It was Year 3. I was up early that sticky Hong Kong morning, my tiny fingers struggling to turn bed sheets and brooches into a messy stola, the toga's feminine equivalent. I remember skimming the directions confidently, picturing myself a Roman noble, rather than a skinny kid in a bunch of sheets. The occasion? Roman Day, the conclusion of our study of the Roman Empire and an enduring memory for every seven-year-old at school that day. Two years later. I moved...

After four years at an admissions obsessed high school, everything feels less impressive. The mantra says being in the top ten is nothing without clubs, a varsity sport, two leadership positions, a perfect SAT score -- first shot, of course -- and hundreds of community service hours. Fortunately for my self esteem, I don't share that view. In the midst of these distractions and demands, I value most strongly my sense of focus. My belief in pushing the limits of...

While I obviously didn't get to see my recommendations, I found the teachers who seemed most passionate about writing me a strong recommendation were...

I interviewed with Reed College, and the interview experience was excellent. I met my interviewer, a former Reed student, at a lovely coffee shop near where I live -- her recommendation, and now one of my favourite places in...