Interview Essay in APA Format

Title: Interview Essay: The Journey of a High School Student

• Name: Alex Johnson
• Course: English Composition 101
• Instructor: Dr. Emily Carter
• Date: October 25, 2024

Education is often described as the foundation for personal and professional growth. To gain a deeper understanding of the educational experiences of modern students, I interviewed Sarah Thompson, an 18-year-old high school senior preparing to pursue a degree in environmental science. Her journey sheds light on the aspirations, challenges, and resilience of students striving for academic and personal success.

Sarah’s passion for environmental science stems from her participation in a local river cleanup project during her sophomore year. “It was eye-opening to see the level of pollution and how it affected the ecosystem,” she explained. This project motivated her to enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) Biology and Chemistry to learn more about environmental conservation. These courses, according to Sarah, were critical in shaping her academic interests and career goals.

Balancing her academic workload with extracurricular commitments has been a challenge for Sarah. She is the captain of her school’s debate team and a member of the varsity soccer team. “Time management has been the biggest hurdle for me,” she admitted. However, she emphasized that these activities have taught her valuable skills, such as teamwork and leadership, which she believes will be beneficial in college and beyond.

Sarah also discussed the financial barriers she faces in pursuing higher education. Her family, with a combined annual income of $50,000, struggles to afford college tuition. “I’ve applied for multiple scholarships, but there’s still a lot of uncertainty,” she said. To alleviate the financial burden, Sarah works part-time at a local bookstore, saving every dollar for her college expenses. Her determination to overcome these obstacles is a testament to her commitment to achieving her dreams.

When asked about her support system, Sarah credited her parents for instilling in her the value of education. “Neither of my parents went to college, but they’ve always encouraged me to aim high,” she shared. Their unwavering support has been a source of motivation for Sarah throughout her academic journey.

Looking to the future, Sarah aspires to become an environmental scientist focusing on sustainable development. “I want to make a difference by helping communities adopt eco-friendly practices,” she said. Her vision highlights the transformative power of education in equipping individuals to address global challenges.

Sarah’s story provides a compelling narrative of determination and resilience. Her experiences illustrate the importance of passion, perseverance, and a strong support system in overcoming challenges. Through her journey, she demonstrates how education serves as both a pathway to personal growth and a means to contribute positively to society.

References

(Note: Interviews are cited as personal communication in APA format and are not included in the reference list.)

In-text citation example:
(S. Thompson, personal communication, October 20, 2024)