<p>Hi,
Okay I’m applying for the Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute at The Center for Rural Development in Somerset, KY… Basically it’s an intensive, weeklong program focused on developing creativity, teamwork, and business skills. Participants will be divided into teams with daily “apprentice like” competitons. I need some advice from you guys because I really MUST get into this program…it’s not even an option! Here’s the problem— It says “Briefly describe the type of business you would like to start.” I need a unique type of business that would really help my community as well. I want my answer to stand out. Any ideas??? Please help!</p>
<p>Also please help with these questions as well—
Please list you extracurricular activities – high school, community, church, hobbies. (What would look good)</p>
<p>2.Please list you work related activities for which you have been paid.
(I don’t have a job… what else looks good)</p>
<li><p>What are your favorite classes in High School?
(What classes would look the best?)</p></li>
<li><p>What are your career goals?
(I want to either be an engineer or a doctor of some sort… I also want to go to graduate school)</p></li>
<li><p>Briefly describe the type of business you would like to start.
(I NEED HELP WITH THIS ONE THE MOST)</p></li>
</ol>
<p>6.Why are you interested in starting a business.
(MAJOR HELP PLEASE)</p>
<p>7.Why do you think you can succeed in starting a new business?
(What qualities look good) what should I say???</p>
<p>michelle_b, from looking at some of your past posts, it seems like you have a long list of ECs. Which of them are most interesting to you? What do you love doing? Whatever that is, think about that and what kind of business you could start. Frankly, you seem overly focused on crafting your essay to "look good". </p>
<p>What "looks good" is a sincere interest or passion in something you are committed to. You said:</p>
<p>"I really MUST get into this program...it's not even an option!"</p>
<p>Does that mean you are so passionate about being an entrepreneur that you cannot imagine missing this opportunity? If so, then write about it. If that is true then I don't think you need help answering those questions.</p>
<p>Or does it mean that you think you need this activity on your resume to get into Cornell, Penn or Princeton? If so then don't waste your time or money. It won't fool the admissions people.</p>
<p>I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, but I see so many kids on CC worried about what "looks good". I'd bet that the majority of the kids who get into Cornell, Penn and Princeton do all the obvious things (take toughest course load, good grades, good test scores, good recs etc) AND have something they are committed to and passionate about.</p>
<p>As with the above poster, I'm sorry if this is harsh:
Part of being an entrepreneur is coming up with your own ideas and innovating. People on these boards will be happy to proofread your essays (myself included). However, you cannot expect people to come up with seven essay topics for you. You are the one who will attend the program if you get in - you should write the application. It shouldn't be about what 'looks good'. This doesn't mean put your best foot forward, but do not plan every motion you make based upon the predicted response of adcoms at a summer program or college. Base your essays around something you love - not something you think adcoms will love.</p>
<p>Don't worry as much about what "looks good" as what is true. If a school doesn't think you will fit in there because of your academic interests and your passions then that is something worth knowing. No one should aspire to go to a school that wouldn't want them for who they really are. </p>
<p>One suggestion though: this doesn't apply as much to this as to more freeform essays, but I always find looking through well known quotes that pertain to something as a way to jump start ideas. Also, starting a paper with a thoughtful quote and then expanding upon it and applying it to your ideas can be a good way to start something. Just make sure you to bring original ideas to it if you do that though; dont just repeat the quote in a bunch of different ways.</p>
<p>How would any of us know what type of business would help your community? Most people have never been to eastern Kentucky. What might be more effective is coming up with some ideas on your own and discussing then with leaders in your community.</p>