Who’d have thought the terrific writers at the parody news site, The Onion, would give us the classic example of how *not* to write a college essay? But they have, and not only is it hilarious, but it is a great example of telling, not showing, and why “telling” doesn’t work. This is why you start essays with a story, or a moment from your life, or some detailed descriptive writing. This is why you don’t use adjectives to describe yourself. Take a look here, and enjoy the laugh.