The topic:
For almost one hundred years, the Latin words, "Vires, Artes, Mores" have been the guiding philosophy behind Florida State University. Vires signifies strength of all kinds - moral, physical, and intellectual; Artes alludes to the beauty of intellectual pursuits as exemplified in skill, craft, or art; and Mores refers to character, custom, or tradition. Describe how one or more of the values embodied in these concepts are reflected in your life.
My essay:
"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly" - Theodore Roosevelt, April 23, 1910
Throughout my life, I have been in that very arena many times. In fact, some of the greatest struggle occurs in the arena. "Vires, Artes, Mores" have been the guiding philosophy behind Florida State University for almost one hundred years. I follow that same philosophy in my everyday life and see it as a challenge excel above all others. All three concepts have one thing in common: one must fight the good fight, so that he may attain to the highest standard of all three of these. For me personally, there are many values related directly to "Vires, Artes, Mores," in which I work to rise above nearly every day and strive to be great: Strength, skill, and character.
My greatest strength is my being of independence. As a child, I learned to do many things by myself. I learned that in life the best things come to those who earn them, not necessarily to those who wait. I am proud to say that I have never had anything handed to me on a silver platter; I have earned and I deserve everything I have achieved. I have grown accustomed to the "I can do it by myself" mentality; which, proves to be one of my strongest features.
I am a very practical and creative person; features valued among others. At work, when the copier breaks instead of calling the maintenance crew, I troubleshoot the problem and fix the issue myself. Most people around the office opt to go on a search for another copier to complete the task at hand; however, I confront and tackle the issues that are presented to me - I choose the arena.
Throughout my life I have heard, "Character is the things you do and the person you are when nobody is watching." Who am I? I am the person to stops at the stop sign when I know nobody is coming. I am the person, who doesn't look her neighbor's test given the opportunity. I am the giver; not the taker. I take pride in myself and my morals and would be honored to become a Florida State Seminole. I feel that my independent and practical personality, along with my character, would be a great addition to Florida State University and look forward to carrying along the tradition of excellence that is associated with being a "Seminole."
Please let me know what I can do to improve my essay.
It is absolutely a good thing. The more secure and confident you are in your writing, the more confident and successful a student you will be, and in the end that is what the board wants.
