Connect the dots. How have the influences in your life shaped you?
“Ok.
I’d actually rather not.
I think taking my time to connect the dots–reaching conclusions only when I absolutely have to–is advantageous for long-term relationship-building with people, concepts, and other things.
So, sure; I’ll connect the dots. But I won’t connect them anytime soon.”
11.17.2021, Ken Leng
Above is the beginning of an attempt to answer an essay prompt that is, as of November 23rd, 2021; and has been, as of August 2018 at the latest; part of the application process for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, which is one of multiple possibilities for attending Stanford University as a graduate student.
This page is devoted to sharing writings that I have produced while trying to engage with the prompt.
Hope you enjoy the content hoisted here!
A 2022 New Year’s Reflection
“When one considers how the influences in their life have shaped themselves, they must give attention to multiple versions of themselves. A few examples of versions of oneself that should be given attention to…“
Read the whole thing here!
1.1.2022
Attempt #???
“Connecting the dots is a performance that has been reproduced multiple times throughout human history….”
Read the whole thing here!
11.17.2021
Additional contextual info regarding this website page:
Between August 2018 and November 2020, I sought to ‘connect the dots,’ in paying respects to the following words (paraphrased): “[Based on what we’ve heard from current and past scholars, the earlier you start preparing to apply, the easier it will be to apply.]” Paying respects to these words led me towards a future where I worked in stride for 2 years and 3 months to develop an answer to the prompt that I felt satisfied with.
I have never developed an answer to the prompt that I’ve been completely satisfied with, while looking to use my answers as part of my application for acceptance into the program; and I have never gotten acceptance into the program. However, as I reflect on what I’ve written, I’m satisfied with the outcome. There’s a lot that I gained from engaging with the prompt; I postulate that the many things I gained include learnings that I’ve developed awareness of, as well as learnings that I’ve yet to develop an awareness of.
Pasfut Trailblazing 