Sample Student Essay—CAUSE-EFFECT (CAUSAL ANALYSIS)

Consequences of Adventures

We were laughing ourselves to tears, my car was axel-deep in mud, my date was missing a shoe and splattered head to toe with cold, gritty muck. It was the best date we had ever had. When my date Dan asked me if I wanted to turn off the road and look at the stars with him, I could have said “no.” Instead, I said “yes” and ended up having a wonderful muddy time. Willingness to undertake adventure is a necessary part of a happier existence. When you are willing to let go, cut loose and do something new, you discover a sense of self-confidence and accomplishment you wouldn’t ordinarily have encountered. Also, when you stop making excuses and have a real adventure, you become happier and more child-like as you discover something wonderful and new.

Having adventures has made me a more self-confident person. I am proud of being a world traveler. I have been to Europe twice, visiting France and Italy. Had I been reluctant to go somewhere strange and different to me, I would not be able to proudly say that I have traveled more than anyone in my family ever has. I would not have accomplished one of my main goals in life before the age of twenty-one. I have climbed the Eiffel Tower, sipped a cappuccino at a sidewalk café, eaten real Italian pizza, and made many friends from all over the world. I made pastries in Asti, Italy, and stayed with friends in Paris. I went to culinary school in an ancient renovated castle and made fresh Mozzarella by hand. How many people can say that? I am so happy, and so proud of myself for taking those steps, making those connections, and having those adventures. Was it scary traveling alone? Of course. However, adventures don’t need to be scary. Merely stepping outside of your comfort zone is an adventure to be extremely proud of. Simply visiting a new coffee shop, you may make a friend or hear an interesting story. Take baby steps. You will find that the moment you let go of your fears, break away from old habits, you will feel a sense of rejuvenation and confidence you never knew you had. You will become happier and more fulfilled than you ever thought possible. 

Allow yourself to be child-like: unafraid, unbiased, and full of wonder and happiness as you expand your horizons. By simply opening up being willing to try something adventurous, you are instantly transported into a fresh new world of wonderful and interesting things to experience. Most people fondly remember their childhood as a time free of cares and worries, full of mischief and new discoveries. Your childhood does not need to be over yet. Don’t be afraid to get dirty, be scared, or experiment. When I was a kid I learned through trial and error that bumblebees are too busy to sting you when you pet them. I learned that pansies taste like cinnamon, and daisies taste terrible. I learned not to run away from home in December without shoes on. Why can’t your adulthood be as full of fun and learning as your childhood was? As an adult, it is even easier to learn fantastic new things. Go to a wine tasting and learn about a varietal you are unfamiliar with. Go on a hike and find out when buttercups bloom. Explore a cave and learn about stalactites. Simply being willing to get out of your comfort zone and try something new opens up old feelings you may not have experienced since childhood. . You will find that you feel refreshed, happy and more well-rounded as a person. Life is short, say “yes” to adventures.   

Let go. Don’t be scared of the unknown or the unexpected. If you feel unhappy and bored, take a chance and have an adventure. You do not have to go to Europe, skydive, or swim with sharks. Simply allow yourself to explore. Take a new route on your next walk, and you may discover something wonderful. You may accomplish something amazing. You may meet someone. Self-confidence, happiness, and memories are waiting for those willing to dive into an adventure.