Honors Program

Reflections on Recent Readings

This is your opportunity to showcase your intellectual curiosity. Discuss recent books, articles, or other readings that have challenged or inspired you. Your reflection should demonstrate not only what you’ve learned but also how these readings have shaped your thinking and perspective.

Writing Responses: 200-word personal goal essay & 500-word academic study essay

Personal Goal Essay 

Reflect on your long-term aspirations and how your time at Cairn—specifically within the Honors Program—will help you achieve those goals. Share both your academic and personal ambitions, describing how the program will foster your growth in areas such as leadership, scholarship, and service.

Academic Study Essay 

Demonstrate how you approach learning by describing a topic of interest that has captivated your attention recently—this could be related to your intended major or another field. Discuss why this topic interests you and how you plan to pursue it further in your academic journey.

References: two letters of recommendation

References should come from individuals who can speak to your academic ability, intellectual curiosity, and character. Recommendations from pastors, teachers (especially Honors or AP teachers), coaches, or other mentors are especially valuable.

Writing samples: submit 2 research papers completed during high school coursework

Select essays that highlight your intellectual curiosity and demonstrate your ability to conduct scholarly research. Essays written for a high school English or History course often work well, especially if they include research sourced from academic literature, peer-reviewed journals, or primary sources, exemplify your ability to develop an academic argument, and demonstrate proper citation use.