Each year at University Convocation, our incoming class engages in reflective dialogue with the author of a common text. What book by a living author would you recommend for your incoming class to read and why would this be an important shared text?
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Title: The Power of Empathy: Recommending “Educated” by Tara Westover as a Common Text for Incoming University Students
Introduction:
Selecting a common text for incoming university students is an opportunity to foster a sense of community, critical thinking, and empathy. In this regard, I would highly recommend “Educated” by Tara Westover as a shared text. This memoir not only captivates readers with its powerful narrative but also encourages reflection on the themes of education, personal growth, and the power of one’s own story.
Thesis Statement:
“Educated” by Tara Westover would be an important shared text for incoming university students, as it invites readers to contemplate the transformative power of education, challenges preconceived notions, and highlights the importance of resilience and self-discovery in one’s journey towards personal growth.
Body:
The Transformative Power of Education:
“Educated” chronicles Westover’s journey from a childhood marked by isolation and abuse in rural Idaho to her pursuit of education at prestigious universities. This memoir serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of education and how it can empower individuals to break free from societal constraints and shape their own destinies.
Challenging Preconceived Notions:
Westover’s memoir challenges readers to question preconceived notions about identity, family, and the world. Through her experiences, readers are confronted with the idea that our beliefs and understandings can be heavily influenced by our upbringing and the environments in which we grow up. This encourages critical thinking and the exploration of perspectives beyond one’s own.
The Importance of Resilience and Self-Discovery:
The journey depicted in “Educated” highlights the significance of resilience and self-discovery in overcoming adversity. Westover’s determination to seek knowledge and forge her own path serves as an inspiring example for students embarking on their university journey. It encourages them to navigate challenges, embrace personal growth, and find their true passions and values.
Empathy and Understanding:
Reading “Educated” cultivates empathy and understanding among incoming university students. Westover’s memoir invites readers into her world, allowing them to witness her struggles, triumphs, and moments of vulnerability. Through this shared experience, students can develop a deeper sense of empathy towards others who have faced adversity or come from different backgrounds.
Relevance to University Life:
“Educated” resonates with the experiences of university students, who are often in the process of discovering their own identities and passions while navigating new academic and social environments. Westover’s narrative serves as a reminder that education is not solely confined to the classroom but encompasses personal growth, self-reflection, and the quest for knowledge.
Conclusion:
“Educated” by Tara Westover is an ideal choice for a common text for incoming university students. This memoir not only captivates readers with its compelling storytelling but also prompts critical thinking, empathy, and self-reflection. By exploring themes of education, personal growth, and resilience, “Educated” serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue among students as they embark on their own transformative journeys at university. It fosters a sense of community, encourages empathy, and reminds students of the power they hold in shaping their own futures.
