to understand. In “The Program,” Kubler explains her parents were conditioned into believing that anything negative she said about the program was a lie or manipulation. DeSisto’s parents were instructed on this, too. They were advised that if they took in their children after they ran away, their children would be expelled, and years of education — and tuition — would become null and void. 

By the time I got to the parking lot, it was dark. I walked over to a trash can and found it had just been emptied and lined with a new bag, which I took and used as a sleeping bag. I spent my first night outside of DeSisto in almost three years, lying on a bench outside, hungry, thirsty and shivering. 

So much had happened and changed since I was 15 years old and soaking in the clawfoot tub with a Snickers bar.

Founder Michael DeSisto died in 2003 and DeSisto itself shut down in 2004 after controversies, including  fights with the state of Massachusetts over licensing  and allegations of child abuse. The Massachusetts Office of Child Care Services wrote, in a complaint, the school “denies students basic human rights” through practices like strip searches and farming students. 

In 2004, DeSisto was under state investigation for incidents including a staffer waiting more than 90 minutes to take a student to the hospital after she self-harmed and swallowed two razor blades, the  Boston Globe  reported at the time. 

“We admit our response was less than adequate and we’ve dealt with it,” Frank McNear, the school’s director at the time, said at the time. “You’ve got a lot of kids with a lot of pathologies here. I won’t tell you we’re a perfect school, but we’re totally committed to addressing problems as they surface.”

I’ve lived so many different lives since leaving. I’ve spent most of my life trying to push the negative parts of my past aside and focus on moving forward. 

But every once in a while, something pulls me back — terminology, a headline, and more recently, “The Program.” I’ve been told before that I display post-traumatic stress symptoms, but it wasn’t until recently that I connected my feelings, my anger, to my school experience.

I’ve started opening up about my feelings more in the years since I escaped, especially as other lawsuits against the school validate that I wasn’t just a teenager, dramatizing my experience to make my parents feel guilty. My concerns were valid. I've felt less alone.

Survivors, if you can call us that, tend to discuss it amongst themselves, but I never really shared the full extent with anyone outside of them, not even my wife.

Our community of former DeSisto students is more than plagued by the memories of what happened there. Too often, we are confronted by the concerning reality that DeSisto’s body of alumni is vulnerable to death by suicide. The death announcements of a familiar name or face continue to haunt us. 

During COVID, I learned that my friend Sarah died by suicide. I still tear up when I think of her. She was a talented performer and an amazing illustrator. A group of us used to hang out after “meal jobs” were done, when we cleaned the dining room, washed the dishes and prepared for the next meal. She was full of life and laughter but struggled with self-esteem and low self worth. She was a really special and kind person. 

In the decades after we left DeSisto, it’s my understanding that her struggle went on for years. She deserved better. 

I can’t entirely say that my experience at DeSisto was all bad. The truth is, I really began my journey to adulthood there. I learned self-awareness, self-worth and work ethic. I learned responsibility for my actions as well as my emotions. But I also learned distrust, abandonment and the level at which my own vulnerability could be exploited. 

But I can say that much of my life in the years since has felt like climbing out of a massive hole. 

After a failed attempt at community college and many odd jobs, I found direction and put all my energy into graduating from art school. My relationship with my mom and stepdad was OK at this point, but everything was still unresolved. My biological dad and I spoke once every five years at this point. 

I continued to struggle, but eventually, in my 20s, I got my bachelor’s. I learned to understand my parents more. I married and had two beautiful twin boys. I got divorced, I got sober and eventually, I found myself escaped from the black and away from the threat of tipping over the edge. In 2014, I learned what it was to have a real relationship with trust, love and respect. Seven years later, we welcomed our beautiful boy. 

I look at my sons and see how different they are from one another — and see the similarities they have with the old me.

I worry about whether they will struggle the same ways I did, and what will I do — what  can  I do — if they do? Truth is, I could never imagine sending my kids away and frankly, I never would. But I also don’t have a clue what I could do as an alternative. If DeSisto was the wrong choice, what would the right one have been? Was I in that situation as a teen due to nurture or nature?

I appreciate my sons’ personalities and struggles. I so desperately want to make sure that they never feel alone. They are the faces I force my brain to sharpen in on of when the memories of DeSisto begin to creep in, threatening to blur my current reality. They are the ones that bring me back to my life.

Erich Bartlebaugh is the art director of creative for NBC NEWS and MSNBC. He lives in New York.

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What's in this year's federal budget? Here are all of the announcements we already know about

Treasurer Jim Chalmers will hand down his third budget on Tuesday night, but has been tempering expectations for weeks in the lead-up, warning Australians not to expect a "cash splash".

Inflation remains a key challenge for the government, and we already have a pretty good idea of how Mr Chalmers plans to use his budget to provide cost-of-living relief while also trying to jump-start a slowing economy and navigate growing uncertainty overseas.

Here are the measures we already know about before the treasurer reveals all at 7:30pm AEST.

Short on time?

There's been no shortage of announcements in the lead-up to the budget. If you're interested in a specific topic, tap on the links below to take you there:

Cost-of-living relief

Education, training and hecs changes, tax changes, future made in australia, health and aged care, paid parental leave, domestic violence, defence and foreign affairs, environment, infrastructure, additional announcements.

Is your area of interest not covered?

• Tell us what other cost-of-living measures you're hoping to see included in this year's budget .

The bottom line

Will the budget be in surplus or deficit?

• The budget will deliver a surplus of $9.3 billion for the 2023-24 financial year, making it the second consecutive budget surplus in almost two decades
• That said, the following three financial years are all forecasted to have larger deficits than previously expected in December, but the size of each deficit is not yet known
• Overall, the treasurer says Australia's total debt has been reduced by $152 billion in the 2023-24 financial year, and the budget will benefit by a $25 billion boost in revenue upgrades

What does the budget mean for inflation and interest rates?

• The treasurer has repeatedly said he's kept inflation in mind when crafting this year's budget, and is confident that the measures won't contribute to it
• In fact, Treasury predicts inflation will fall to 2.75 per cent by December — well before the Reserve Bank's most recent forecast for the end of 2025 — due to yet-to-be-announced budget measures taking pressure off inflation
• For what it's worth, RBA governor Michele Bullock wasn't too concerned about the upcoming budget last Tuesday, saying she  would wait to see its impact first , but she said the treasurer reassured her that he was focused on curbing inflation  

The reworked stage 3 tax cuts form the centrepiece of the government's budget. They were announced in January, legislated in February and come into effect on July 1.

The changes to tax cuts originally legislated by the Morrison government mean that all Australian taxpayers who earn more than $18,200 (that is, more than the tax-free threshold) will get a tax cut.

Before Labor's changes, the original stage 3 tax cuts were skewed more heavily to higher-income earners .

A person with a taxable income between $45,000 and $120,000 will receive a tax cut of $804 more come July 1  under the revised stage 3 changes compared to the Morrison government's tax plan.

However, the government has hinted at other cost-of-living measures, with the treasurer calling the tax cuts the "foundation stone" of broader assistance.

Among those measures appears to be energy bill relief (in addition to what some states have already announced), with the treasurer pointing out that last year's measure curbed living costs and eased inflation.

Adjustments to rent assistance also seem likely, as do increases to JobSeeker and the aged pension.

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The biggest announcement in this area is the wiping out of $3 billion worth of HECS debts  triggered by last year's indexation of 7.1 per cent.

It means student debts will be lowered for more than 3 million Australians, with the average student receiving an indexation credit of about $1,200 for the past two years.

The debt relief will also apply for apprentices who owe money through the VET Student Loan program or the Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan.

Speaking of university, the government is aiming to tackle "placement poverty" by providing financial support to students to help make ends meet while they complete practical hands-on training as part of their course.

Under the scheme, those studying nursing, teaching or social work will receive a Commonwealth Prac Payment of up to $319.50 a week, but they will be subjected to means testing.

Similarly, apprentices willing to learn clean energy skills as part of their trade will be eligible to receive up to $10,000 in payments . The scheme already exists, but the government has broadened the eligibility to include apprentices in the automotive, electrical, housing and construction sectors based on industry feedback.

Universities will also be required to stop a surge in the number of international students, as part of the government's broader plans to cut annual migration levels back to 260,000 a year — much to the concern of peak education bodies .

Another  $90 million will be put towards 15,000 fee-free TAFE and VET places to get more workers into the housing construction sector , with an extra 5,000 pre-apprenticeship places provided from 2025.

While we can expect to hear more about the stage 3 tax cuts, it seems likely that the government will unveil other changes to tax in the budget to encourage business investment.

One such change will be the extension of the government's instant asset write-off scheme for small businesses for another year, allowing businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million to claim $20,000 from eligible assets.

However, the same measure from last year's budget is still yet to pass parliament — and businesses are urgently calling on them to pass the measure before it expires on June 30 .

In addition to spending more to attract skilled workers in the housing and construction sectors, the government is also tipping billions of dollars into building new homes across the country .

It's estimated the government will be putting roughly $11.3 billion towards housing, as the government works to deliver its promised 1.2 million new homes by 2030.

$1 billion will be spent on crisis and transitional accommodation for women and children fleeing family violence and youth through the National Housing Infrastructure Facility, which is re-allocated funding.

The government has also committed to providing $9.3 billion to states and territories under a new five-year agreement to combat homelessness, assist in crisis support, and to build and repair social housing — including $400 million of federal homelessness funding each year, matched by the states and territories.

Another $1 billion will be given to states and territories to build other community infrastructure to speed up the home-building process, including roads, sewerage, energy and water supplies.

The government has also committed to consulting with universities to construct more purpose-built student accommodation.

Overall, the funding announcements for housing build on the $25 billion already committed to new housing investments, with $10 billion of that in the Housing Australia Future Fund, which is designed to help build 30,000 social and affordable rental homes.

The government says the housing funding measures will also help take the pressure off the private rental market, which is experiencing record-low vacancy rates and surging growth in weekly rent prices.

Aside from the revised stage 3 tax cuts, the revival of local manufacturing is the other centrepiece of the government's budget this year.

The Future Made in Australia Act (which is often referred to without the "act" on the end) is bringing together a range of new and existing manufacturing and renewable energy programs under one umbrella, totalling in excess of $15 billion.

In other words, the government is putting serious taxpayer money towards supporting local industry and innovation, especially in the renewable energy space.

A number of measures have already been announced (or re-announced), including:

• $1 billion for the Solar SunShot program to increase the number of Australian-made solar panels
• $2 billion for its Hydrogen Headstart scheme to accelerate the green hydrogen industry
• $470 million to build the world's first "fault-tolerant" quantum computer in Brisbane , matching the Queensland government's contribution
• $840 million for the Gina Rinehart-backed mining company Arafura to develop its combined rare earths mine and refinery in Central Australia
• $230 million for WA lithium hopeful Liontown Resources , which is also partly owned by Gina Rinehart
• $566 million over 10 years for Geoscience Australia to create detailed maps of critical minerals under Australia's soil and seabed
• $400 million to create Australia's first high-purity alumina processing facility in Gladstone
• $185 million to fast-track Renascor Resources' Siviour Graphite Project in South Australia
• A $1 billion export deal to supply Germany with 100 infantry fighting vehicles , manufactured at Rheinmetall's facility in Ipswich

All up, the government is spending an extra $8.5 billion on health and Medicare in this year's federal budget, with $227 million of that put towards creating another 29 urgent care clinics.

Millions of dollars are also being poured into medical research, including $20 million for childhood brain cancer research , and a $50 million grant for Australian scientists developing the world's first long-term artificial heart .

Another $49.1 million is being invested to support people who have endometriosis and other complex gynaecological conditions such as chronic pelvic pain and polycystic ovarian syndrome. The funding will allow for extended consultation times and increased rebates to be added to the Medicare Benefits Schedule.

As for aged care, the government hasn't announced anything specific for the sector, nor has it outlined its response to the Aged Care Taskforce report that was delivered in March.

Parents accessing the government-funded paid parental leave scheme will be paid superannuation in addition to their payments from next July .

Under the current program, a couple with a newborn or newly adopted child can access up to 20 weeks of paid parental leave at the national minimum wage — however that figure will continue to rise until it reaches 26 weeks in July 2026 .

The plan, which Labor will take to the next election, would see superannuation paid at 12 per cent of the paid parental leave rate, which is based on the national minimum wage of $882.75 per week.

The cost to the budget is not yet known, however a review commissioned by the former government estimated that paying super on top of paid parental leave would cost about $200 million annually.

About 180,000 families access the government paid parental leave payments each year.

The federal government has pledged almost $1 billion to combat violence against women , including permanent funding to help victim-survivors leave violent relationships, and a suite of online measures to combat online misogyny and prevent children from viewing pornography.

The $925.2 million will go towards permanently establishing the Leaving Violence Program over five years, after it was established as a pilot program in October 2021 known as the Escaping Violence Program.

The program will provide eligible victim-survivors with an individualised support package of up to $1,500 in cash and up to $3,500 in goods and services, plus safety planning, risk assessment and referrals to other essential services for up to 12 weeks.

While the funding has been broadly welcomed, survivors and advocates want to see more investment .

The package also includes funding to create a pilot of age verification technology to protect children from harmful content, including the "easy access to pornography" online, which the government says will tackle extreme online misogyny that is "fuelling harmful attitudes towards women".

The federal government is planning to spend an extra $50 billion on defence over the next decade , meaning Australia's total defence spend will be equivalent to 2.4 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) within 10 years.

All up, the government is planning to invest a total of $330 billion through to 2033-34, which includes the initial cost for the AUKUS initiative to purchase nuclear-powered submarines.

Part of that $50 billion will be spent on upgrading defence bases across northern Australia, with $750 million to be allocated in the budget for the "hardening" of its bases in the coming financial year.

More than $1 billion of that funding will also be spent on an immediate boost on long-range missiles and targeting systems.

In the Pacific, Australia has committed $110 million to fund development initiatives in Tuvalu , including an undersea telecommunications cable and direct budget support.

The government has also pledged $492 million to the Asian Development Bank to provide grants to vulnerable countries in the Asia-Pacific.

The only dedicated announcement for the environment so far is the scrapping of the waste export levy , also known as a "recycling tax".

The proposed $4 per tonne levy was first legislated by the Morrison government in 2020 in a bid to reduce and regulate waste exports, after China announced it would no longer handle Australian rubbish.

Waste industry players had been concerned that once the levy was introduced in July, it would have caused more waste to be sent to landfill instead of being recycled.

The scrapping of the waste export levy is part of Australia's broader move to manage its own waste.

A slew of funding commitments have been made around the country, including a $1.9 billion funding commitment for upgrades in Western Sydney, ranging from road improvements to planning projects and train line extensions.

The government is also putting $3.25 billion towards Victoria's North East Link, which is being built between the Eastern Freeway and M80 Ring Road in Melbourne.

Ahead of the Brisbane Olympics in 2032, the government is also chipping in $2.75 billion to fund a Brisbane to Sunshine Coast rail link , matching the amount promised by Queensland Premier Steven Miles. (That said, $1.6 billion had been previously announced by the federal government.)

Also in Queensland, the Bruce Highway will receive $467 million for upgrades, while Canberra will receive $50 million to extend its light rail.

A proposed high-speed train line between Sydney and Newcastle will also receive $78.8 million to deliver a business case for the project.

The government will also put $21 million towards the creation of a national road safety data hub.

There are several other funding commitments the government has made in the lead-up to the budget that don't fit neatly into the categories above.

The government will spend $161.3 million on creating a national firearms register , which will give police and other law-enforcement agencies near real-time information on firearms and who owns them across the states and territories.

The money will be spent over four years to establish the register, and comes after state and territory leaders agreed to set up the register in December last year. The government has described the register as the biggest change to Australia's firearm management systems in almost 30 years.

Another $166.4 million will be spent on expanding anti-money-laundering reporting obligations , requiring real estate agents, lawyers and accountants to report dodgy transactions in a move that will bring Australia in line with the rest of the developed world.

And ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, the government has given the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) a $249.7 million funding boost to upgrade its facilities to support local athletes.

The government has also committed to a $107 million support package for farmers, after announcing it will end Australia's live sheep export trade by 2028 .

Farmers and regional communities will also benefit from a $519.1 million funding boost to the government's Future Drought Fund.

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What I’ve Learned From My Students’ College Essays

The genre is often maligned for being formulaic and melodramatic, but it’s more important than you think.

By Nell Freudenberger

Most high school seniors approach the college essay with dread. Either their upbringing hasn’t supplied them with several hundred words of adversity, or worse, they’re afraid that packaging the genuine trauma they’ve experienced is the only way to secure their future. The college counselor at the Brooklyn high school where I’m a writing tutor advises against trauma porn. “Keep it brief , ” she says, “and show how you rose above it.”

I started volunteering in New York City schools in my 20s, before I had kids of my own. At the time, I liked hanging out with teenagers, whom I sometimes had more interesting conversations with than I did my peers. Often I worked with students who spoke English as a second language or who used slang in their writing, and at first I was hung up on grammar. Should I correct any deviation from “standard English” to appeal to some Wizard of Oz behind the curtains of a college admissions office? Or should I encourage students to write the way they speak, in pursuit of an authentic voice, that most elusive of literary qualities?

In fact, I was missing the point. One of many lessons the students have taught me is to let the story dictate the voice of the essay. A few years ago, I worked with a boy who claimed to have nothing to write about. His life had been ordinary, he said; nothing had happened to him. I asked if he wanted to try writing about a family member, his favorite school subject, a summer job? He glanced at his phone, his posture and expression suggesting that he’d rather be anywhere but in front of a computer with me. “Hobbies?” I suggested, without much hope. He gave me a shy glance. “I like to box,” he said.

I’ve had this experience with reluctant writers again and again — when a topic clicks with a student, an essay can unfurl spontaneously. Of course the primary goal of a college essay is to help its author get an education that leads to a career. Changes in testing policies and financial aid have made applying to college more confusing than ever, but essays have remained basically the same. I would argue that they’re much more than an onerous task or rote exercise, and that unlike standardized tests they are infinitely variable and sometimes beautiful. College essays also provide an opportunity to learn precision, clarity and the process of working toward the truth through multiple revisions.

When a topic clicks with a student, an essay can unfurl spontaneously.

Even if writing doesn’t end up being fundamental to their future professions, students learn to choose language carefully and to be suspicious of the first words that come to mind. Especially now, as college students shoulder so much of the country’s ethical responsibility for war with their protest movement, essay writing teaches prospective students an increasingly urgent lesson: that choosing their own words over ready-made phrases is the only reliable way to ensure they’re thinking for themselves.

Teenagers are ideal writers for several reasons. They’re usually free of preconceptions about writing, and they tend not to use self-consciously ‘‘literary’’ language. They’re allergic to hypocrisy and are generally unfiltered: They overshare, ask personal questions and call you out for microaggressions as well as less egregious (but still mortifying) verbal errors, such as referring to weed as ‘‘pot.’’ Most important, they have yet to put down their best stories in a finished form.

I can imagine an essay taking a risk and distinguishing itself formally — a poem or a one-act play — but most kids use a more straightforward model: a hook followed by a narrative built around “small moments” that lead to a concluding lesson or aspiration for the future. I never get tired of working with students on these essays because each one is different, and the short, rigid form sometimes makes an emotional story even more powerful. Before I read Javier Zamora’s wrenching “Solito,” I worked with a student who had been transported by a coyote into the U.S. and was reunited with his mother in the parking lot of a big-box store. I don’t remember whether this essay focused on specific skills or coping mechanisms that he gained from his ordeal. I remember only the bliss of the parent-and-child reunion in that uninspiring setting. If I were making a case to an admissions officer, I would suggest that simply being able to convey that experience demonstrates the kind of resilience that any college should admire.

The essays that have stayed with me over the years don’t follow a pattern. There are some narratives on very predictable topics — living up to the expectations of immigrant parents, or suffering from depression in 2020 — that are moving because of the attention with which the student describes the experience. One girl determined to become an engineer while watching her father build furniture from scraps after work; a boy, grieving for his mother during lockdown, began taking pictures of the sky.

If, as Lorrie Moore said, “a short story is a love affair; a novel is a marriage,” what is a college essay? Every once in a while I sit down next to a student and start reading, and I have to suppress my excitement, because there on the Google Doc in front of me is a real writer’s voice. One of the first students I ever worked with wrote about falling in love with another girl in dance class, the absolute magic of watching her move and the terror in the conflict between her feelings and the instruction of her religious middle school. She made me think that college essays are less like love than limerence: one-sided, obsessive, idiosyncratic but profound, the first draft of the most personal story their writers will ever tell.

Nell Freudenberger’s novel “The Limits” was published by Knopf last month. She volunteers through the PEN America Writers in the Schools program.