Writing An Autobiography 东吴大学教学资源中心 张琼惠 Joan Chang, 2007
What is an autobiography Definition Format
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Self-life-writing Standard essay format Within 2-page length (esp. for entry-level jobs) Effective writing in limited space Basic personal information Educational history Working history Strength and weakness Hobby Personality Life goal
Contents
Before you write ... Resolve the intention of this autobiography
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For seeking the employment as a _____ (the job position) in _____ (the company). For seeking the admission to _____ (the program) at _____ (the school). To learn about the duties of the job opening To learn about the requirements of the degree pursued
Study the prospective company/ Program Think from the perspective of your reader
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What will your reader be interested in knowing about you What qualifications will your reader consider in finalizing his decision What are the qualifications that you have in getting accepted
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Steps of writing the autobiography Step 1: Make your life-list (potential categories for writing)
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Family Friends and playmates Happy and sad times Growing up Schools and educations Accomplishments Adversities Problems in life Good and bad influences Talents Strengths and weaknesses Clubs and social participation Relationships Hobbies Values Beliefs Dreams and goals Etc. Keep only the core life events that are crucial to the way you were the way you are now the way you will be in the future State the most significant or memorable events related to the job/degree pursued
Step 2: Narrow down your list
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Step 3: Outline your autobiography
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Show interest in a certain field/area Specify an interest which is related to the job/school applied. – Describe history of the interest Give examples such as inspiration from certain event, person, experience, book, etc. – State the relatedness of the interest and the job – Explain academic background and achievements Show academic training – Highlight knowledge and skills relevant to the employment Show talents and strengths – Describe extracurricular activities relevant to the employment Describe accomplishments and social involvement – Show knowledge of the company applied – Imply prospective contribution to the company – Give compliment to the company Convince motivation of application – State life goals Indicate the potential contribution of this employment to the goal

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