Stanford "Intellectually engaging idea" Essay

I've just started and was wondering what you guys think of this topic...

What is the ultimate purpose of my existence in this world? What niche do I have to fill in my life? Questions like these have puzzled me persistently for many years. Now especially, as I search for my ideal college, the perfect major, a profitable career, and the correct path in life, I find it difficult to comprehend my function in this universe of infinite possibilities.

Thanks,
batxc

I've not seen Staford essays written for this prompt but I would guess that this is the most common topic chosen. Thoughtful adolescents all question their own ultimate purpose as well as the niche they are likely to fill in life. Such speculations are highly engaging to them, not so much so to others. Go with this if you must, but first try to think of an intellectually engaging idea that is not so centered on yourself. Demonstrate your curiosity about the world and your familiarity with engaging issues of the day (or of all times).

My teacher said that people who do not take sides belong in hell. At first I did not agree with this statement because I liked to view myself as neutral in all issues like the iraq war and stuff. I believed that taking sides was always for a selfish reason.

After a series of events, I began to question my lack of opinion. These events forced me to recognize myself as a passionatly opinionated person in many large issues. My teacher's quote cured me of the cynasism that came with my neutrality.

That is my essay on this topic in a nutshell. Hope that helps you think about different topics.

Also, "what is my ultimate purpose in life?" isn't an idea so much as a question. Pick a philosophical, political, or scientific idea that really interests you, and explain why you found it compelling enough to write about.

^It is not really an intellectually engaging idea. This is a thought.

i agree