keep yourself out of the essay. The essay should focus on an aspect of the subject’s life or personality.
• Avoid using first person point of view. Do not use “I.” Avoid statements like the following: I interviewed… My ____ said…, etc. The paper should be written in third person and focus completely on the person being profiled.
• Essay length should be 2 1/2 – 4 pages.
• Essay should be double spaced.
• Use standard 12 pt, Times New Roman font.
• The paper should be in MLA format. Use your textbook. MLA format includes the format & location of the page numbers, identifying information, title, etc.
• Write a MINIMUM of a five paragraph essay—most will require more.
• Use specific information and sensory details.
• By the end of the essay the reader should have a clear impression of the subject and the focus.
• Give the essay a title that is specific and interesting.
• Introduction should begin with description or action. Avoid statements like the following: I’m going to tell you about… OR in this essay….
• Introduction should draw the reader in and should include a thesis statement.
• The conclusion should wrap-up the subject.
• Concentrate on solid paragraph structure.
• Each paragraph should have a main point (topic sentence) and supporting evidence.
• Avoid run-on sentences and fragments.
• Avoid tense shifts; be consistent.
• Proof read the essay and correct grammatical errors.
• Organize the essay so that ideas flow from one paragraph to the next; use transitions.
• The essay needs to have a focus. Avoid offering an overview of a life or providing a random list of facts.

When you have completed the essay and made the necessary revisions, submit it in the proper drop box.
Remember to add the copy of the rough draft to the document. The final revised paper will appear first; the rough draft will appear second.
Your first essay will be a profile essay. You have chosen a person who is either part of a different culture or part of a different generation. Now you need to prepare for your interview. (Interviews must occur before the first essay.)

Consider a possible focus for the interview. You might not know the focus of the interview /essay prior to the interview, but you should have a few ideas.

A few options include the following:

• A significant event in an individual’s life.
• Aspects of the individual’s culture or subculture
• What makes the individual unique?