Undergraduate / Common App gap year essay (250 words) [3]

why I took gap year?

I have to write the reason why I took gap year. So, I wrote it down. I need some feedback!

Why I got to take a gap year is I was rejected from all Korean colleges I applied last year. In my country, Korea, the vast majority of people tend to think there is no other way than getting into top-tier college for their bright future. Hence, most students taking gap year seem to think they have no choice but to study for the college scholastic ability test again regardless of their will. This fact made me feel confused because I wanted to do something untraditional. To ride out this storm, however, I decided not to listen to others.

Early this year I took a long trip for the first time to Russia to break the limitation of myself. It was difficult to manage a budget, make a plan without someone's help. Nevertheless, I believed I can do anything under the sun. I started solving independently small and big problems. Through this process, I not only felt a strong sense of accomplishment but got to know who I am. For example, it let me know I have an ability to read 2 thick books within 3 days on the Trans-Siberian Express where the phone isn't available. Also, I could realize I'm a very strong person who can enjoy loneliness and boredom.

Besides, I did countless activities such as doing miracle morning, improving English skills, participating in film festivals, etc. These activities help me love myself. Thus, I never regret taking a gap year and spending my precious time like this.

Undergraduate / Films and Genders - why you selected this specific academic program - common app essay [2]

Please leave your comment! The question is Please tell us why you selected this specific academic program and what other academic programs interest you. (minimum of 10 words, max of 200 words)*

integrative education with Women and Gender studies

"Daddy, you can't see what I see and I can't see what you see. So how can I know what you see?"
"Good question. I never thought of that. That's why we need a camera."
-Yi Yi: a one and a two (2000)

Since I was in junior high school, I started taking pictures with a film camera. I wanted to share beautiful things in front of me with my friends. During the winter vacation, I got an opportunity to participate in the Myung Films Movie Camp. For 2 days and 1 night, I met the film columnist, producer, director, and professor and had time to think about what kind of film I'd like to shoot. The most impressive thing at the camp was a dialogue between Ting-Ting and NJ in Yi Yi. Thus, I set the goal of becoming a director-and-cinematographer who can shoot films that resemble reality and show the other half that people cannot see. To achieve my goal, I will keep trying to find my own tool to see the world through integrative education with Women and Gender studies and apply for study abroad programs to listen to various stories of life all around the world.