Home

Do the Write Thing Challenge 2021

20-21 DtWT Flyer

The District is in the grips of a violence epidemic. With lives at risk, we need a comprehensive, “all-hands on deck” response from leaders across the District—and that includes the young people who see the impacts of this crisis up close.

That’s the idea behind the “Do the Write Thing Challenge,” a national essay contest that gives middle school students the chance to speak out about how violence affects their lives, and share their ideas about what we all must do to stop it. By elevating their thinking around how to end gun violence and create a safe city that supports their hopes and dreams, we can offer them new pathways to begin the healing process. In turn, when a student writes about how they are afraid to go to sleep because they hear gunshots that make them stay up all night, their words obligate us to stop, listen, and act.

Below are more details about the program, along with a link where youth can submit their essays online. All essayists—along with their principals, teachers, and family—will be invited to a recognition celebration at the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in April 2021. 

Final submissions are due on June 4, 2021 by 11:59 p.m.  

Please join OAG in encouraging our youth to participate in the Do the Write Thing Challenge and help us elevate their ideas to end violence and make the District safer.

Click here to submit an essay for the "Do the Write Thing" Challenge.

National contest rules/instructions.

  • 2020-2021  Contest Instructions
  • 2020-2021  Essay Submission Cover Page  

Classroom Resources

  • 2020-2021  Chairman's Letter to Principals  
  • 2020-2021  Chairman's Letter to Teachers
  • Benefits of the Do the Write Thing Challenge  
  • How the Do the Write Thing Challenge can change minds

OAG’s 2019 Finalists

  • 2019-2020 Do the Write Thing Challenge winning essays:  Tyler Willis  and  Amari Edmonds  
  • 2019-2020  Do the Write Thing Challenge essay excerpts  
  • IN THE NEWS:  Finding a Solution to Gun Violence: D.C. Students Win Anti-violence Essay Contest (WJLA)

DtWT-Can-Change-Minds.pdf

DtWT-Benefits.pdf

2021-DTWT-Principal-Letter 2021.pdf

2021-DTWT-Middle-School-Teachers-Letter.pdf

2020-DTWT-Winner-Willis.pdf

2020-DTWT-Winner-Edmonds.pdf

2021-DTWT-Standard-Instructions.pdf

Sign up for the OAG eNewsletter

Connect with us.

'Do the Write Thing' essay winners

"Do the Write Thing" challenge

The “Do the Write Thing” challenge is a nationwide program that gives middle school students an opportunity to examine the impact of youth violence on their lives. Through classroom discussion and essays, students communicate what they think should be done to reduce youth violence. In addition, they make a personal commitment to actively address violence in their school, home or community.

The essays addressed three questions:

How has youth violence and drug abuse affected my life?

What are the causes of youth violence?

What can I do about youth violence?

This is the first year that the program has been conducted in Asheville. The program was a partnership of Asheville City Schools, Buncombe County Schools, the US Attorney’s Office, the Asheville Police Department and Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office.

The two winning students, their teacher and a parent will take a trip to Washington, D.C. this summer and have their essay placed in the Library of Congress.

Essay By Jordan Gillespie

People all over the world come in contact with violence every day. In my opinion I think that our youth today is very cruel with their words: on the internet, at school, and even at home. I’m a victim of social violence, known to most people as bullying. I’m a larger person than an average seventh-grader; I’m 5’7-5’8 and I weigh about 170 pounds. I’ve always been a large child for my age, and I’ve been made fun of my whole life just for how I look; my height, and my weight. My last name is a southern name, and a boy in class from fifth-grade called me a lesbian because I hugged one of my best friends that was a girl. He decided to collide “lesbian” with my last name Gillespie, and he came up with Gill-lesbian. I was so hurt that day I went home and cried for a couple hours. This year, I was sitting at the lunch table with my friends and someone asked

“Can I have that sandwich?” That person had already had two sandwiches and I hadn’t even started eating.

I told him “No.”

“Why won’t you just give me that?”

“Because I’m hungry.”

“You’re such a fatty, you probably eat all the time.”

After that, I haven’t eaten lunch at school since that day.

My story is one in a million. It’s not okay for this to keep happening to me or other kids. Social violence has had a huge impact on my life. I used to cry for hours after school because of what kids had said to me. I don’t like eating in front of people anymore, and I don’t like talking about food because I’m afraid of what kids will say about me. If a teacher gives out candy for answering questions in class and I know the answer, I won’t raise my hand to answer the question. If the teacher just gives us food I won’t eat it; I give to someone else. I’m afraid of getting called all those names that people think apply to me.

I think that social violence is caused by children who want to make themselves feel better about themselves because they might have been a victim of some kind of violence as well, but don’t know how to express it.  Some children have never been taught what not to say or they've heard their friends say those mean things and think it’s okay. My last thought on how social violence is caused is the human race can be just downright cruel.

In my opinion we can fix social violence but, only for some, because some people are cruel and don’t care about anyone but themselves. One of the ways I think we could fix social violence is having different exercises in the classroom that you could say something nice about one another. Another thing is that if the teachers see or hear about someone getting bullied they need to stop it immediately. I’ve seen a few situations where a teacher is standing there listening to a child being violated socially and does nothing about it; it tells the bully indirectly that it’s okay to keep bullying that person or anyone else. The last thing is that we need more programs and safe environments that children can speak out about these attacks. As I said before my story is one in a million; many people all over the world come in contact with violence every day. It needs to be stopped.

Violence, Violence, Violence, Violence by Rontae Harper

Violence, violence, violence, violence

If you do that while you're young you’ll be put in silence.

See, that’s not how life works;

When you get older you’ll be in big trouble or your career is over.

Yea, violence can leave you with a fine;

it can also leave you with a big bond.

It can lead you behind bars for a long time.

See, violence is bullying, cursing, arguing, or fusing;

shooting, killing, guns, stealing, and whatever else.

The ones in violence are like ice cream that melts.

Lookup violence on the internet, but not on Wikipedia.

Be careful online, especially social media.

Think positively.

Act responsibly.

To stop violence, play sports or play jazz.

Look into the future.

Don’t look into your past.

In order to change, you have to find the right door.

Violence just upsets people and makes them sore.

If you commit violence, you're going down;

you need to come up and fix your frown.

Otherwise, you’ll be like a dog in the pound,

just sitting there looking like a clown.

I’m just asking,

turn your life around.

Violence can be playing with flames;

it has affected my life with movies and games.

It probably starts with guns and gangs.

To stop violence, you need to meet it;

just treat people how you want to be treated.

Say you’re doing well, but get yourself in a mess.

Just be calm.

Take deep breaths,

and squeeze your palm.

Keep your head all about you,

“And trust yourself when all men doubt you.”

Don't be a fool.

You have a brain;

use it as a tool - that's why you go to school.

Stop violence!

If you want a big house you need to respect,

and watch your mouth.

Stop being lazy,

get up off the couch.

If you stop violence, you won’t hear “Ouch!”

Come on guys, have some sense.

I’m just asking to Stop Violence!

U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

  • The Attorney General
  • Organizational Chart
  • Budget & Performance
  • Privacy Program
  • Press Releases
  • Photo Galleries
  • Guidance Documents
  • Publications
  • Information for Victims in Large Cases
  • Justice Manual
  • Business and Contracts
  • Why Justice ?
  • DOJ Vacancies
  • Legal Careers at DOJ

U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray Announces The Winners Of The 4th Annual "Do The Write Thing" Essay Contest During Virtual Award Ceremony

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray announced the two winners of the 4 th Annual “Do the Writing Thing” (DtWT) essay contest, during a virtual award ceremony livestreamed today via Facebook Live and Instagram .

The “Do the Write Thing” essay contest is a program of the National Campaign to Stop Violence.  The core aim of the program is to empower middle school students to examine and write about the impact of violence in their lives, and to become catalysts for positive change. 

A total of 1,567 essays written by middle school students attending Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools were submitted for consideration, and the essays of 12 students were selected as finalists. Of the 12 finalists, Caroline Burton, a 7 th grader with Asheville Middle School, and Noah Graham, an 8 th grader with North Buncombe Middle School, were announced as this year’s winners of the essay contest. Speaking at today’s virtual event, U.S. Attorney Murray congratulated the two winners and the 10 finalists for their accomplishment, and commended all the students who participated in the writing contest.

“Violence comes in many shapes and sizes,” said U.S. Attorney Murray, who chairs the DtWT committee in Asheville.  “Violence can happen in schools, on social media, in homes, and in neighborhoods. Those of us in law enforcement know that prevention plays a crucial role in reducing violence. The Do the Write Thing essay challenge is an opportunity for students to use the written word to express the impact of any form of violence on their lives, to examine its causes and to offer solutions to help decrease violence in their communities. But, most importantly, it provides students with a voice and forum to be heard. The voices and ideas of our youth are critical in our preventive efforts and must be encouraged. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to be a part of this valuable program,” U.S. Attorney Murray added.

During today’s virtual ceremony, U.S. Attorney Murray thanked the Asheville City Schools, the Buncombe County Schools, the Asheville Police Department, the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, the Asheville Housing Authority and Western North Carolina Rescue Mission for partnering with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to form the DtWT committee and to implement the program in both school systems.

U.S. Attorney Murray also recognized the teachers, school administrators, counselors, parents, guardians, and caregivers for their dedication in this important endeavor, and thanked them for supporting the students’ efforts and for ensuring that, under these unprecedented circumstances, students continue to reach their full potential. 

For more information on the national “Do the Write Thing” program please visit http://www.dtwt.org .

Related Content

Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — Movies — Do The Right Thing

one px

Essays on Do The Right Thing

What makes a good do the right thing essay topics.

When it comes to writing an essay on the iconic film "Do The Right Thing" by Spike Lee, choosing the right topic is crucial. A good essay topic should be thought-provoking, engaging, and allow for in-depth analysis. It should also provide a unique perspective on the film and its themes. In this article, we will explore What Makes a Good Do The Right Thing essay topic and provide some recommendations on how to brainstorm and choose the perfect topic for your essay.

When brainstorming for essay topics on "Do The Right Thing," it's important to consider the themes and messages portrayed in the film. Some key themes to consider include racial tension, social injustice, community dynamics, and the impact of individual actions. Think about what aspects of the film resonated with you the most and consider how you can explore them in your essay.

In addition to the film's themes, it's also important to consider the characters, plot, and visual elements of "Do The Right Thing." Analyzing the character development, narrative structure, and cinematography can provide ample material for an engaging essay topic. Consider how the film uses these elements to convey its messages and explore how they contribute to the overall impact of the film.

A good essay topic should also be specific and focused. Instead of choosing a broad topic, try to narrow down your focus to a specific aspect of the film that interests you. This will allow you to delve deeper into your analysis and provide a more nuanced understanding of the film.

Lastly, a good essay topic should be relevant and timely. Consider how the themes of "Do The Right Thing" relate to current events and social issues. Choosing a topic that has contemporary relevance will not only make your essay more engaging but also demonstrate the enduring significance of the film's messages.

Best Do The Right Thing Essay Topics

  • The role of music in conveying the film's themes
  • The portrayal of racial tension and social injustice in the film
  • The impact of individual actions on community dynamics
  • The use of color and visual elements to convey the film's messages
  • The significance of the film's setting in Brooklyn, New York
  • The character development and motivations of Mookie
  • The role of women in "Do The Right Thing"
  • The portrayal of police brutality and its relevance today
  • The use of humor as a tool for social commentary in the film
  • The relationship between Sal and the members of the community
  • The significance of the film's title in relation to its themes
  • The impact of gentrification on the community portrayed in the film
  • The use of language and dialogue to convey the characters' perspectives
  • The portrayal of generational differences and conflicts in the film
  • The significance of the film's ending and its message
  • The impact of the heatwave on the characters' behavior and interactions
  • The portrayal of cultural identity and heritage in the film
  • The role of radio and media in shaping the characters' perspectives
  • The significance of the film's soundtrack in conveying its messages
  • The portrayal of love and relationships in the context of social tension

Do The Right Thing essay topics Prompts

  • Imagine you are a member of the community portrayed in "Do The Right Thing." How would you respond to the events depicted in the film?
  • Create a dialogue between Sal and Mookie after the film's climax. How would they reconcile their differences and move forward?
  • Explore the significance of the film's setting in Brooklyn, New York, and its impact on the characters' experiences.
  • Imagine an alternate ending for "Do The Right Thing" that conveys a different message. How would it change the film's impact?
  • Choose a specific scene from the film and analyze its use of visual and auditory elements to convey its messages.

Choosing the right essay topic for "Do The Right Thing" is essential to crafting a compelling and insightful analysis of the film. By considering the film's themes, characters, and visual elements, as well as its contemporary relevance, you can choose a topic that will allow for a meaningful exploration of the film's significance. With these recommendations and prompts, you can confidently select a unique and engaging topic for your "Do The Right Thing" essay.

Analysis of Spike Lee's "Do The Right Thing"

Analyzing the film shot do the right thing, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Do The Right Thing Film Analysis

Present and past societal racism potrayed in the do the right thing movie by spike lee, "do the right thing": analysis of the film's scene, the embodiment of civil rights struggle in do the right thing, let us write you an essay from scratch.

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Depiction of Race Interactions in The Movie Do The Right Thing

Comparison of the movies do the right thing and 25th hour by spike lee, the relevance of the film "do the right thing" nowadays, do the right thing: how aggression catalyzes racism, relevant topics.

  • The Hunger Games
  • Freedom Writers
  • Movie Summary
  • Hidden Figures
  • Miss Representation
  • Film Analysis
  • Movie Review
  • Ready Player One
  • Indian Horse
  • 12 Angry Men

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

do the right thing challenge essay examples

Moral Dilemmas in “Do the Right Thing”: a Critical Analysis

This essay is about Spike Lee’s film “Do The Right Thing,” exploring its portrayal of societal tensions and moral dilemmas. Set in Brooklyn, the film delves into racial tensions on a hot summer day, focusing on Mookie, who faces conflicting loyalties between his employer, Sal, and his community. Lee masterfully depicts moral complexities faced by characters like Sal, Buggin’ Out, and Da Mayor, highlighting systemic injustices and personal biases. The film provocatively raises questions about violence and social change, challenging viewers to confront moral ambiguity. In conclusion, “Do The Right Thing” remains relevant in addressing issues of racial injustice, urging reflection on moral imperatives in the pursuit of social justice.

How it works

Spike Lee’s seminal film “Do The Right Thing” remains a profound exploration of societal tensions, cultural identity, and moral ambiguity. Released in 1989, the film is set in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn on the hottest day of the summer, where simmering racial tensions erupt into a tragic climax. This essay seeks to critically analyze the intricate moral dilemmas portrayed in the film, examining the complexities of “doing the right thing” within a context of systemic injustice and personal biases.

Central to the film’s narrative is the character of Mookie, played by Spike Lee himself, a young African-American man working for Sal’s Pizzeria, owned by an Italian-American family.

Mookie finds himself torn between his loyalty to Sal, who has employed him for years, and his allegiance to his own community, which is increasingly discontent with the perceived racism embedded in Sal’s establishment. Mookie’s actions in the film’s climactic scene, where he throws a trash can through the pizzeria window, serve as a catalyst for the eruption of violence, sparking a chain reaction that ultimately leads to the death of Radio Raheem at the hands of the police.

Lee masterfully portrays the moral complexities faced by Mookie and other characters throughout the film. Sal, for instance, grapples with his own prejudices and desires for assimilation within the black community, evident in his insistence on displaying pictures of Italian-American icons in his pizzeria. His refusal to acknowledge the cultural significance of Radio Raheem’s boombox and subsequent altercation with him underscores the deep-seated racial tensions permeating the neighborhood.

Similarly, characters like Buggin’ Out and Da Mayor confront moral quandaries as they navigate their place within a society rife with inequality and discrimination. Buggin’ Out’s insistence on boycotting Sal’s Pizzeria highlights his commitment to challenging systemic oppression, while Da Mayor’s mentorship of the younger generation reflects his desire for redemption and reconciliation.

Moreover, the film provocatively raises questions about the role of violence in effecting social change. While Mookie’s actions may be interpreted as a desperate attempt to assert agency in the face of oppression, they also perpetuate a cycle of violence that ultimately leads to tragic consequences. Lee refuses to offer easy answers or moral absolutes, instead forcing viewers to confront the complexities of morality within a context of systemic injustice.

In conclusion, “Do The Right Thing” remains a seminal work that challenges viewers to confront the intricacies of moral decision-making in the face of systemic oppression. Through its nuanced portrayal of characters grappling with conflicting loyalties and deep-seated prejudices, the film invites audiences to interrogate their own conceptions of right and wrong. As we continue to grapple with issues of racial injustice and inequality, the film’s enduring relevance serves as a powerful reminder of the moral imperatives inherent in the pursuit of social justice.

owl

Cite this page

Moral Dilemmas in "Do The Right Thing": A Critical Analysis. (2024, Mar 02). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/moral-dilemmas-in-do-the-right-thing-a-critical-analysis/

"Moral Dilemmas in "Do The Right Thing": A Critical Analysis." PapersOwl.com , 2 Mar 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/moral-dilemmas-in-do-the-right-thing-a-critical-analysis/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Moral Dilemmas in "Do The Right Thing": A Critical Analysis . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/moral-dilemmas-in-do-the-right-thing-a-critical-analysis/ [Accessed: 18 Apr. 2024]

"Moral Dilemmas in "Do The Right Thing": A Critical Analysis." PapersOwl.com, Mar 02, 2024. Accessed April 18, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/moral-dilemmas-in-do-the-right-thing-a-critical-analysis/

"Moral Dilemmas in "Do The Right Thing": A Critical Analysis," PapersOwl.com , 02-Mar-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/moral-dilemmas-in-do-the-right-thing-a-critical-analysis/. [Accessed: 18-Apr-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Moral Dilemmas in "Do The Right Thing": A Critical Analysis . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/moral-dilemmas-in-do-the-right-thing-a-critical-analysis/ [Accessed: 18-Apr-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

owl

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

whatsapp

Connect on Whatsapp : +1 206 673 2541 , Get Homework Help 24x7, 100% Confidential. Connect Now

The Power of Doing the Right Thing: Essay Examples

The Power of Doing the Right Thing: Essay Examples

Doing the right thing is often said to be easier said than done. But in today’s world, where countless options seem available and morality appears to be subjective, making sure you are doing what is best can feel like a daunting task. While it may take some trial and error before you get there, understanding the power of taking the moral high ground will help make things clearer for yourself and those around you. Read on for essay examples that demonstrate how powerful choosing what’s right truly is!

1. Introducing the Power of Doing Right

Doing right can have a transformative effect on both individuals and communities. To illustrate this, it is important to examine the work of some exemplary people who exemplify what doing right looks like in practice. The “Do the Right Thing” essay contest has provided us with three fine examples: Arushi Narula from Michigan, Macy Frances Shaw from Colorado, and Samiha Ahmadizadeh from California.

Arushi’s essay highlighted how making small changes to one’s lifestyle can make a huge difference in protecting our environment for future generations. Meanwhile, Macy underscored the importance of civility when engaging with those we disagree with by using wisdom-filled conversations as an alternative form of communication. Finally, Samiha detailed her efforts at promoting understanding between diverse cultures by working to bridge gaps through education about different beliefs across multiple faiths and traditions.

  • Small Changes Lead To Big Results : Arushi believes that even simple daily actions such as conserving electricity or carpooling can contribute greatly towards sustainability goals if everyone participates.
  • Dialogue Over Dissent : According to Macy, civil discourse does not require sacrificing one’s own viewpoints; instead she argues that effective solutions arise out of healthy dialogue between differing perspectives.

2. Examining Examples of People Doing Good

To fully appreciate the power of examples in doing good, it is important to examine several specific cases. The “Do the Write Thing Challenge” , an annual essay competition for middle-school students organized by National Campaign to Stop Violence (NCSV), gives us a unique opportunity to explore this idea further. In 2017 alone, over 18,000 students from across 30 U.S cities participated and submitted essays on violence prevention and peace building.

For instance, one student wrote about her encounter with a real estate agent who was mistreated due to his race – how he handled it with grace despite being disrespected taught a valuable lesson that going above anger can be more powerful than reacting aggressively or letting hate build up inside oneself 1 . This resonates well with another participant’s story of mitigating rising tension between two different ethnic groups at her school through friendship 2 . Similarly, yet another essay illustrated how cultivating positivity instead of participating in negative activities helped bring down levels of violence in the writer’s community 3 . It is stories such as these which have immense potential when translated into actionable societal changes.

The writings indicate much beyond simply dealing with aggression; they make readers ponder deeply upon what drives human behavior and motivates people towards genuine kindness and compassion outside their own circles. They also call out for collaborative efforts among all stakeholders – government agencies, faith-based organizations, non-profits etc., so progress towards positive outcomes can sustainedly carry forward along multiple fronts simultaneously . Ultimately every act of spreading goodwill creates ripples that impact lives far beyond our understanding , while deeply influencing society at large .

(1) : Do Something Good: “Do The Write Thing Essay Winners Share Ideas To Reduce Youth Violence”. April 4th 2017. (2) : NCSV: “2017 Do The Write thing Ohio Winners Announced! “. February 10th 2019. (3) : NCSV “Teen Authors From Across Houston Show Impact Of Community Coming Together In Peaceful Ways At City Wide Awards Ceremony.” May 19 th 2018.

3. Understanding How to Implement Moral Behavior in Your Life

Individual moral behavior is an important part of personal and societal development. Everyone should strive to be a morally responsible person, yet this can often seem like an insurmountable task. Fortunately, there are several tools at our disposal that can help us understand how to implement moral behavior in our lives. – Keep yourself informed about current events: Staying up-to-date on the news allows us to stay cognizant of what is socially permissible and expected by society.

  • For example, the “Do The Write Thing” essay competition conducted nationwide every year promotes nonviolence among students.

– Develop empathy for others: Understanding other people’s emotions helps break down any prejudices we may have towards one another as well as sets us up with better communication skills.

  • The winners from “Do The Write Thing” , through their essays sharing stories from across America, reveal issues related to bullying and youth violence .

4. The Benefits of Making Ethical Decisions

Making ethical decisions carries numerous advantages. Not only can it help protect the reputation and bottom line of an organization, but it can also demonstrate a commitment to positive social change within society. Doing the right thing is always beneficial in both professional and personal contexts.

One of the main benefits associated with making ethical choices are reputational enhancements for organizations or individuals that take part in socially responsible behavior. This type of behavior is highly favored by stakeholders, customers, shareholders, partners and many other publics who want companies they interact with to be held accountable for their actions.

Additionally, when people decide to stand up for one’s values and principles in order to make ethically sound selections – even if those limits mean not engaging with certain parties due to moral obligations – this decision could lead others to have greater respect for them as well as trustworthiness. For example: In 2004 at just seven years old Joseph Reyes from Texas won his “Do The Right Thing” essay contest after standing up against peer pressure which was leading him down a bad path ( source ) .

Providing long-term gains such as financial rewards are another benefit from acting on what’s deemed morally correct; whether through awards given out or simply generating more business opportunities because you decided not compromise standards set before your staff or client base – these scenarios could result directly into increased revenue streams.

Finally, setting examples of strong leadership systems makes it easier for like-minded followers (eager learners) while also encouraging team members feel comfortable enough pushing boundaries further than previously thought possible without compromising high standards– something Rosa Parks tried doing nearly 70 years ago ( source ) . Establishing effective checks & balances serves towards unifying different stakeholders along similar lines goes beyond practicalities since we’re constantly seeing how small modifications turning into world changing events operated by simple signals designed around inspired courage envisioned decades ahead..

5. Overcoming Challenges On the Path to Virtue

Difficulties are a natural part of life. People encounter numerous obstacles on their paths to accomplish virtuous deeds, but with enough dedication and resilience, these issues can be overcome. Below are five examples of how people have done the right thing in spite of difficult challenges they faced:

  • Stacey : On a shopping trip at her local department store, Stacey noticed all kinds of jewelry being sold for minimal prices. When she questioned an employee about it, she learned the items were stolen from another store! Despite pressure from some friends who suggested otherwise, Stacey was determined to do what was right so she notified police and reported them.
  • Jerry : Jerry had become increasingly frustrated by his teacher’s frequently harsh attitude towards him and other students in class. In order to avoid confrontation during exam period he decided not to reveal what happened when he discovered that one student had cheated off his paper. After much thought though he realized this wasn’t doing anyone justice; ultimately Jerry found courage within himself and reported the incident.
  • Vincent : At Vincent’s school many kids were participating in acts of vandalism such as graffiti writing which resulted in damage around campus grounds even though there was knowledge that severe consequences would follow if caught. With fear brewing inside him as well wondering whether or not going against his peers would cost him social standing amongst others; Vincent made it clear this kind of behavior should stop.

The above-mentioned scenarios demonstrate different ways individuals overcame their respective struggles while upholding integrity along the way despite attempting times experienced by each person involved–they chose virtue over convenience! An important concept highlighted through each story is ethical decision making where moral principles guide people’s choices no matter how challenging or uncomfortable circumstances may be (Do The Right Thing Essay Examples 2020) . Additionally, remembering any significant losses could result from acting unethically provides motivation for those wanting to achieve personal excellence insteadof suffering possible repercussions (Do The Right Thing Essay Examples 2020) . While pushing through adversity takes substantial effort because temptation exists everywhere nowadays; having trustworthiness remain intact strengthens character leading individuals closer toward fulfilling virtuous dreams (Do The Right Thing Essay Examples 2020) .

6. Learning From Those Who Stand by Their Principles

The best way to learn from those who stand by their principles is to observe, listen and ask questions. This sentiment is something we’ve seen repeated in “Do the Write Thing” essay examples time and again: that true strength of character lies not just in having a moral code or set of beliefs one holds fast to, but also in being willing to discuss these ideas with others openly and respectfully.

Resilience & Realization

  • One example from the “Do the Write Thing” essays which demonstrates resilience despite opposition comes from Abby Fister’s piece entitled “Show Respect for All”. Here she explains how taking a stance based on her firmly held convictions was met with harsh criticism yet still did not dissuade her. Through this experience she gained first-hand knowledge about what it means (and takes) to stay positive amid adversity.
  • Another great lesson readers can take away from Tony Grosso’s exemplary work titled “Morals Over Money” illustrates why our core values should never be compromised when faced with temptations – no matter how strongly they may originate from external sources. By standing up against peer pressure he recognized his self worth as an individual stronger than any material gains money offers him.
  • A third example of someone embracing their own truth comes through Natalie Alexander’s essay called “One Decision at a Time” where her insights help us understand that sometimes people find themselves stuck between two worlds because they lack clarity around what truly motivates them. In order for such individuals playing both sides won’t lead them anywhere; rather, developing courage so that decisive action can be taken will open pathways forward.

7. Harnessing the Strength and Compassion That Comes with Acting Morally

Morality is often seen as a source of strength in difficult times, but it has been found that those who act morally are also more compassionate. In an experiment conducted by Pia A.M. Kontos and colleagues, adult participants were asked to make moral decisions while playing a game involving either deception or cooperation. [1] Participants who chose to deceive their opponents reported feeling less compassion toward them than those who chose to cooperate instead. This suggests that people may be able to use morality for both strength and compassion when making ethical decisions. [2]

Indeed, many have noted the powerful impact acting according to one’s morals can have on character building—especially during times of struggle or temptation. For example, in her “Do The Right Thing” essay winner Mabry Smith shared how committing herself firmly to her deepest values ultimately helped her stay true not only external expectations from her family but also of what she knew was right inside: “It took faith […] I knew I had done the right thing.” [3] . Similarly Antonio Santos-Lopez recounted in his essay how he refused peer pressure even though it meant being viewed as different—and managed this by leaning into his core values: “I decided not do what my friends wanted me…I would rather do something morally responsible” [4] . Not only does having principles provide resilience amid opposition; such practices can form inner courage which enable us take stronger moral stances despite consequence.

1)Kontos et al., 2014a; 2)Gibson & Sanbonmatsu, 2011 3),Smith 4)Santos-Lopez Doing the right thing can be hard, but when you take that leap of faith and act in a responsible and moral fashion it will only bring good fortune. We have seen examples of this time and time again throughout history, so we should strive to make doing the right thing an integral part of our lives. This is how we create a better world for ourselves and those around us – by making sure that whatever path we walk down is one which enables others to succeed alongside us, supported by justice, kindness, integrity and respect.

WhatsApp us

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Duke University

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

do the right thing challenge essay examples

How to Write the MIT “Significant Challenge” Essay

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Hale Jaeger in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

Choosing a challenge, topics to avoid, example #1: a significant challenge, example #2: when preparation is not enough.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is known for its rigorous STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), business, and entrepreneurship programs. It uses its own application system called MyMIT instead of the Common Application, and applicants are required to submit five essays. The fifth essay prompt reads:

“Tell us about the most significant challenge you’ve faced or something important that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation? (225 words)”

In this article, we discuss how to approach the prompt and a few tips for writing your essay. For an overview of the five essay prompts, and guidance on how to approach them, check out our post on how to write the MIT application essays for 2022-2023 .

Contrary to what the prompt says, you do not—and should not—always write about the most significant challenge that you’ve faced, especially if that challenge is deeply personal, inappropriate, illegal, or not your story to share. At no time should you feel pressured to write about any trauma that you or someone else has experienced. Ideally, you want to strike a balance between writing about something that has weight and gravity but is still appropriate for public consumption.  

MIT admissions officers will use your response to this essay to try to understand how you handle difficult situations at the moment and what you learn from them during and after they occur. Knowing this, make sure to speak to the significance of the challenge that you choose and not trivialize it.

As you brainstorm and begin drafting your response to this prompt, here are a few questions to consider: 

  • What happened exactly? 
  • What did you do? What did others do?
  • What were the main outcomes or consequences of this challenge?
  • Who was involved?
  • Who was not present that should have been?
  • Where did this take place?
  • When did this happen in your life?
  • How did you approach finding a solution or resolution?
  • How did your reaction at the moment compare to your reaction later on?
  • How have you grown, and what have you learned as a result of this challenge?
  • Why was this challenge particularly significant to you?

You are free to choose almost any topic you wish. However, you should avoid anything that is too trivial (like receiving a bad test grade), clichéd (a sports injury), or personal (romantic relationships and breakups). If you choose a topic that borders on the cliché, you need to put a unique spin on the story.

The conventional sports injury narrative reads like a Hollywood film. The applicant is severely injured and cannot play in the biggest game of the season. They have to go through months of rehabilitation and physical therapy. Finally, they return to the field the next season, and they lead the team to win the state championship. 

The conventional narrative would not yield a particularly unique or compelling essay. However, a unique twist on this exhausted narrative would be an essay that talks about how the applicant was injured and struggled with feeling socially isolated and disconnected from their teammates, whom they considered to be their closest friends. During their time away from the sport, the applicant became obsessed with political organizing in their town, and they met new friends with whom they had more substantive interactions and shared values. In this essay, the semi-cliché sports injury challenge has a unique unexpected twist.

Consider this example of something important that did not go according to plan. An applicant spent months preparing for a 90-minute solo classical piano recital for an audience of more than 2,000 people, but during the performance, they have multiple memory slips. Sometimes, they can recover their place in the music, but other times, they find themselves having to start all over again or finish the piece abruptly. 

At first, the applicant panics and berates themselves, but as the recital progresses, they become more comfortable with adapting to the memory challenges as they arise and using their musical instincts to improvise their way out of each memory slip. When describing this situation, the applicant could reflect on the importance of preparation while being flexible and adapting to new situations and changing conditions.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

do the right thing challenge essay examples

  • Entertainment
  • Environment
  • Information Science and Technology
  • Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Entertainment

Essay Samples on Do The Right Thing

Provoking reflection: "do the right thing" film analysis.

Spike Lee's 1989 film "Do the Right Thing" stands as a poignant subject for film analysis essay, offering a compelling and thought-provoking examination of racial tensions and societal intricacies within a Brooklyn neighborhood. Set against the backdrop of an oppressive summer day, the film's narrative...

  • Do The Right Thing
  • Film Analysis

Brooklyn Neighborhood’s Simmering Racial Tension Through the 'Do The Right Thing'

The first time I saw “Do the Right Thing” was in my English class. Do the Right Thing (1989), directed by Spike Lee, The movie take place in a hot day of summer in a neighborhood of Brooklyn, this is not a action movie with...

Boiling Animosities In Do The Right Thing 

Boiling Animosities in Do the Right Thing Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing is a uniquely crafted film that emphasizes and focuses on a tight-knit, yet subtly expanding community. As the film spans mostly over the course of a single day, the audience experiences a day...

  • African American

Comparative Analysis of Spike Lee and Yoky Matsuoka

Shelton Jackson Lee popularly known as Spike Lee was born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1957. Spike Lee came from artistic, education-grounded background; his father- Bill Lee was a jazz composer, and his mother, a schoolteacher. He majored in communications at Atlanta’s Morehouse College, where he...

Do the Right Thing: Racial Inequality Leading to Violence

Is violence the answer to everything? After watching “Do the right thing” when I left the class left my face stunned and a few tears left my eyes. Spike Lee did an impossible thing. He had made a movie about race in America that understood...

  • Racial Segregation

Stressed out with your paper?

Consider using writing assistance:

  • 100% unique papers
  • 3 hrs deadline option

Movie Review of Do the Right Thing: A Controversial Masterpiece

Do the Right Thing is a politically powerful, controversial and symbolic movie, which is directed and produced by Spike Lee. It concentrates on a particularly hot summer’s day and the lives of racially diverse residents who reside and work in a lower class neighbourhood in...

  • Movie Review

Social Problems Adressed by Spike Lee in His Movie Do the Right Thing

Spike Lee writer and director of “Do the Right Thing” addressed many issues that were the cause of much controversy in America. Lee used ethos, pathos, and logos in his project to appeal to Americans. Many topics that related to the huge racial tensions that...

  • Social Problems

The Semiotics of Race and Power in the Spike Lee Film, Do The Right Thing

The use of symbolism and iconography in Spike Lee’s film, Do The Right Thing (1989) serve as an indicator (use diff word) of racial divides in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bed-Stuy and the power divide (use another word?) between racial groups. My goal is to...

Best topics on Do The Right Thing

1. Provoking Reflection: “Do the Right Thing” Film Analysis

2. Brooklyn Neighborhood’s Simmering Racial Tension Through the ‘Do The Right Thing’

3. Boiling Animosities In Do The Right Thing 

4. Comparative Analysis of Spike Lee and Yoky Matsuoka

5. Do the Right Thing: Racial Inequality Leading to Violence

6. Movie Review of Do the Right Thing: A Controversial Masterpiece

7. Social Problems Adressed by Spike Lee in His Movie Do the Right Thing

8. The Semiotics of Race and Power in the Spike Lee Film, Do The Right Thing

  • Bridge to Terabithia
  • Like Water For Chocolate
  • Catch Me If You Can
  • Film Editing

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Think you can get into a top-10 school? Take our chance-me calculator... if you dare. 🔥

Last updated March 21, 2024

Every piece we write is researched and vetted by a former admissions officer. Read about our mission to pull back the admissions curtain.

Blog > Essay Advice , Supplementals > How to Write a Personal Challenge Essay (with Examples)

How to Write a Personal Challenge Essay (with Examples)

Admissions officer reviewed by Ben Bousquet, M.Ed Former Vanderbilt University

Written by Kylie Kistner, MA Former Willamette University Admissions

Key Takeaway

This post is one in a series of posts about the supplemental essays. You can read our core “how-to” supplemental post here .

What is a Personal Challenge supplemental essay?

Personal Challenge supplemental essays ask you to pick a personal challenge you’ve faced, detail how the problem affected you, and describe the action steps you took to overcome it.

These essays can be challenging for students for two main reasons. First, many students feel like they haven’t faced a problem significant enough to talk about. And second, other students have faced a significant problem but may not feel comfortable discussing it in a college essay.

So why do colleges want to know about a challenge you’ve faced anyway?

Well, admissions offices know that life in college and beyond doesn’t always go as expected. Colleges want to see that you’re resourceful, resilient, and capable of thinking critically to solve problems.

At their core, Personal Challenge essay prompts let you to strategically pick a problem you’ve faced and write about how you worked to solve it.

Before we continue, it’s worth saying explicitly: you do not have to talk about trauma you’ve experienced to get into college. No admissions officer will ever want to read anything you’re not ready to share. In fact, sharing negative experiences before you’re ready can actually work against you. Writing about a situation that you haven’t yet come to terms with can result in an essay that is overall too negative and not forward-looking enough to meet the requirements of Personal Challenge essay prompts.

That caveat out of the way, let’s look at three Personal Challenge supplemental essay prompt examples.

1: Brown University

Brown’s culture fosters a community in which students challenge the ideas of others and have their ideas challenged in return, promoting a deeper and clearer understanding of the complex issues confronting society. This active engagement in dialogue is as present outside the classroom as it is in academic spaces. Tell us about a time you were challenged by a perspective that differed from your own. How did you respond? (200-250 words)

2: Colorado School of Mines

Florence Caldwell was the first woman to graduate from Mines. She enrolled in 1895 and found that her fellow classmates discouraged her attendance. She persevered through that discouragement and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1898. She was described as a problem-solver, who was loyal, kind, and sympathetic to others and displayed unwavering courage. Describe a time when you overcame an obstacle, persevered through a situation, or displayed characteristics similar to Florence Caldwell. (500 words)

3: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Tell us about a significant challenge you’ve faced (that you feel comfortable sharing) or something that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?

Personal Challenge Essay Strategy

When an admissions officer reads your essay among thousands of others , your supplemental essays are one of the main tools you have to stand out. The key to writing a strong Personal Challenge essay is picking the right challenge to talk about.

Personal Challenge essays are all about finding a delicate balance. While your challenge should be a genuine one that you’ve had to wrestle with, it shouldn’t be so challenging that you can’t write about it in a way that is ultimately positive.

While you don’t have to reveal anything you don’t want to, you should choose a genuine challenge.

“Genuine” problems are those that present real challenges to you, your way of thinking, or your overall lived experience.

They are significant. That means that a genuine problem is more than sleeping in late and missing a test. It’s more than losing your big baseball game or forgetting to put gas in the car before a road trip.

Genuine problems don’t necessarily have to be life-changing, but they do have to be deeply meaningful.

Significant challenges might include:

  • conflict or disagreements with friends or loved ones
  • information or an event that challenged your worldview
  • a significant change or loss
  • reconciling with differences
  • Dealing with a disadvantage that sets you apart from others

Pick a challenge that lets you refer to one of your strengths.

Personal Challenge essay questions are actually questions about your strengths in the face of adversity. Since all college essays should be rooted in strengths, your supplemental essays should be no different.

The challenge you pick shouldn’t be a covert way to brag about yourself, but it should represent one of your personal characteristics that is ultimately positive.

Whether your goal is to show your resilience, problem-solving abilities, compassion, understanding, fortitude, or something else, your Personal Challenge essay should work to showcase one of your strengths.

Take the “more phoenix, less ashes” approach.

This is one of the most difficult parts of writing Personal Challenge essays. By nature, Personal Challenge essays are about a challenge. That means that you’re inevitably going to be writing about something difficult.

But essays that only focus on the negative aren’t ultimately serving your college admissions goals. The ultimate goal of a personal challenge essay is to demonstrate how you’ve grown, developed, and changed through dealing with a problem.

The essay isn’t about the problem itself. It’s about your growth.

“More phoenix, less ashes” is a helpful way to remember to focus on the positivity. The phrase refers to the mythology of the phoenix, which rises from the ashes of a predecessor. By focusing more on the phoenix and less on the ashes, you’re focusing on the life, hope, and resilience that comes in the aftermath of a challenge.

How to Write a Personal Challenge Supplemental Essay

Step 1: Read the prompt.

As you’ve seen from the example Personal Challenge prompts, there are a few ways schools ask these kinds of questions.

Some ask you to focus on a time your perspective was challenged, others ask you to discuss a time you overcame a challenge, and others yet give you the freedom to discuss any personal challenge you want.

You’ll need to know which kind of prompt you’re responding to before you begin brainstorming, so analyzing the prompt closely should always be your first step.

Step 2: Brainstorm some challenges.

Since picking the right kind of challenge is important to writing a good Personal Challenge supplemental essay, it’s probably a good idea to brainstorm a few different options.

This structured brainstorming chart might help you sort through different areas of your life to identify particular challenges.

Step 3: List your action steps, think about what’s at stake, and find a positive focus.

To maintain sight of “more phoenix, less ashes,” it may be helpful to list out a few specific details for each challenge you’re considering writing about.

Specifically, think about three criteria:

  • Action Steps: What specific actions did you take to confront the challenge?
  • What’s at stake?: Why is this challenge one of genuine concern? What implications did it (or its solution) have to your life?
  • Resolution & Lessons: How was the challenge resolved? What were the positive lessons or outcomes that you learned as a result?

Step 4: Pay special attention to your essay structure.

“More phoenix, less ashes” also means structuring your essay in a way that keeps the focus on the positive outcome rather than the challenge.

If the story about your challenge or difficulty takes up 80% of your essay, then there’s a good chance that you haven’t written enough to address the phoenix instead of the ashes. The best way to structure a Personal Challenge essay is to quickly pivot from discussing the challenge to discussing your actions, solutions, and reflections.

Depending on the prompt you’re responding to, your outline may look something like this:

I. Introduce the challenge

II. Describe inciting incident (what caused things to change for the better?)

III. Detail the action steps you took

IV. Expand on your solution

IV. Reflect on the lessons you learned and relate them to the prompt

Personal Challenge Essay Mistakes

Writing about a fake problem.

Since Personal Challenge essays should be about genuine challenges, few things are worse than writing about a fake problem.

“Fake” problems are those that didn’t actually affect you very much. The stakes were relatively low, and your worldview wasn’t significantly altered.

An example of a fake problem would be

Writing about a “convenient” problem.

A “convenient” problem is like a “fake” problem, but it’s one that conveniently allows you to talk about an accomplishment.

Here’s an example:

The biggest obstacle I’ve faced was when my team was down 88-90 in the state basketball finals. There was only one second left on the clock. My team was really starting to get discouraged, so I called everyone together to rally them back up. When the clock started back up, I sunk a three-pointer.

While that obstacle was obviously important in the writer’s life, the story itself comes across as a convenient way to talk about their team leadership and athletic abilities.

Writing an essay that only discusses problems, not solutions.

To return to the phrase we’ve been using, it’s a mistake to write a Personal Challenge essay that is all ashes and no phoenix. If you weigh your reader down with all the heavy details related to your story, it’ll be hard for them to climb out of those details to see your overall message.

To make it easier for them, only include the details that are necessary to understanding your story. Then quickly move on to addressing your action steps, solutions, and reflection.

Personal Challenge Supplemental Essay Example

Example essay: lead pipes.

MIT: Tell us about a significant challenge you’ve faced (that you feel comfortable sharing) or something that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation? (~200 words)

Two times a day, I fill up my Hydroflask at the drinking fountain near Room 124. With over 1,000 Hydroflasks of water total, this daily ritual has sustained me through countless lectures, math tests, and in-class essays. What I didn’t realize until last May was that this ritual was also slowly poisoning me.(( This introduction draws the reader in and states a compelling and significant problem.))

Built in the 1920s, my school contains a network of lead-covered pipes. Recent tests of the drinking fountain by Room 124 found over 5,000 parts per billion (ppb) of lead–4,985 more ppb than is considered safe to drink. I started organizing my schoolmates immediately after learning this news, and I put together a petition to the school board. With my Hydroflask in tow, I stood before the board and made our case.(( The writer focuses on the latter part of the prompt to answer the question: “How did you manage the situation?” By focusing on the efforts rather than the problem, the student maintains a “more phoenix, fewer ashes” approach that highlights their strengths rather than the problem.)) Unsafe water in our schools was unacceptable, and the board needed to prioritize the health of its students and staff members. We needed renovations.

After weeks of deliberation, the school board announced its decision to delay renovations. They were concerned about budget constraints. My entire community felt betrayed and disheartened. Not one to settle, I decided if the current board members wouldn’t prioritize our health, then we would elect board members who would. Since then, I have been volunteering with two board campaigns, canvasing our neighborhood, and continuing to organize my classmates to advocate for our health.(( Even though the problem became worse, the writer continues to focus on their actions instead.))

There’s not much I can do about the lead I’ve already consumed, but I’ll continue fighting to keep future CHS students safe.

Interested in seeing even more supplemental essay examples? We've got some of our favorites in our list of college essay examples .

Liked that? Try this next.

post preview thumbnail

The Incredible Power of a Cohesive College Application

post preview thumbnail

How to Write a College Essay (Exercises + Examples)

post preview thumbnail

How to Write Supplemental Essays that Will Impress Admissions Officers

post preview thumbnail

20 College Essay Examples (Graded by Former Admissions Officers)

"the only actually useful chance calculator i’ve seen—plus a crash course on the application review process.".

Irena Smith, Former Stanford Admissions Officer

We built the best admissions chancer in the world . How is it the best? It draws from our experience in top-10 admissions offices to show you how selective admissions actually works.

Eazyresearch.com

  • Essay Guide
  • Thesis Guide
  • Student Tips

Eazyresearch.com

How to Write a Personal Challenge Essay (with Examples)

carolina Hermes

A personal challenge essay offers a singular chance for introspection and personal development. It gives you a chance to consider your past, face difficulties, and demonstrate your tenacity. This essay structure enables you to communicate your ideas and experiences with others, regardless of whether you’ve overcome hardship, dealt with a tricky circumstance, or chased an audacious goal. You’ll walk you through the phases of writing an engaging personal challenge essay in this in-depth guide, complete with samples that demonstrate the procedure.

Understanding the Personal Challenge Essay

The Personal challenges in life as a student essay asks you to describe an instance or time in your life when you had to overcome challenges, setbacks, or barriers. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience, your capacity to face adversity, and the lessons you’ve picked up along the road. This kind of article necessitates reflection, sincerity, and skillful narrative.

Selecting a Meaningful Challenge

It’s important to pick the correct challenge to write about. Think about Personal challenges in life as a student essay that profoundly influenced your development, principles, or attitude on life. It can have been an obstacle you overcame in your studies, relationships, sense of self, or any other area of your life. The task should have personal significance for you and provide information that your audience can relate to.

Structuring Your Personal Challenge Essay

To effectively portray your experiences, feelings, and growth, writing an engaging personal challenge essay involves careful thought and a well-organized format. The following steps will show you how to organize your essay such that it presents a logical and interesting story:

Introduction:

Beginning your essay with an attention-grabbing hook that draws the reader in and highlights the topic of the difficulty you’ll be exploring is a good idea. This might be a provocative inquiry, a moving saying, a detailed account, or a first-hand account associated with your issue.

Background & Context:

Make sure the reader has all the background knowledge they need to comprehend your dilemma. Describe the context, surroundings, and any other pertinent information that establishes the scene for your narrative. Additionally, you have the choice to ask for assistance from PhD thesis writing help if you run into difficulties when writing the background and context of your thesis or dissertation or if you are unsure owing to a lack of experience. They can offer helpful assistance to improve the caliber of your work.

The Challenge:

Describe the challenge in detail in a portion of your essay. When describing the challenges, difficulties, or setbacks you encountered, be descriptive and in-depth.

Your Reaction and Result:

Write about how you responded to the challenge in this part. What steps have you taken? Did you make crucial decisions, prepare a plan, or ask for assistance? Be sure to emphasize your ability to solve problems, tenacity, and any other traits that may have helped you overcome the obstacle.

Growth and Reflection:

Consider the encounter and share what you took away from it. What effects did the challenge have on your emotions, mind, and possibly even body? What new understandings did you get about who you are, your values, or your outlook on life? Describe how you overcame the obstacle to grow personally, discover yourself, or alter your perspective.

Takeaways & Lessons:

The exact lessons you took away from overcoming the obstacle should be highlighted. What priceless knowledge, abilities, or traits did you acquire as a result? Describe how these teachings have shaped your current behavior, choices, or attitude in life.

Conclusion:

Writing a compelling conclusion that connects everything can help you to conclude your essay. Write a summary of your shared journey, highlighting your personal development and new perspectives.

Include a Call to Action (Optional):

Depending on the nature of your issue, you might want to include a call to action that prompts the reader to reflect on their own issues, take action, or adopt a particular attitude.

After you’ve finished writing the essay, take some time to review and make any necessary changes. Check that the grammar, spelling, and punctuation in your writing are correct, as well as the flow.

Maintain You’re Authentic Voice Throughout the Essay:

While it’s crucial to follow a structured methodology, don’t forget to preserve your authentic voice. Remain sincere, honest, and personal in your writing. Your unique perspective and emotions will lend greater authenticity to your writing and make it more compelling. By adhering to the instructions outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll effectively organize your personal challenge essay. This approach will skillfully lead your readers through your journey, captivating their attention and leaving a memorable impression. Furthermore, if you find it challenging to maintain a systematic approach, consider seeking assistance from master thesis writing help. Their expertise can aid you in completing your work with precision and coherence.

Don’ts and Dos

Be upfront and honest when discussing your experiences. Do emphasize your development and lessons acquired. To keep the reader’s attention, employ colorful language and descriptions. Don’t make up or embellish details. Instead of blaming others for the difficulty, concentrate on your solution. Choose a challenge that had a significant influence rather than one that was inconsequential.

Examples of Personal Challenge Essays

Following are the Personal challenge essay examples:

Overcoming Academic Challenges:

Navigating the challenges we face in life essay can be a transformative journey that leads to personal growth and self-discovery. A prime example of this is when I confronted a series of academic setbacks. I realized that my ingrained fear of failing was standing in the way of my development. I, however, resisted allowing this fear to direct my course. I started a quest for self-improvement with pure tenacity. I reached out for guidance and support, shedding light on the power of seeking assistance when needed.

Overcoming Fear:

For instance, I had always been terrified of public speaking, but I had to face my phobia to present in front of a large crowd. I overcame my anxiety about public speaking over time with practice and confidence, and I also acquired speaking abilities that I still use today.

Dealing with Personal Loss:

Losing a loved one was a difficult emotional experience that altered my outlook on relationships and life. I learned the value of cherishing moments and helping others in need through my grief and contemplation.

Examples of challenges you have overcome as a student essay

I have encountered a range of challenges as a student, which has pushed my perseverance, adaptability, and resilience to the test. Even though they occasionally proved to be challenging, these obstacles ultimately helped me become a better and more capable individual. Here are a few instances of obstacles I overcame in my academic career:

Time Management Challenges:

Juggling schoolwork, assignments, extracurricular activities, and personal obligations can be difficult. There were times when I struggled to adequately manage my time, which resulted in missed deadlines and frustration. To overcome this difficulty, I started adopting time management strategies like making a thorough calendar, establishing priorities, and breaking work down into smaller, more manageable pieces. I became more organized about my obligations over time, which led to increased productivity and decreased stress. Furthermore, many students pursuing careers in the medical field face similarly demanding schedules that make it challenging to meet deadlines. In such cases, they often turn to nursing research paper writing services to ensure the quality and timeliness of their assignments.

Academic Setbacks:

It was demoralizing to experience academic setbacks, such as earning lower grades than expected. I decided to take advantage of these setbacks as chances for improvement rather than giving in to self-doubt. I requested input from my lecturers, made note of my weaknesses, and put focused study techniques into practice. I was able to improve my academic performance and regain my confidence by persevering and being willing to learn from my failures.

Language Barrier:

Navigating English as a second language introduced a unique set of challenges, especially in terms of effective communication and the completion of writing assignments. In essays and presentations, I often encountered hurdles in articulating my thoughts coherently and concisely. To overcome this hurdle, I actively expanded my vocabulary, engaged in consistent reading and writing exercises, and actively sought input from peers and professors. Furthermore, this drive to enhance my linguistic abilities not only improved my communication skills but also bolstered my confidence in expressing myself in academic and professional settings. My determination to conquer these language-related challenges demonstrates my commitment to growth and adaptability, qualities that I believe would make me a strong candidate for the Harvard Scholarship Essay .

Dynamics of Group Projects:

Due to the various work habits, schedules, and perspectives held by the group members, collaborative projects have occasionally proven to be difficult. I adopted efficient communication techniques, such as active listening and open discussion, to handle these circumstances. By praising each team member’s abilities and accomplishments, I helped to create a more effective and pleasant working atmosphere.

Personal Well-Being and Health:

It can be difficult to maintain a good balance between your personal needs and your academic obligations. I have occasionally overlooked my needs, which has resulted in burnout and a decline in drive. I gave exercise, wholesome eating, and regular breaks top priority since I understood how important self-care was. This all-encompassing strategy not only increased my general well-being but also sharpened my attention and increased my output. These examples collectively constitute my challenges in life as a student essay. They serve as valuable lessons that offer insights on how to navigate and overcome various situations.

How to Revise and Improve Your Essay

For instance, if you are given a topic such as “Essay on Environmental Problems and Their Solutions” and you’re not well-versed in it, it’s advisable to invest time in research. This will enable you to create quality content for your essay. After writing your personal challenge essay, it’s essential to engage in the editing and revision process. Ensure that your essay flows logically and that your ideas are well-organized. Edit for clarity, grammar, and punctuation. If you’re seeking a comprehensive perspective, consider seeking feedback from peers, professors, or mentors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final thoughts.

Writing a personal challenge essay offers you the chance to share your unique journey and inspire others through your resilience and progress you can create an engaging tale that engrosses your readers by choosing a pertinent challenge, using a solid essay structure, and remaining honest. It’s crucial to remember that your essay about a personal issue demonstrates both your capacity for self-reflection and personal development in addition to your capacity for overcoming challenges. For those who face challenges in managing their academic tasks, there are online homework writing services available that can provide valuable assistance and support.

eazyresearch order now

To Get 40% Discount

  • Privacy & Policy

© 2024 EAZY Research . All rights reserved

whatsapp

Login to your account below

Fill the forms bellow to register

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Home Essay Examples Entertainment Movies

Essays on Do The Right Thing

A neighborhood of brooklyn in do the right thing, do the right thing: racial aspects that happens in the neighborhood, the main topics discussed in do the right thing: opinion essay, racial tensions in do the right thing, do the right thing: gentrification and housing history in nyc/brooklyn, top similar topics.

  • Documentary
  • Film Analysis
  • Blade Runner
  • The Truman Show
  • Movie Review
  • The Boy in The Striped Pajamas
  • The Godfather
  • Double Indemnity

do the right thing challenge essay examples

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

IMAGES

  1. Do the Right Thing Narrative Essay Example

    do the right thing challenge essay examples

  2. Challenges Faced by First Year Students Essay Example

    do the right thing challenge essay examples

  3. 📌 Essay Example on Leaders: Inspiring Direction and Pursuing the Right

    do the right thing challenge essay examples

  4. 📌 The Greatest Challenge in My Life

    do the right thing challenge essay examples

  5. Best Do The Right Thing Essay Example ~ Thatsnotus

    do the right thing challenge essay examples

  6. Overcoming A Challenge Essay Example

    do the right thing challenge essay examples

VIDEO

  1. Do The Right Thing

  2. Did you do the right thing?

  3. Left or right Challenge 🍭🐶 #shorts

  4. Learn to do Right Thing at the Right Time

COMMENTS

  1. Do the Write Thing Challenge 2021

    Benefits of the Do the Write Thing Challenge How the Do the Write Thing Challenge can change minds; OAG's 2019 Finalists. 2019-2020 Do the Write Thing Challenge winning essays: Tyler Willis and Amari Edmonds 2019-2020 Do the Write Thing Challenge essay excerpts IN THE NEWS: Finding a Solution to Gun Violence: D.C. Students Win Anti-violence ...

  2. 'Do the Write Thing' essay winners

    The "Do the Write Thing" challenge is a nationwide program that gives middle school students an opportunity to examine the impact of youth violence on their lives. Through classroom discussion ...

  3. Help Stop Youth Violence

    An initiative of the National Campaign to Stop Violence, Do the Write Thing (DtWT) is a writing program for middle school students that positions them as community catalysts as they examine the root causes and impact of youth violence. Students write, we listen. Learn more.

  4. Analysis of the Film 'Do the Right Thing'

    This essay sample was donated by a student to help the academic community. Papers provided by EduBirdie writers usually outdo students' samples. In Spike Lee's 1989 film, 'Do the Right Thing', small details in the film's setting come together to create an overall deeper meaning to the film. This controversial film is set in Brooklyn ...

  5. Understanding "Do the Right Thing": a Critical Examination

    Essay Example: Spike Lee's 1989 masterpiece, "Do the Right Thing," isn't just a movie; it's a pulsating, in-your-face exploration of race, tension, and the moral dilemmas that tear at the fabric of a community simmering under the heat of both the sun and societal pressure. Set on a single block

  6. U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray Announces The Winners Of The 4th Annual "Do

    The Do the Write Thing essay challenge is an opportunity for students to use the written word to express the impact of any form of violence on their lives, to examine its causes and to offer solutions to help decrease violence in their communities. But, most importantly, it provides students with a voice and forum to be heard. ...

  7. How to Write the "Overcoming Challenges" Essay + Examples

    1. Avoid trivial or common topics. While there aren't many hard-and-fast rules for choosing an essay topic, students should avoid overdone topics. These include: Working hard in a challenging class. Overcoming a sports injury. Moving schools or immigrating to the US. Tragedy (divorce, death, abuse)

  8. 8 Overcoming Challenges College Essay Examples

    Essay 1: Becoming a Coach. "Advanced females ages 13 to 14 please proceed to staging with your coaches at this time.". Skittering around the room, eyes wide and pleading, I frantically explained my situation to nearby coaches. The seconds ticked away in my head; every polite refusal increased my desperation.

  9. Do the Write Thing

    The Do the Write Thing Challenge (or DtWT) is a writing program for junior high students organized by the U.S. National Campaign to Stop Violence. [1] [2] [3] Intended to reduce youth violence, the Do the Write Thing Essay Challenge Program began in 1994 as a local program in Washington, D.C. and expanded in 1996 to other cities.

  10. Do the Right Thing Film Analysis: [Essay Example], 605 words

    Published: Oct 2, 2020. Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing (1989) is about the day to day life in a Brooklyn neighborhood and the racial strains confined from within. It demonstrates the differences of the various characters of a modern neighborhood. Trust and brutality embody the ongoing troubles about racism in America.

  11. Essays on Do The Right Thing

    What Makes a Good Do The Right Thing Essay Topics. When it comes to writing an essay on the iconic film "Do The Right Thing" by Spike Lee, choosing the right topic is crucial. A good essay topic should be thought-provoking, engaging, and allow for in-depth analysis. It should also provide a unique perspective on the film and its themes.

  12. "Do the Right Thing": Exploring Themes of Race and Social ...

    Ultimately, "Do the Right Thing" challenges viewers to consider what it means to "do the right thing" in a world marred by racial injustice and social inequality. It prompts us to confront the moral choices we make in the face of adversity and to recognize the destructive consequences of racial tension. ... Your essay sample has been sent. In ...

  13. How to Write an "Overcoming Challenges"

    That's an added bonus with using simple and direct language—doing so allows you to set up your challenges in the first paragraph or two, so you can then move on and dedicate most of the essay to a) what you did about it and b) what you learned. So just tell us, with clear and direct language. 2. WITH A LITTLE HUMOR.

  14. Moral Dilemmas in "Do the Right Thing": a Critical Analysis

    Essay Example: Spike Lee's seminal film "Do The Right Thing" remains a profound exploration of societal tensions, cultural identity, and moral ambiguity. Released in 1989, the film is set in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn on the hottest day of the summer, where simmering racial

  15. Do The Right Thing

    1. An Examination of Racism in America Do the Right Thing by Spike Lee. Words • 1383. Pages • 6. Do the Right Thing is a film directed by Spike Lee in 1989 about the problems of racism in America. It is inspired by a girl named Tawana Brawley who said "she had been abducted and raped by a group of men- some carrying police badges ...

  16. The Power of Doing the Right Thing: Essay Examples

    To fully appreciate the power of examples in doing good, it is important to examine several specific cases. The "Do the Write Thing Challenge", an annual essay competition for middle-school students organized by National Campaign to Stop Violence (NCSV), gives us a unique opportunity to explore this idea further. In 2017 alone, over 18,000 ...

  17. Do the Right Thing Challenge Essay Example

    Do the Right Thing Essay. "Hate, it is with this hand that Cane iced his brother. Love, these five fingers go strait to the soul of man. The story of life is this; static, one hand is always fighting the other.". This is said by Radio Raheem in the film Do the Right Thing by Spike Lee.

  18. How to Write the MIT "Significant Challenge" Essay

    Example #1: A Significant Challenge. The conventional sports injury narrative reads like a Hollywood film. The applicant is severely injured and cannot play in the biggest game of the season. They have to go through months of rehabilitation and physical therapy. Finally, they return to the field the next season, and they lead the team to win ...

  19. Essay Samples on Do The Right Thing

    Provoking Reflection: "Do the Right Thing" Film Analysis. Spike Lee's 1989 film "Do the Right Thing" stands as a poignant subject for film analysis essay, offering a compelling and thought-provoking examination of racial tensions and societal intricacies within a Brooklyn neighborhood. Set against the backdrop of an oppressive summer day, the ...

  20. Analysis of Spike Lee's 'Do the Right Thing'

    This shows that Spike Lee's use of sound effects in this film was the key factor in how it received and set the mood for a very important reason, forgetting the audience's attention. In conclusion, when it comes to the movie 'Do the Right Thing' written and directed by Spike Lee, the movie has been focusing on how the people has been ...

  21. How to Write a Personal Challenge Essay (with Examples)

    Step 2: Brainstorm some challenges. Since picking the right kind of challenge is important to writing a good Personal Challenge supplemental essay, it's probably a good idea to brainstorm a few different options. This structured brainstorming chart might help you sort through different areas of your life to identify particular challenges.

  22. How to Write a Personal Challenge Essay (with Examples)

    Include a Call to Action (Optional): Editing: Maintain You're Authentic Voice Throughout the Essay: Don'ts and Dos. Examples of Personal Challenge Essays. Overcoming Academic Challenges: Overcoming Fear: Dealing with Personal Loss: Examples of challenges you have overcome as a student essay.

  23. Do The Right Thing Essay Examples

    The first time I saw "Do the Right Thing" was in my English class. Do the Right Thing (1989), directed by Spike Lee, the movie take place in a hot day of summer in a neighbourhood of Brooklyn, this is not an action movie with the typical violence, drugs, and firearms, there are people living...