Compare and Contrast Essay
I was given the task of writing a compare and contrast paper focusing on either the similarities or differences between two subjects. Doing research was required, so that we would learn more about the different subjects we chose. The sources in which I found my research had to cited in a works cited page to prevent plagiarism. I chose to contrast two colleges, Catawba College and Appalachian State University, because I thought it would be a challenge. Also, I am preparing to go to a four year college, so I thought it would be great to figure out the differences between the two colleges. That way, when it came time for me to choose which college I wanted to attend, I would understand the differences and be able to choose based on what fits me better. I could look back on this essay two years from now, looking at what information I found out about the two colleges, and make my decision on which college I want to go to based on my essay.
The overall process of writing the essay came easy for me because I wrote an outline using the four P's; purpose, points, pattern, and presentation. I also researched the topics before I started writing the essay which made it easier because I had all my information, all I had to do was write it down. The toughest part for me when it comes to writing was usually starting the essay. By having an outline of what I was going to write, I had a solid foundation and an idea of what I wanted to write. The outline made sure that I would not go off topic because by writing the outline on paper, I got all my thoughts down. This way, I wouldn't have any thoughts wondering around when I was writing. It made sure of letting me put all the information I needed in my essay. As I did my research, I was shocked to find out the tuition prices to get into the college. The fact that Catawba's tuition far exceeds Appalachian's tuition surprised me. Learning about the two schools was more eye opening than I expected, but the essay itself was not what I wanted. I was disappointed in the outcome of my essay and would like to start all over. I have tried to write over several times, but none of them sticks out to me. If there is something I learned about writing, it would be to keep trying and eventually you will get it.