2007 English Essay Contest
The Gold Prize Winner’s Remarks (High School Division)

Oh, My Goodness!

Chae Ree (Sungduk High School)

    This was the first thing that came to my mind when I heard the news. I could not believe I won a prize in the CNU English essay contest. Ten days ago, I was in front of the computer trying really hard to write an English essay. Not just an essay, but something that should be longer than 1,000 words. It seemed impossible to finish. One of the most difficult parts was that many big words that I have studied in school did not come to me! It was quite difficult to find the right expressions and words that I wanted for each sentence. I even thought of deleting some sentences. By the time I recognized I only had twenty minutes left to submit the essay, I almost panicked and chose my finishing words as carefully as possible. But, even at that moment, never did I ever think that I would win a prize.
    Because I was born in Korea and English is not my first language, I am not used to writing in English. In fact, there is no need to write in English unless I have to turn in some assignments for school classes. That is why this experience means a lot to me. Through this experience, I have gain confidence in my English ability. I hope more and more people will be interested in this contest and participate in the future.
   Last but not least, I would like to thank God and thank my mom for introducing this wonderful chance of participating in the English essay contest to me.