There are so many options that teenagers have today that sometimes we are so overwhelmed with the best one.  In today's world, we really can be whatever we want to be, but it's hard to make that final decision.  Lucky for us, we have many different programs designed specifically to help students decide their careers.  The Living-Learning program that the University of Illinois has seems like it would be very helpful to those who are unsure of their future.
    My future is fairly uncertain.  I have thought a long time about possibly becoming an elementary teacher or an art teacher, but I feel as though I shouldn't limit my options when I haven't been fully exposed to everything.  I feel that if I were enrolled in the Weston Exploration Program, it would benefit me greatly in my career choice.  I think it would give me a greater exposure to topics I haven't had the opportunity to take in high school.  It would give me a better sense of who I want to be as an adult.
    Growing up is a good part of college, and I want to make sure I make the best of it.  I believe I could contribute to the program because I have not always been the best at traditional school.  I'm much better at topics I find much more interesting like sociology and photography, rather than calculus.  I think the exposure to the program would benefit more because I would find it much more interesting, therefore I could contribute a lot since I would enjoy going to the classes.
    The classes I want to take in college are much different than the ones I took in high school.  I'm hoping the Weston Exploration Program would allow me to use my strengths instead of my weaknesses.  This program would be very beneficial to those who are unsure of their paths in life, like me.

Sample Essay #2

    When applying to colleges, I had the intent of graduating with a degree in Secondary Education.  As the days went by, I began to doubt my decision, thinking, what if this is not what I end up wanting to do?  How will I know for sure?  I wanted to be able to explore my options as far as careers and education come in to play.
    I feel that by attending college, I am on my way to exploring my future career opportunities.  By living in a Living-Learning Community, I am given the chance to explore my options.  I can examine my interests onsite, which is very convenient.  I applied to U of I under Secondary Education majoring in Mathematics.  I am not only interested in mathematics but various other things such as art.  I know that by being given the opportunity to explore my options, I will be able to make the best decision as far as education at U of I.  U of I is a great school and I want to get the most that I can out of it.  When I heard about Weston, I was overjoyed to find out that U of I has a program that can help me decide on a major that is right for me.  I think this will give me a head start in deciding where I fit as far as careers go.  Interacting with others and trying out different interests will provide me with backgrounds in many majors.  This will broaden my options on learning, thus helping me make the right decision.
    I have always enjoyed being involved in a variety of activities, including sports, academic clubs, volunteer work, etc. and hope to share my experiences and enthusiasm with others.