Your Own Epic Quest: How Your College Journey Mirrors Classic Literary Adventures
Ever wondered what you have in common with Odysseus, Dante, Alice in Wonderland, and other literary icons? Let’s dive into the fascinating parallels between their epic journeys and your own quest through college admissions!
When I started my undergraduate studies, literature became a central part of my academic journey. So, when I found out that my favorite professor was offering a course called "Seeking Adventure, Treasure, or Protection: Great Literary Quests from Homer to Toni Morrison" this past spring, I knew I had to enroll!
Dr. Barsky described the course as follows:
"World literature is brimming with characters who set out in search of new horizons or fresh starts, driven by boredom, desperation, or the quest for enlightenment. In this course, we’ll accompany some of the most memorable literary characters ever created— from Odysseus and Dante to Dracula and Scrooge—and delve into their motivations for embarking on their journeys. Our quest will take us through vast realms of social justice, migration, and pure wanderlust, rekindling both the excitement and perils of exploring new worlds."
As I read and reread these texts about questing, I couldn’t help but see parallels between my life and the characters in these novels. Here’s how their journeys relate to ours:
1. A Catalyst
For each of these literary figures, there’s a pivotal moment that sparks their adventure:
Dante is driven by his longing to reunite with his true love, Beatrice.
Odysseus yearns to return home to his family after the long war.
Don Quixote sets out to spread chivalry across Spain.
Alice ventures into Wonderland out of sheer boredom.
For you and me, our catalyst is reaching an age of exploration and freedom, marked by graduation.
2. A Companion/Guide
Every quest features companions who guide and influence the hero’s journey:
Virgil guides Dante through purgatory to heaven.
Athena uses her divine powers to help Odysseus return home.
Pancho accompanies Don Quixote on his adventures.
Alice meets various quirky characters in Wonderland.
Similarly, your parents and teachers act as your motivators, cheering you on as you prepare for your college quest.
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3. Encountering Obstacles
No quest is complete without its share of challenges:
Dante faces numerous trials as he journeys through the afterlife.
Odysseus battles the Cyclops, gets trapped on Calypso’s island, and much more.
Don Quixote mistakenly fights windmills he sees as giants.
Alice navigates a series of bizarre and confusing encounters in Wonderland.
Your college journey will come with its own set of obstacles—whether it’s retaking the ACT/SAT, studying tirelessly for AP exams, or dealing with rejection letters from top schools. These challenges are part of what makes your journey unique. Embrace them, knowing you’ll emerge stronger on the other side.
4. Enlightenment/Completion
The beauty of classic literature is how it often concludes with a sense of completion:
Dante finally meets Beatrice.
Odysseus is reunited with his family.
Don Quixote feels he has achieved his goal of spreading chivalary throughout Spain.
Alice escapes the bewildering Wonderland.
For you, the journey culminates with graduation, a ceremony celebrating all you’ve accomplished and a gateway to new adventures. Your quest to college may be ending, but many new quests await: navigating college life, pursuing your future career, and much more.
So, what can we learn from the classics?
Classics endure because they capture universal aspects of the human experience. As you navigate the college admissions process, remember:
Read often and stay engaged with the world around you.
Accept and work through challenges as they come.
Reflect on your journey and appreciate all you’ve achieved for yourself or your child.
Embrace the journey with the same courage and determination as these literary heroes.
At CC.us, we understand that navigating the college admissions process can be as daunting as any epic quest. That’s why we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our comprehensive program is designed to simplify your path and reduce stress, ensuring you and your child are well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Ready to start your adventure with confidence? Schedule a call with us today to learn how our tailored resources and expert guidance can help make your college application process as smooth and successful as possible!
Best of luck,
Melina Kazanas
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