what is a profile essay examples

Profile Essay

Let’s take a look at a profile essay. In order to understand what it means, you may allow yourself to engage in an interview where you are able to read a person’s autobiography . As you go long into this article, you will be able to know more about what a profile essay is and how to write a good profile essay.

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10+ Profile Essay Examples

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What is a Profile Essay?

A profile essay is a form of literary writing that tells about a person, place or event. This is intended to provide a detailed profile of something that offers every reader to make a certain perspective or judgment over a subject. This is different from a descriptive essay. It does not only entails description of a subject, rather it is designed to answer questions to identify something.

How to Start Writing a Profile Essay?

Step 1: get the right information.

Doing research is the most important thing to do before you begin writing your research profile. This will help you get a detailed information about your subject. Always make sure that you are using trusted sources like library materials, online articles, etc.

Step 2: Validate Your Information

Check the release date of an article as well as have comprehensive the contents are. Avoid getting information from outdated sources.

Step 3: Outline Your Essay

Always prepare with you a profile essay outline. Essay outlines help in making it easier for you to pinpoint the first idea and what should follow next. This will help you organize your gathered data appropriately.

Step 4: Revise or Proofread Your Profile Essay

Once you have followed the three steps meticulously, you are also well aware that you will need to revise anything that needs to be revised. This includes proofreading any mistakes you may have made throughout. In order to present a good profile essay, you must also make sure it is presentable. No erasures and no mistakes as much as possible.

Do we still have to apply writing style in making a profile essay?

It is advisable to practice yourself to pay attention with the tone and style of your essay. This will make your piece engaging and interesting to read.

What is the purpose of making a profile essay?

The purpose of an essay is to give the readers a full description of your chosen topic. Aside from that, it is also for you to be able to express something about the subject, may it be an argument in response to a certain issue or question and on what you have learned about it. You may also use an essay to persuade your readers that your stand is reasonable.

What to do when picking for the right title of your essay?

Think about what you want to make in your essay. You should reflect on the main idea of your essay. Make it as the basis of creating a unique title for your piece.

What are some things to consider when choosing a subject for profile essay?

You should always choose a reasonable subject and don’t forget to research something about it.

What are the elements of a profile essay?

The elements of a profile essay starts with the introduction paragraph , followed by the body of the paragraph, and ends with the conclusion paragraph .

Before we are able to learn how to do  essay writing , we always seek for mastery  skills  in it. We all know that an essay is composed of the three basic parts namely the introduction, body paragraph, and the conclusion. You may see examples from different essays like  argumentative essay ,  informative essay ,  career essay  and more.

Profile Essay Generator

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Write a Profile Essay on a community leader who has made a difference in your area.

Discuss the achievements and challenges of a local entrepreneur in your Profile Essay.

How to Write a Profile Essay

• Posted 21 November 2020
• By StudySaurus
• Under Essay Writing
• Discover a remarkable subject to write a profile essay about. The person can be well-known or somewhat ordinary. The subject is not limited to an individual but can be a location, leisure interest, or occupation. Expand your search beyond the computer and your neighborhood. Do primary source research on the subject to acquire background information. Go to the library and view back issues of local or regional newspapers and other rags or scan online sources.
• Develop a loose outline based on the subject of your essay. Jot down the header, “Introduction.” Start listing possible details that will be disclosed later from interviews. Title another header as “Body” and note high points that will become the possible climax of the essay. Tie it all up in the “Conclusion” header and brainstorm solid ending possibilities.
• Compose a list of specific interview questions. They should be open-ended but specific and relevant to your essay. Questions should draw out information not commonly known about the person. Make a list of possible interviewees to broaden the narrative for a multifaceted profile. This includes others in his or her circle or individuals linked to a location or activity.
• Conduct the interview in a distraction-free zone. Establish a rapport early on to make the interviewee feel comfortable, which will churn out a more productive interview. Lay down a basic groundwork of what topics will be covered, the length of time needed, and the importance of the interview. Next, advance to the main interview. Be sure to take meticulous notes or get permission to tape the interview to transcribe later.
• Jot down any observations immediately following the interview. Consider the individual’s habits, attitude, and other qualities that were observed. Transcribe and rearrange the interview questions to recount an interesting personal perspective or interpretation. This will become your rough draft.
• Revise the draft, incorporating important details and factual incidents that were initially missed. Start with an attention-grabbing lead sentence. Ensure that the beginning grabs the reader and pulls him in. Intrigue your audience with an informative main section. Stay focused on your intended approach until the essay’s conclusion, which should give readers a closing impression of the subject and summarize your overall objective.
• Read the essay aloud. Did you give a visual portrayal? Check that you interweaved dialogue, added physical descriptions in moderation, but used narrative freely.

Tips to Write a Profile Essay

A profile essay vividly presents a subject to the readers. The writing is a combination of objective and expressive: While presenting his observations and analysis to inform the reader, the writer also brings his own personal perspective and interpretations to the essay. A profile essay differs from biographical and autobiographical writing in that it takes newly acquired observation, through research or firsthand accounts; an autobiography or biography is about remembered experiences. The challenge of a profile essay is to gather the information and give it shape in an essay that conveys a main idea; there are several guidelines to aid a writer in doing this.

Choose the Subject Wisely

While profiles of exciting, controversial people are always interesting, even the mundane can be intriguing if the writer examines it closely and offers a distinctive perspective. A writer shouldn’t overlook the quietly remarkable person who seems ordinary on the outside.

Form an Engaging and Informative Plan

A profile essay will most likely be based on at least one interview with the subject, and may also include interviews with those that know the subject. Writers should resist the temptation to organize the essay in the order they ask the questions, as this can make for boring reading. Instead, the answers of the questions should be examined closely for an emerging image of the subject. The responses can then be incorporated into a more complex picture of the subject.

Provide a Vivid Description

A quality profile essay should incorporate a vivid word picture of the subject. Include specific details, such as how the subject looks, talks, dresses, smells and is motivated. Keep straight description, or just cataloging the obvious, to a minimum; instead, use description to give the sense that the subject’s outward appearance reveals inward character traits. Information from others in the essay should serve to describe the subject and not take on its own life.

Convey a Dominant Impression

A profile essay should convey a dominant impression of the subject: the writer’s personal interpretation and insight on the subject and what the writer has gained from observing and researching. Carefully select and arrange details so that they communicate your attitude. This interpretive element is what categorizes the profile essay as a genre and separates it from other forms of narrative and descriptive writing, such as the biography.

Profile Paper Example

“Good evening, Valparaiso. I’m storm shield meteorologist Jacob Van Horn here with a look at your forecast.” Ever since Jake was in grade school, he knew that he wanted to be a meteorologist. However, it wasn’t until high school that he realized his dream could truly become reality. Jake’s interest in weather began when he first watched the movie “Twister,” a collection of National Geographic documentaries provided by his school. With an abundance of hard work and dedication, Jake is working towards earning his bachelor’s degree in meteorology and achieving his dream of becoming a meteorologist.

Since Jake has always been an admirer of the weather, severe storms always brought him a thrill. His interest in weather peaked after an F-4 tornado struck a city near his home in November of 2002. His family drove through Van Wert, Ohio, to see the damage. “Those images will always be in my head,” he recalls.

Although Jake always knew that he wanted to become a meteorologist, it was not until high school when he recognized his full potential. He realized how good he was at science and math and how much he enjoyed each of these subjects. Math and science are a crucial part of meteorology; therefore, Jake decided to “give it a go.”

When it came to deciding upon a college to pursue his meteorology degree, Jake was torn between Purdue University and Valparaiso University. Both schools possessed a great meteorology program, but Jake was drawn to Valparaiso’s small school atmosphere and location. Although Valparaiso was a private university with higher tuition than Purdue, Jake received a presidential scholarship, which aided in paying for his tuition. Getting accepted into a college with an outstanding meteorology program brought Jake one step closer to achieving his dream.

Once college started, there were a broad range of meteorology classes that he had to take. They started as simple, introductory classes and progressed into much more specific classes, such as an aviation weather class to predict things such as turbulence and a tropical class, which not only focuses on hurricanes and tropical storms, but the impact of the ocean on the weather in general. These classes will be beneficial to his future career choice. A meteorologist’s job can be described as making a type of educated prediction. Jake will use what he has learned in his classes, apply that broad knowledge to whatever is happening in the forecast, look at where the weather is coming from, and predict what he believes will happen.

The summer between his freshman and sophomore years of college, Jake was an intern at a local news station, WANE 15. While at his internship, he often assisted the head meteorologist in creating graphics that were used on television. He liked using the graphics system to see what he could create and he also liked communicating to the people about what was going to be happening. Jake said that he was able to learn an abundance of new things that will be useful in his future endeavors. One night, during a large tornado outbreak, he stayed at the station until around 2AM, keeping the viewing areas informed about the potentially dangerous weather conditions. He said that it “was definitely a crazy night.”

When he returned back to campus his sophomore year, Jake was a lab aide for an introductory class, which helps to refresh students on the basics of meteorology. He was also an assistant weather director at the campus television station, which is helping him learn about the broadcasting side of meteorology. He has learned everything from production to graphic-making and even presentation skills on the green screen. Although he did not think he would like being on television, before he began classes, Jake has learned many skills that have opened his mind to the world of broadcasting.

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How to Write a Profile Essay: Comprehensive Guide

Table of contents

• 1 What is a Profile Essay?
• 2 The Purpose of a Profile Essay
• 3 Difference Between Profile Papers and Other Essays
• 4.1 Introduction
• 4.2 Body Paragraphs
• 4.3 Conclusion
• 5 Tips to Write an Outstanding Profile Essay
• 6.1.1 Early Childhood
• 6.1.2 Olympic Fame
• 6.1.3 Fighting for a Social Cause

Over their high school and college years, students have to write various essays on different subject matters. While some are narrative and literary, others are more technical and detail-oriented. However, be they persuasive, expository, or argumentative, papers follow specific rules of academic writing.

Among other types, profile essays are some of the most common that professors assign. These assignments come in almost all disciplines, so it’s vital to understand the basics of the writing process.

What is a profile essay, and what features does it cover? Why is it critical to observe and discuss various individuals, events, or places? How do these literary works differ from other essay types ?

This guide will help you grasp the fundamentals of profile essay writing and deconstruct its content with a clear overview of what each part contains. It will also highlight essential hacks you should consider when writing, plus a qualitative example.

What is a Profile Essay?

In short, writing profile essays focuses on a narrow-scoped description of a famous individual, location, event, or activity. Your work should profile the topic you selected and provide qualitative information about the importance of the subject. Therefore, the writer must present vivid descriptions and thorough explanations through various methods.

You may choose to interview your subject to collect the necessary data. Alternatively, you can survey or research the topic to gather relevant insight if the person you’re discussing died. Observing a fair or visiting a town and then writing about it is also viable. Another unusual aspect of a profile assignment is that you can include objective facts and subjective or interpreted ideas.

In most cases, the essay will be factual. It will introduce valid and relevant questions and answers. For example, you may write about a distinguished USA president, civil rights activist, or athlete. Similarly, you can depict an ancient city, historical landmark, or high-rated festival. Last, consider dedicating your work to a local business, musical performance, or community service project.

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The Purpose of a Profile Essay

This essay type aims to offer the audience a comprehensive perspective of a particular topic and help them understand the concept. Hence, all data must be well-structured and presentable not to confuse the reader and raise doubts.

Moreover, anyone reading your work must be able to make informed judgments on the theme. In many cases, writing a short essay is a wise idea to portray the case or individual you’re discussing. Besides your writing skills, you will also showcase your organization and presentation abilities.

Difference Between Profile Papers and Other Essays

Most importantly, writing a profile essay will rely on valid and accurate facts. In short, focus on using first-hand information by conducting an interview, survey, or personal observation and involvement. Presenting amusing and authentic ideas will urge your target audience to enjoy your piece.

Unlike other essay types, these avoid using a secondary source. For instance, while writing a good opinion essay will involve your standpoints on a topic, the profile paper will concentrate on genuine insight supported by evidence. However, biographies and studies written by others are helpful when verifying the facts you collected yourself.

Overall, finding secondary sources is less demanding and time-consuming than establishing your pool of bibliographical information. Still, primary materials are ideal for writing a profile essay. Also, you must draft it in the third person to maintain an unbiased perspective of your subject.

Comprehensive Profile Essay Structure

You probably wonder how to start a profile essay and keep your thoughts and ideas streamlined and concise. And while you can find online essay help , we prepared a detailed overview of the layout you should follow. Here are the roles of each part.

Introduction

Undoubtedly, the first section of your work will be the opening which typically consists of a single segment. Its primary role is to lay the foundations of the subject and hook the readers to explore until the end. Hence, share intriguing background details such as a quote or anecdote.

Moreover, the excellent thesis statement must reflect the subject you will write about later in your manuscript. It should be well-thought and concise. The introductory part shouldn’t exceed 15% of the entire essay length. Also, ensure you avoid in-text citations except to begin the introduction with a direct quotation.

Body Paragraphs

This part presents the main idea and answers the most important interview questions. It is also the most substantial segment in terms of word count. According to the PapersOwl writing service , the body section should consist of at least two paragraphs. The number of paragraphs will depend on the distinct points the essay writers plan to cover.

Also, there is no specific length for body paragraphs , but you should avoid walls of text. Another guideline for a successful piece is to write at least four sentences in each body segment.

The closing paragraph offers a concise overview of the body paragraphs. It will focus on restating your thesis statement in a final attempt to emphasize the role and value of the selected subject.

The ending should also revisit the topic sentences and demonstrate the impact on our society. Therefore, don’t write about something not mentioned before. This section takes about 10% of the total word count and can contain an in-text citation as a call to action.

Tips to Write an Outstanding Profile Essay

Below, we share a thorough list of advice to teach you how to write a profile essay worth your professor’s attention.

• Read a few essays. You can look for quality articles in popular magazines that regularly publish interviews. A narrative essay might also prove helpful if you need to adjust your tone and language.
• Ensure the subject of interest is easy to reach. If you get stuck with an unreachable goal, PapersOwl can write your essay for money in the shortest timeframe possible.
• Study the topic by analyzing the background of your subject and focus on what makes their lives so unique. If it’s a place or activity, learn about its past and future.
• The most impactful way is to write in simple language. Steer away from jargon or idiomatic phrases to avoid misunderstandings, particularly in the thesis.
• Use vivid adjectives and transitions to convey your central point.
• Each body paragraph shouldn’t exceed 150 words.
• Keep your facts in check and avoid sharing your personal opinion unless based on authentic data.
• Engage all senses by visualizing events, telling jokes, or describing sounds.
• Follow a pre-defined structure where each body paragraph tackles a different point.
• Proofread your work for grammar errors and typos.
• Run your essay through an online plagiarism checker to avoid copied content.
• Ensure your ideas are concise and clear and split run-on sentences.

Crafting a profile essay requires an in-depth understanding of the chosen topic, whether it’s a person, place, or thing. The writer must be able to convey clear and engaging information that fully describes and explains the subject. It’s essential to have a writing style that can capture the reader’s interest and keep them engaged throughout the essay. To make the process easier, working with a quick essay writer can be helpful, as they can provide the necessary expertise and experience to create a high-quality profile essay that stands out.

Your Qualitative Profile Essay Example

The best approach is to go with the standard 5-paragraph structure. Here’s an excellent profile sample.

The Incredible Story of Wilma Rudolf

“My doctors told me I would never walk again. My mother told me I would. I believed my mother.” This famous quote by Wilma Rudolph, an African American athlete, tells tales about her life journey. She made history in the Olympic Games in Rome, becoming the first American woman to win three gold medals and break three world records. Her life, full of obstacles and hardship, took her to the throne of athletics and the heart of burning social issues.

Early Childhood

Born on June 23, 1940, in Tennessee, Wilma had 21 siblings. While she had the support and care from her extended family, it was challenging for the family to make ends meet. Things worsened when Rudolph contracted polio, double pneumonia, and scarlet fever. Though she survived the severe bouts, her illness left her paralyzed, and Wilma had to wear a leg brace. The doctor’s prognosis was grim, but with her family’s help, Rudolph started to hop on one leg in two years. Soon, she began to move, and by 12, Vilma regained her walking ability and took up basketball. She soon proved a natural athlete, challenging every boy in the neighborhood at running.

Olympic Fame

The Olympic Games were a pipe dream to young Rudolph. Yet, she caught steam and never lost a race in all high school track meets. At 16, Vilma brought a bronze medal from the Summer Olympics in Melbourne. In 1960 she participated in the Olympic Games in Rome, Italy, and won three gold medals. A striking fact about this triple victory is that in the 100 and 200-meter dashes, Wilma finished three yards before the closest contestant. In addition, her relay team won the 400-meter race thanks to her exceptional performance. Vilma attracted the world’s attention; the crowds cheered her and called her “La Gazelle.” However, she decided not to participate in the next Olympic Games, fearing that she won’t duplicate her success.

Fighting for a Social Cause

Rudolph dedicated the rest of her life to teaching the lessons she learned the hard way. She was particularly keen on coaching underprivileged children. Wilma even wrote her autobiography and worked in several community sports centers. She also gave numerous motivational speeches and founded the Wilma Rudolph Foundation to promote amateur athletics. Wilma died in 1994 of a brain tumor. Survived by two daughters and two sons, Rudolph has left a remarkable inspirational legacy.

Wilma played a critical role in the way we see sports today. Her poor health as a child instilled the “never give up” attitude in her mindset. Learning to overcome fear and weakness gave Rudolph the courage to aim high. Vilma’s personality proves that a strong will and perseverance can take you to stardom.

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How to Write a Stellar Profile Essay?

09 February, 2021

13 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

A profile essay, or article, is a piece of journalistic-cum-literary writing. The aim is to present factual information on a given topic (person, place, animal, or event) while writing with an individual tone and style. In this article, we will expand on the concept of a profile essay. We will also tackle what a profile is and what purpose profiles serve. Finally, we will present strategies for preparing your research and strengthening your writing technique, as well as offer tips on structure and potential topics.

What Is a Profile Essay?

A profile essay can be considered a literary piece of writing, in which the writer mainly delivers a descriptive account of a person, place, or event. The goal of the profile essay is to be informative. It usually conforms to standards found in journalism – that is to say, using facts and offering impartial reportage – while conveying this information in a literary style.

Literary style means offering more to the reader than a revised press release or stenographed interview. Offer insight and immersion to the reader, show them the layers of character and environment, and run these underlying factual happenings through your individual interpretation of it all. 

The Purpose of Profile Essays

The purpose of a profile essay is to be read and well-received by an audience. It is not an obscure technical writing piece, although it may cover obscure figures or events. In general, profile essays appear in magazines and newspapers – in either their print or digital formats. They also appear in scholarly or trade journals, usually covering rising or established people within these niches.

For the writer, a profile essay is a piece of writing aimed at joining the journalistic and literary style. As mentioned in the previous section, journalistic writing must be factual and rigorously checked for errors. Literary writing has some joy involved in its reading; in what way that joy comes out in ‘writing style’ is up to you.

Ultimately, with those two concepts in mind, the purpose of a profile essay is to get you, the writer, some more work. Profiles are highly prevalent and serve as a fantastic way of adding more pieces to your portfolio, whether you’re a new essay writer or a seasoned pro.

Prepare for your essay

Preparing for a profile depends on how close you are to starting writing. Writers coming to this article with a stretch of time ahead of them have the luxury of doing some background reading that is not directly related to the matter at hand. Finding a good profile essay example has the hidden benefit of looking like a lazy weekend afternoon; get a stack of magazines and read.

Some of the most common places to find quality profiles are The New Yorker, The New York Review of Books, the London Review of Books, Esquire, or National Geographic. Another perspective is to look for writers, head to your bookshelf or local book store, and do some digging. Again, read and make some notes on the qualities you enjoy and dislike in a range of profiles.

Lastly, in terms of reading, examine the differences between an essay or article profiling a person and one that profiles an event.

That form of preparation is more akin to education. It is needed to bolster your understanding of the broad picture and what is essentially the marketplace for your piece of work. 

Preparing for your actual essay, not the skill of writing an ambiguous profile essay, is another matter. The research and reading that are highly relevant to your subject matter will make or break your profile essay. 

To begin with, you must find all profiles of your subject that are in existence and don’t require a transatlantic flight to a dusty library archive – in this instance, simply email the library and ask if they’ve considered digitizing their collection, starting with your desired piece. 

One of the most surefire organization tactics for research is timelining. Start at the beginning; be sure to go into ‘negative digits’ and look at the parent’s history or the town’s history, or anything else that emerges in your research.

After ‘time’ as a category of thinking comes ‘significance.’ What were the defining features of this person’s life, and to what sort of ‘movement’ might they belong? Add this into your timeline research and press on.

Have you selected a person or place that is feasible to contact and ask for a quote or interview? You may also want to reach out to other players in the story you’re telling and see what they have to say on things.

Preparing all this research can get messy and cluttered. The best way to solve this problem is to  follow a system from the start, as mentioned above; time is a great organizer. Also, keep a running bibliography in a separate file on your computer. Keep tabs on everything you’ve read, and be as forensic as possible with maintaining records. Who knows what might happen in the future regarding the focus of your essay? They might run for president, or they might fade into obscurity. 

Profile Essay Outline

As a profile essay combines qualities of journalism and literary writing, the ideal outline doesn’t exist. Literary writing can take the reader on a journey; in fact, the only requirement of the structure is to guide this journey as magnificently as possible.

Were we to suggest a general profile essay outline, it would contain these sections and ingredients. The order is flexible to an extent. It depends on the content of your profile. Have you got an interview to draw upon, or are you using your storytelling powers to deduct and infer from other sources?

In your introduction, if you’ve conducted an interview, use a quote for your lede. A good quote is an excellent way to set the tone and give an impression of your subject to the reader. Those without an interview might consider a bold statement; be sure that you use something here to act as a powerful lede and bring the reader on board. 

Alluring mysteries are one thing; though the crunch point for this gambit is to make the pay-off worthwhile. Else, the cliff-edge and the tension you create will be for nothing in the end. 

There will be time to provide things like background and biography in the main body of a profile essay. These tend to follow the lede as they’re a nice cool-down; they give the reader a chance to build knowledge on an obscure topic. Whereas for the writer, both the background and biography offer an opportunity to peg in some facts, figures, and breadcrumbs to draw upon later.

The body of a profile essay is tricky. You, first of all, need to engagingly tell your readers the story in it. Remember to build tension and really ‘let go’ when it comes to releasing that tension. Tell it to a friend, read it aloud. Move around the paragraphs. Remember that the profile is following an arc and in your conclusions, hook back in the initial qualities of the opening part. This technique is like cadence in music, and it will please your audience as long as it isn’t too trite. 

Profile Essay Topics

A suitable subject or topic depends on your qualities as a writer and the desired outcome of writing such a profile essay. Now, it does not have to include an interview, but many profile essays do include them. Some profile essay topics may be inanimate objects or complex emergences of human life (events). If this is the case, you can still interview 

For interviews, considering you’re likely a lowly reporter on a college paper, getting an interview with a high-flying sportsperson, politician, or musician is unlikely. In any event, the lower-flying specimens of these species could make a good target. 

The most important thing to consider when choosing the topic or subject is to work with your gut and instinct. If you’re interested in the story, you’re going to have much more to put into it, and your excitement and verve will show through in writing. It may also make it easier to stomach the long hours of tedious research that can emerge when trying to prove or disprove an obscurity of some kind. 

If you haven’t decided on the topic, there’s still room for maneuver. You can look at the subject matter and present your perspective on the case; that’s the subjective element of a profile, your view.

This perspective of yours can focus on just one specific aspect of a person or event. By removing the duller or more well-trodden elements of a character, you open up the chance to explore a new side of a topic. It’s also a fantastic skill for writers to be able to recap well-known things or facts quickly. Writing in this style for a very general audience should be a skill in any writer’s arsenal. 

Profile Essay Examples 

Properly digesting the advice and points made in this article can be aided by reading some profile essay examples. Look for examples given out in your class, or search around using the main keyword – profile essay examples. 

Here are a few examples for you to get a catch on how to write profile essays excellently:

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/profiles

https://longreads.com/2019/12/17/longreads-best-of-2019-profiles/

https://longreads.com/2017/12/18/longreads-best-of-2017-profile-writing/

Writing Tips for a Profile Essay

How to write a profile essay in three steps; pick a subject, do your research, and start writing. Remember that a profile essay is a literary and a journalistic piece of writing. It’s non-fiction, so your facts and figures must be accurate, and any discrepancies or controversies surrounding your data can form a part of your analysis.

Always write with your reader at the forefront of your mind. Visualize your reader, even if it’s a college essay, and think of how you could pitch your piece to a publication. The natural home of a profile is in the media, not in the college textbook. So write the essay with publication in mind. 

 Here are some essential tips for a profile essay composition:

• Conduct thorough research on your topic, look for potential interviews or aspects not covered in previous profiles if they exist. Also, make sure you’ve read all of the profiles on or related to your subject matter; a profile is an evolving topic, and new facts can emerge.
• Profile examples are available online, as well as those posted by educational institutes, and of course, those featured in the media. Reading these serves as excellent preparation and inspiration.
• The structure and overall outline of a profile essay is something with a degree of flexibility. While the introduction and rounding off of the essay will look familiar, tracking a person’s profile or event can involve highly unique pieces of information. Unlike many other papers, profiles don’t have to strictly conform to the thesis, antithesis, and synthesis structure. However, this familiar form of writing still works in part when writing a profile. 

Write a Profile Essay with HandmadeWriting

HandmadeWriting can help with the development, construction, and polishing of a profile essay. As an organization, we draw on academics and writers’ expertise from across the spectrum of the written word. 

Getting started can be difficult, but consulting with HandmadeWriting offers a way to get the ball rolling. The writers at HandmadeWriting are used to working on a countless number of topics and essay styles. The staff is also familiar with working under a tight deadline, not to mention those tasks where the endpoint is less defined. 

HandmadeWriting makes composing an essay or profile piece simple. Talk with a skilled writer and editor today on your topic, and you can make a start immediately.

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How To Write A Profile Essay Like A Professional Writer

Welcome to our blog, where we embark on a journey to master the art of writing profiles essays. Whether you’re a high school or college student, understanding the critical components of a profile essay is essential for academic success. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the definition of a profile essay and provide practical tips, example of a profile essay, and expert advice to help you excel in this form of writing.

A profile essay is a captivating narrative that enables students to explore the lives and experiences of individuals. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, these essays offer readers a glimpse into the unique qualities and perspectives of the profiled subjects. By mastering the fundamentals of this writing style, you can effectively communicate your observations and insights, creating compelling and informative profiles.

In our blog, we will discuss the essential elements of a profile essay and emphasize the importance of high-quality writing and the benefits of expert guidance. Whether you’re a student aiming to improve your writing skills or a teacher seeking to enhance your students’ abilities, this guide is designed to provide you with the necessary tools and techniques to create exceptional profiles.

Join us on this enriching journey, where we share valuable knowledge, practical profile essay examples, and insider tips, empowering you to produce outstanding profile essays. Let’s unlock the secrets of this unique form of writing and achieve fast, awesome results together.

Table of Contents

What is a profile essay, how to start a profile essay, profile essay structure guides, key considerations for writing engaging profile essays, crafting an outstanding profile essay: essential tips, profile essays in academic settings.

A profile essay is not just a collection of facts and figures; it is a powerful literary piece that delves deep into the essence of a person, place, or event. This form of writing goes beyond surface-level descriptions to create a vivid and engaging portrayal that captivates readers emotionally.

When crafting a profile essay outline, the writer aims to explore a specific individual’s life, personality, experiences, achievements, or unique qualities of a place or event. It seeks to paint a comprehensive picture, offering readers a window into the subject’s world and allowing them to connect with it on a deeper level.

A well-written profile essay immerses the reader in the subject’s experiences, thoughts, and emotions by employing descriptive language, storytelling techniques, and insightful observations. It evokes empathy and understanding, enabling readers to forge a connection and gain a deeper appreciation for the person, place, or event being portrayed.

In summary, a profile essay is a literary work that aims to go beyond superficial details and statistics. It is a means of conveying the essence of a subject through engaging storytelling, providing readers with a rich and immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact.

The beginning of a profile essay is vital in capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of the piece. It requires careful consideration and strategic planning to ensure a strong start. Here are a few practical ways how to write a good profile essay:

• Look for unique qualities: Seek out subjects with unique backgrounds, experiences, or achievements. These aspects can add depth and intrigue to your profile essay.
• Consider relevance: Choose a subject relevant to your intended audience or the purpose of the assignment. This will help create a stronger connection and interest among your readers.
• Interview your subject: Reach out to the individual you are profiling and request an interview. Prepare a thoughtful question list about their life, experiences, and perspectives. These interviews will provide invaluable insights and personal anecdotes that can enhance the depth of your essay.
• Read articles and books: Explore articles, books, and other publications related to your subject. This will provide a broader context and enable you to include relevant background information in your profile essay.
• Explore online sources: Utilize reputable online sources such as websites, blogs, and academic databases to gather additional information and perspectives on your subject. Be critical of your authorities and ensure they are credible and reliable.
• Be concise and specific: State your main argument or the central theme of your profile essay clearly and concisely.
• Make it captivating: Use language that captures the reader’s attention and creates intrigue. A compelling thesis statement will generate interest and encourage readers to continue reading.
• Provide a roadmap: Your thesis statement should act as a roadmap for your essay, indicating the main points or areas of focus you will cover. This helps readers understand the structure and flow of your essay.

Starting a profile essay requires careful consideration of the subject, thorough research, and a well-crafted thesis statement. Choosing an intriguing topic, conducting a comprehensive analysis, and formulating a solid thesis statement can captivate your readers and set the stage for a compelling and informative profile essay. Remember, the start of your essay sets the tone for the entire piece, so invest time and effort into crafting a high quality and strong opening that engages and intrigues your readers.

Writing a profile essay requires a structured approach combining storytelling and factual information. Follow these steps to create a well-crafted profile essay:

• Introduction: Begin your essay with a compelling opening sentence that hooks the reader. Provide some background information about the subject and introduce the main thesis statement.
• Body Paragraphs: Divide your essay into multiple paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect or theme related to the topic. Use a mix of narrative storytelling and factual information to engage the reader. Include anecdotes, quotes, and descriptions to bring your subject to life.
• Organization and Flow: Ensure a logical progression from one paragraph to another. Use transitional phrases to maintain the coherence of your essay. Consider arranging your sections thematically or chronologically, depending on what suits your subject best.
• Descriptive Language: Incorporate vivid and descriptive language to create a sensory experience for the reader. Use specific details and imagery to make your subject come alive.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points discussed in your essay and leave the reader with a lasting impression. Reflect on the significance of your topic and its impact on the reader.

A profile essay offers a comprehensive portrayal of a person or place, providing readers with a detailed understanding of the subject. Whether it’s about a place or a person, crafting an engaging profile essay requires careful planning and effective storytelling. Here are some key steps to consider:

How to Write a Profile Essay on a Place:

Choose an intriguing place: Select a location that is unique and holds significance for the readers. Observe and research: Immerse yourself in the place, exploring its history, culture, and physical aspects. Structure your essay: Begin with an engaging introduction, describe the place vividly, and provide personal insights. Incorporate sensory details: Utilize descriptive language to appeal to the readers’ senses. Conclude with a reflection: Share your overall impression and highlight the significance of the place.

How to Write a Profile Essay on a Person:

Select a captivating individual: Find someone with an interesting background, achievements, or experiences. Conduct interviews: Engage in in-depth conversations to gather firsthand information about the person. Organize your essay: Begin with an attention-grabbing introduction, present the person’s background and accomplishments, and delve into their personality traits and influences. Use anecdotes and examples: Illustrate the person’s characteristics through real-life stories and specific instances. Wrap up with a reflection: Offer your personal insights, reflect on the person’s impact, and conclude with a memorable ending.

Remember, in both types of profile essays, it is crucial to maintain a balanced blend of factual information and compelling storytelling to engage readers and leave a lasting impression.

When writing a profile essay, it’s essential to remember key elements that will enhance the quality of your work. Here are some essential tips to help you craft an outstanding profile essay:

• Choose an Engaging Format: While there is no strict format for a profile essay, you can structure it to suit your subject and the narrative you want to create. You can opt for a chronological structure, a thematic approach, or a combination of both.
• Conduct Thorough Interviews: Interviews are crucial in gathering firsthand information about your subject. Prepare a list of relevant questions and conduct interviews with the subject and individuals associated with them. These interviews will enrich your profile essay with unique insights and personal anecdotes.
• Focus on Descriptive Details: Pay attention to descriptive details to bring your subject to life. Use sensory language to create a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. Describe the subject’s appearance, gestures, and mannerisms. Include details about the environment, sounds, and smells to transport the reader to the scene.
• Utilize Direct Quotes: Direct quotes from your subject and others you interview add authenticity and credibility to your profile essay. Use quotes to highlight important points or capture the subject’s voice and perspective.
• Show, Don’t Tell: Rather than simply stating facts, show the reader the subject’s personality, values, and experiences through storytelling. Engage the reader’s emotions by narrating impactful moments or sharing significant events that shaped the subject’s life.
• Revise and Edit: Once you have completed your profile essay’s first draft, revise and edit it. Check for clarity, coherence, and grammar errors. Trim unnecessary information and ensure a smooth flow of ideas. Consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors to gain valuable insights.

Profile essays are commonly assigned in various academic settings, including high school, college, and university. These assignments allow students to develop their research, writing, and storytelling skills while exploring diverse subjects and honing their analytical thinking.

Following Guidelines:

When working on a profile essay for school or college, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided by your instructor. This ensures that you stay on track and meet the assignment requirements. Consider the following points:

• Pay attention to specific requirements: Your instructor may provide instructions regarding length, formatting, citation style, and other essential details. Make sure to adhere to these guidelines to avoid any penalties.
• Understand the objectives: Familiarize yourself with the purposes of the assignment. This will help you shape your essay and focus on the key aspects your instructor wants you to explore.
• Align with learning outcomes: Consider how the profile essay fits into the broader learning outcomes of the course. This will enable you to approach the assignment with a clear understanding of its purpose and relevance.

Seeking Assistance:

If you struggle with the assignment or need extra support, online essay assignment help and custom writing services are available. These services offer expert guidance and assistance, ensuring you receive high-quality, well-crafted profile essays that meet your academic requirements. Here are some key points to consider:

• Online homework helpers: These platforms connect you with knowledgeable tutors who can guide and answer your questions about profile essay writing. They can offer valuable insights and help you overcome challenges you may encounter.
• Custom writing services: If you feel overwhelmed or lack time to complete the assignment, custom writing services can be a viable option. These services employ professional writers who can create custom profile essays tailored to your needs and requirements. However, it’s essential to choose a reputable and trustworthy service to ensure the quality and originality of the work.

Profile essays in academic settings offer students a valuable opportunity to develop their research, writing, and storytelling skills. By following the guidelines provided by your instructor and seeking assistance when needed, you can ensure that your profile essays meet the objectives of the assignment and align with the course’s learning outcomes. Remember, practice and persistence are crucial to mastering the art of writing compelling and informative profile essays.

Get Profile Essay Writing Help Today!

Mastering the art of writing a profile essay requires a combination of skill, guidance, and support. By following the guidelines and tips provided by experts, you can create captivating profiles that engage and resonate with your readers. Along the way, it’s essential to seek assistance when needed, and fortunately, there are affordable options available that provide class-leading customer support.

When embarking on the journey of writing a profile essay, remember to choose an intriguing subject and conduct thorough research to ensure the accuracy and depth of your piece. Craft a strong thesis statement that serves as a roadmap for your essay, guiding your readers through the main aspects you’ll be exploring.

In the process, it’s reassuring to know that expert guidance and support are accessible. Whether you require assistance structuring your essay, some college assignment help , or understanding the nuances of profile essay writing, affordable online platforms provide the expertise you need. These platforms offer friendly customer support to address your queries and provide valuable insights, ensuring you receive the guidance necessary to excel in your writing endeavors.

By availing yourself of these resources, you can enhance your profile essay writing skills, boost your confidence, and achieve outstanding results. So, embrace the art of writing profiles backed by expert guidance, affordable options, class-leading support, and friendly assistance. Let your words paint vivid portraits and create lasting connections with your readers through the power of the profile essay.

What is a profile essay, and what is its purpose?

A profile essay is a type of academic or journalistic writing that aims to provide a detailed description and analysis of a particular person, place, event, or organization. Its purpose is to present a comprehensive and engaging portrayal of the subject, highlighting its unique qualities, experiences, and significance.

How do I choose a suitable subject for my profile essay?

When selecting a subject for your profile essay, consider individuals, places, or events that possess distinct characteristics, have a compelling story, or hold relevance in a specific context. It could be a notable figure in your community, a memorable travel destination, or an event with cultural significance. The key is to choose a subject that allows for rich exploration and offers an opportunity to captivate your readers.

What are the essential elements to include in a profile essay?

A profile essay typically includes several key elements to portray the subject comprehensively. These elements may include a vivid and engaging introduction, background information, descriptive details, anecdotes, quotes, and personal observations. It is important to capture the subject’s personality, experiences, and significance through a well-structured narrative that keeps the reader engaged.

How can I ensure the accuracy and credibility of the information in my profile essay?

To maintain accuracy and credibility in your profile essay, conducting thorough research and gathering information from reliable sources is crucial. This can involve interviewing the subject, conducting background research, and seeking multiple perspectives. Always verify the information you gather and cross-reference it with trustworthy sources to ensure the accuracy of your content. Remember to attribute any quotes or specific details to their respective sources.

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Profile essay examples – structure| tips| examples, dr. wilson mn.

• July 25, 2022
• Essay Topics and Ideas , Samples

This article discusses about What is a profle essay and provides 5 best Profile Essay Examples.

It’s common for students in college to have no idea how to write a good profile essay, but this can be avoided by learning to research and making the most of your available resources.

Choosing an interesting topic for a personal profile essay is essential if you want to achieve success. You’ll have plenty to write about if you do this.

People and places you are writing about need to be vividly portrayed in your mind.

What You'll Learn

What is a Profile Essay

A profile essay is an essay written to provide a description of a person, place, concept, or thing. It is a descriptive form of writing that aims at providing as much detail as possible on a particular topic.

In spite of the fact that a profile essay is often mistaken as a biography or autobiography, these other forms of writing are distinct in that they are much shorter in length. There are two types of essays: those that focus on a person’s life story, and those that focus on a specific topic. While a biography can be turned into a book, a profile essay is better suited for bios, profile descriptions, and the like.

Even though a profile essay isn’t as in-depth as a biography, it’s written to convey a lot of information in a short period of time. Journalism students and interviewers can benefit from this because it provides a sufficient amount of time to investigate one specific topic.

Keep in mind the possible questions that may arise when writing a profile essay, and address them. You must have taken note that some blogs usually append a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section to their content, usually at the end of a profile essay.

This gives the reader the required information that they need to understand the topic in question.

Profile Essay Structure

Introduction.

This is the thing that will attract or excuse your crowd. A decent presentation spellbinds the peruser and keeps him snared as far as possible.

Start with basic issues which will be clarified later in the paper. To make your article engaging, utilize significant and important data. Give perusers the data they want.

Beginning with a discussion is a decent method to make your paper spellbinding. These can be talks between numerous individuals.

You can uncover data that will be astounding to the perusers like when composing a profile exposition model about yourself you can uncover something that your perusers don’t know about.

This segment gives weight and importance to your article. The data given in the presentation is extended by utilizing a coordinated organization.

The body will decide whether the peruser keeps on taking part in your paper.

Contend your focus utilizing steady proof and attempt to persuade the crowd that you are a specialist with regard to your subject.

The thoughts referenced in the presentation structure the start of each passage as per the pattern in which they show up in.

Here and there, you may like to end a section utilizing an outline sentence albeit this is discretionary.

In an illustration of a profile article, you can summarize a section by giving the outcome of the subtleties clarified.

This is the last piece of your article. It is normally a couple of sentences contrasted with the body. While summarizing your composition presenting new ideas will confound the perusers.

In this part, you should simply rehash the significant focus helping the peruser to remember their significance, and points, and in the event that they have been satisfied.

In an illustration of character profile exposition about a craftsman, you can’t discuss his family foundation in the event that you had not referenced it in the presentation and in this way clarified in the article.

How to Write a Profile Essay

• Discover a remarkable subject to write a profile essay about. The person can be well-known or somewhat ordinary.

The subject is not limited to an individual but can be a location, leisure interest, or occupation. Expand your search beyond the computer and your neighborhood.

Do primary source research on the subject to acquire background information.

Go to the library and view back issues of local or regional newspapers and other rags or scan online sources.

• Develop a loose outline based on the subject of your essay. Jot down the header, “Introduction.” Start listing possible details that will be disclosed later in the interviews.

Title another header as “Body” and note high points that will become the possible climax of the essay.

Tie it all up in the “Conclusion” header and brainstorm solid ending possibilities.

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• Compose a list of specific interview questions. They should be open-ended but specific and relevant to your essay.

Questions should draw out information not commonly known about the person. Make a list of possible interviewees to broaden the narrative for a multifaceted profile.

This includes others in his or her circle or individuals linked to a location or activity.

• Conduct the interview in a distraction-free zone. Establish a rapport early on to make the interviewee feel comfortable, which will churn out a more productive interview.

Lay down a basic groundwork of what topics will be covered, the length of time needed, and the importance of the interview. Next, advance to the main interview.

Be sure to take meticulous notes or get permission to tape the interview to transcribe later.

• Jot down any observations immediately following the interview. Consider the individual’s habits, attitude, and other qualities that were observed.

Transcribe and rearrange the interview questions to recount an interesting personal perspective or interpretation. This will become your rough draft.

• Revise the draft, incorporating important details and factual incidents that were initially missed.

Start with an attention-grabbing lead sentence. Ensure that the beginning grabs the reader and pulls him in. Intrigue your audience with an informative main section.

Stay focused on your intended approach until the essay’s conclusion , which should give readers a closing impression of the subject and summarize your overall objective.

• Read the essay aloud. Did you give a visual portrayal?

 Check that you interweaved dialogue, added physical descriptions in moderation, but used narrative freely.

What to Consider When Choosing a Subject for Profile Essay

The subject is at the core of your essay the one you choose will determine the outcome of the readers’ experience.

For an easier time writing your essay, consider the following points:

• In case of an interview choose a subject who is easily available and make sure to consider the ones that actually give interviews. Crossing boundaries can land you in trouble.
• What are the recent activities happening to the subject?
• Do not include details that may harm the subject’s reputation or cost them their occupation
• Respect the subject whether famous or infamous
• In the instance of a place use factual information based on concrete evidence.
• Remember to make enough research about your subject
• Choose a reasonable subject. Doing this will ensure that you have all the resources you need.

A profile essay example of another planet is unreasonable because there are limited or no resources available to get information from.

You can also check out MLA Citation for Website: In text | Reference | Social Media|Examples

Tips to Write a Profile Essay

A profile essay vividly presents a subject to the readers. The writing is a combination of objective and expressive: While presenting his observations and analysis to inform the reader, the writer also brings his own personal perspective and interpretations to the essay.

A profile essay differs from biographical and autobiographical writing in that it takes newly acquired observation, through research or firsthand accounts; an autobiography or biography is about remembered experiences.

The challenge of a profile essay is to gather the information and give it shape in an essay that conveys the main idea; there are several guidelines to aid a writer in doing this.

Choose the Subject Wisely

While profiles of exciting, controversial people are always interesting, even the mundane can be intriguing if the writer examines it closely and offers a distinctive perspective.

A writer shouldn’t overlook the quietly remarkable person who seems ordinary on the outside.

Form an Engaging and Informative Plan

A profile essay will most likely be based on at least one interview with the subject, and may also include interviews with those that know the subject.

Writers should resist the temptation to organize the essay in the order they ask the questions, as this can make for boring reading.

Instead, the answers of the questions should be examined closely for an emerging image of the subject. The responses can then be incorporated into a more complex picture of the subject.

Provide a Vivid Description

A quality profile essay should incorporate a vivid word picture of the subject. Include specific details, such as how the subject looks, talks, dresses, smells and is motivated.

Keep straight description, or just cataloging the obvious, to a minimum; instead, use description to give the sense that the subject’s outward appearance reveals inward character traits.

Information from others in the essay should serve to describe the subject and not take on its own life.

Convey a Dominant Impression

A profile essay should convey a dominant impression of the subject: the writer’s personal interpretation and insight on the subject and what the writer has gained from observing and researching.

Carefully select and arrange details so that they communicate your attitude.

This interpretive element is what categorizes the profile essay as a genre and separates it from other forms of narrative and descriptive writing, such as the biography.

Profile Essay Examples

Profile essay example 1 – my happy dad.

My dad always said, “It takes fewer muscles to smile than it does to frown.” I have to believe this is true because I spent the earlier years of my life frowning. Going through life with a cortisol-fueled scowl on your face can make for an exhausting existence. But, when I began smiling—really smiling—I felt more confident, happier, and lighter in spirit. I started asking myself why I hadn’t tried smiling sooner.

My dad’s advice reminded me of an early astronomy class I took in college where the professor lectured us one day about this weird thing called dark energy. It turns out that if you look around you on Earth, everything has gravity—you know, the way things are attracted to each other? Well, apparently, there’s also dark energy that’s pushing all these things apart at an increasingly accelerated rate. Neat stuff to ponder when you’re just trying to pass the class, but something about it stuck with me years later because I think about it in terms of smiling. Like dark energy, when we smile, we can feel ourselves pushing things apart—we expand our own worlds and simultaneously help everyone around us do the same.

Smiling is such a simple act, but it takes muscles to get it done. You have to flex your cheek, bite down on your larynx, and unclench your tongue while simultaneously juggling a ball of hot air that you have to squeeze out your mouth. Then, if people don’t smile back at you, it’s all for naught because you’ve got nothing left to hold yourself together with. It’s a lot of work, but smiling changes everything once you’ve done it.

My dad is the reason I smile. He’s the reason I have the confidence to smile first, too. Looking back at my scowling days, I realize that he was smiling all along—but it took muscles for me to notice.

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You can also check out Tips on Writing a Good APA Research Paper

Profile Essay Example 2 – Boston Marathon Bombings

On April 15th, 2013, the Boston Marathon Bombings shook the city of Boston and America as a whole. This was an extraordinary tragedy that will never be forgotten by those who witnessed it first hand, including myself. The families affected by this horrible tragedy are left to deal with their grief for years to come. What makes the Marathon Bombing event so significant is the fact that everyone felt affected by it. The fact that anyone could be a victim makes everyone feel vulnerable and scared. This event made America feel like we were all Bostonians and that we were united as one nation.

Caroline Richards was cheering on her mother at the 117th Boston Marathon when the first bomb exploded. She was only three feet from the explosion and was severely injured as a result. Caroline spent 35 days in Boston Medical Center recovering from serious injuries she sustained from the bombing. When interviewed about her experience, she made a statement that I will never forget: “There’s no room for fear. We all have to be compassionate and help those who were also injured and affected,” Caroline said. “I am so grateful for my family and friends who have been by my side supporting me.”

This event proves that although tragedies occur, there is always a silver lining. There was light and hope in the midst of the darkness because of all those affected by it. The things people did to help others in need made us feel proud to be human beings capable of love and kindness.

I believe this event will have an everlasting effect on the world because it made us realize how precious life is and that we should appreciate our loved ones. It also taught us to be aware of the things happening around us and to pay more attention, as one small action can trigger a series of large events.

Profile Essay Example 3 – Alice Walker

Alice Walker has made an enormous contribution to literature, not only through her novels and poetry but also by campaigning for civil rights during the 1960s. Born in Georgia in 1944, she grew up in a tiny rural community with her sharecropper parents. Although she grew up in poverty, Walker’s parents managed to raise eight children. Her father was one of the main reasons why Alice became interested in learning about African-American history and literature.

Walker’s love for reading and writing started after sustaining an injury to her right eye that left her permanently blind in that eye. As soon as she could, she went back to school and studied at several colleges. She received her bachelor’s degree in 1965.

Alice Walker made history when her novel The Color Purple won the Pulitzer Prize in 1982. This was the first time that an African-American woman had won this prestigious award. The book is about a young black woman, Celie, whose life is filled with pain and suffering. It was made into a movie in 1985 by Steven Spielberg.

Alice Walker has used her writing to express her opinions about the conditions that black people were forced into during segregation in America. Her work is not only important because it enlightened people about these incidents but also added dignity to the African-American culture.

Profile Essay Example 4 – My mother’s determination

The day my mother was born, doctors didn’t think she would live. Her tiny body just wasn’t strong enough to survive in this world. But, against all odds and after hours of intensive care from a rotating team of nurses, my mother defied the odds and continued to grow and thrive.

Her early battle with life made her strong, determined, and resilient—a warrior that would fight for what she wanted. Later in life, even though she had a successful career as a social worker and could easily provide for herself financially, my mother took on another challenge: raising five children.

This was not easy, but my mother never complained; she simply figured out how to make things work in her own way. She made our lives fun and happy by taking us on long walks in the park or baking cookies with us in the afternoon when we got home from school. My mother’s determination influenced me to keep trying even if I didn’t always succeed the first time.

Today, my mother is retired and lives in Florida with my father. So many times, she has told me how much she loves her life because every day is sunny, and nothing bad ever happens to her anymore. I am so grateful for all of the sacrifices she made on our behalf, but mostly I am thankful for her strength and resilience because those attributes have made me strong too.

Profile Essay Example 5

“Good evening, Valparaiso. I’m storm shield meteorologist Jacob Van Horn here with a look at your forecast.” Ever since Jake was in grade school, he knew that he wanted to be a meteorologist. However, it wasn’t until high school that he realized his dream could truly become reality. Jake’s interest in weather began when he first watched the movie “Twister,” a collection of National Geographic documentaries provided by his school. With an abundance of hard work and dedication, Jake is working towards earning his bachelor’s degree in meteorology and achieving his dream of becoming a meteorologist.

Since Jake has always been an admirer of the weather, severe storms always brought him a thrill. His interest in weather peaked after an F-4 tornado struck a city near his home in November of 2002. His family drove through Van Wert, Ohio, to see the damage. “Those images will always be in my head,” he recalls.

Although Jake always knew that he wanted to become a meteorologist, it was not until high school when he recognized his full potential. He realized how good he was at science and math and how much he enjoyed each of these subjects. Math and science are a crucial part of meteorology; therefore, Jake decided to “give it a go.”

When it came to deciding upon a college to pursue his meteorology degree, Jake was torn between Purdue University and Valparaiso University. Both schools possessed a great meteorology program, but Jake was drawn to Valparaiso’s small school atmosphere and location. Although Valparaiso was a private university with higher tuition than Purdue, Jake received a presidential scholarship, which aided in paying for his tuition. Getting accepted into a college with an outstanding meteorology program brought Jake one step closer to achieving his dream.

Once college started, there were a broad range of meteorology classes that he had to take. They started as simple, introductory classes and progressed into much more specific classes, such as an aviation weather class to predict things such as turbulence and a tropical class, which not only focuses on hurricanes and tropical storms, but the impact of the ocean on the weather in general. These classes will be beneficial to his future career choice. A meteorologist’s job can be described as making a type of educated prediction. Jake will use what he has learned in his classes, apply that broad knowledge to whatever is happening in the forecast, look at where the weather is coming from, and predict what he believes will happen.

The summer between his freshman and sophomore years of college, Jake was an intern at a local news station, WANE 15. While at his internship, he often assisted the head meteorologist in creating graphics that were used on television. He liked using the graphics system to see what he could create and he also liked communicating to the people about what was going to be happening. Jake said that he was able to learn an abundance of new things that will be useful in his future endeavors. One night, during a large tornado outbreak, he stayed at the station until around 2AM, keeping the viewing areas informed about the potentially dangerous weather conditions. He said that it “was definitely a crazy night.”

When he returned back to campus his sophomore year, Jake was a lab aide for an introductory class, which helps to refresh students on the basics of meteorology. He was also an assistant weather director at the campus television station, which is helping him learn about the broadcasting side of meteorology. He has learned everything from production to graphic-making and even presentation skills on the green screen. Although he did not think he would like being on television, before he began classes, Jake has learned many skills that have opened his mind to the world of broadcasting.

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A good profile essay should be easy to read and relatively short, with a strong beginning that grabs the reader’s attention.

The best profile essays are written with clear, concise language that showcases the personality of your subject.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about writing an essay on a particular topic . We would be happy to help with this process.

Related FAQs

1. how to write a profile essay.

Before you start writing your profile essay, you should know its structure. This refers to the introduction, body of a paragraph and conclusion. This part draws the attention of your readers. This is your chance to hook them until the end of your piece.

2. What is a typical profile essay example?

A typical profile essay example is a creative description of a personality, an event, or an object that relates to a particular person. In some cases, you can choose topics or ideas that describe a celebrity or a scientist. It must deal with the facts and provide descriptions.

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3. How to write a comprehensive and balanced profile essay?

A comprehensive and balanced essay can be written by in-depth research and knowledge about the student’s subject. The first and foremost goal of a profile essay is to be informative. It is a literary work that focuses on the description of a person, place, or event.

4. What is the conclusion of a profile essay?

The conclusion is the final part where you are required to give a summary of your essay. Unlike the body, it should only contain a few sentences that restates all your major points pointing out your topic’s relevance. How to Start Writing a Profile Essay?

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How to Write a Profile Essay (+ Examples to Check)

In the article, you’ll find the profile essay definition and structure. Several examples are also here to help you see how to create a brilliant one.

What is a Profile Essay?

Such papers have two primary goals:

•  Stay informative
•  Provide as many exciting details about the subject as possible

Another essential detail is that you shouldn’t stray from the topic. Mention only the relevant things, and don’t be afraid to keep the focus as narrow as possible.

That’s the point of any profile essay.

Profile Essay Example

Profile essays look personal, but their style is matter-of-fact and academic. It seems challenging, but you can do that with appropriate examples at hand.

There are two common types of such papers: on a person and a place . Since each has its specifics, let’s jump right into the samples!

Profile essay example on a person 

Lucky you are when a professor assigns an essay about yourself. After all, it’s a person you know best, right? When writing about someone else, the key is to treat them how you’d treat yourself if you wrote your story.

Here’s an example of a profile essay on a person :

Profile essay example on a place  

Another profile paper is the one describing a specific location. It can include its history, spots, and the famous people who visited it. 

Choose the places you find exciting, but consider how much information you can dig up. Remember that a stellar profile essay must be informative. Put your emotions about what you’re describing aside.  Example:

How to Write a Profile Essay: Outline and Tips

One of the profile essay challenges is making it long enough  to meet the word count.

You can do it through research and adding extra info during the writing process. Imagine you’re a detective compiling a case file!

More details:

Craft a profile essay outline before writing. It’s a plan for an intro, a body, and a conclusion [1]. Important: Outline the thesis and topic sentences for each paragraph. That way, you’ll get a template for your essay to fill in with relevant information.

How to start a profile essay

The best way to start your essay is a so-called attention grabber. Tell the most intriguing fact about your topic and elaborate on it in the following sentence.

As a finishing touch, focus on a thesis statement. That last sentence reveals all the details you’ll discuss in the upcoming paragraphs.

Body paragraphs

You need several main points, whether writing about a personality or describing a location. Derive topic sentences (your paragraphs’ first sentences) from research and make them informative.

The last sentence of each section should be a transition to the next one. It will make your essay easy to read.

Writing a profile essay conclusion

Unlike an interview or expository essay , your conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes the core info from your paper.

While it sounds simple, this part of your paper is the most significant. Ensure you end it with a relevant sum-up.

Practical tips on writing profile papers  

Profile papers are all about research and editing your essay to perfection. Below are three fruitful tips [2] on how to do that.

• Use a reference finder . This tool works like a filter, removing all irrelevant sources from your search. It will help you invest less time in finding the materials you need.
• Spend several hours resting before editing your paper . If you look for mistakes in your essay right after you’ve finished the draft, you’re likely to miss them. Give your brain time to refocus, and you’ll find more typos and inconsistencies.
• Ask parents or friends how informative it is . If unsure about how your paper turned out, ask someone who doesn’t know much about the topic. If they find your draft engaging, it’s a success.

Bonus: Profile Essay Topics Ideas  

If a tutor doesn’t provide a specific topic for your profile essay and you struggle to find one, try any of these:

•   My Hometown’s History: The Hero of People
•   The Writer Who Shaped My View of Life
•   The Best Five-Star Hotel In Our Country
•   An Unusual Millionaire With a Kind Heart
•   A Touching Story of a Famous Animal
•   My Favorite Painter: A Biography
•   My Favorite Touristic Location
•   The Spookiest Location I’ve Ever Visited
•   The Teacher Who Was My Role Model
•   The Landmark I’ll Never Forget
•   My Pet Animal: Facts and Stories
•   My Hero: The Person I Want to Become
•   The Most Impressive Water Body I’ve Seen
•   The Place I Dream to Visit
•   The Fictional Character I Learned Most From

Profile essays can be challenging. Yet, they’re great for training your writing and research skills. You pay attention to details so that a text flows and presents information logically.

It’s okay if you don’t create a masterpiece on your first try. Just remember to have fun in the process.

References:

• https://www.adelaide.edu.au/english-for-uni/essay-writing
• https://www.wccnet.edu/webfiles/writing-center/web/essay-structures/ProfileEssay.pdf
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• A Research Guide
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How to Write a Profile Essay

• Purpose of profile essay
• How to start
• Structure and outline

Step-by-step writing guide

• Profile essay format

Helpful profile essay examples

What is the purpose of a profile essay, how to start a profile essay correctly, checking successful profile essays matters, choosing your profile essay subject, determine the style and tone of your writing, profile essay structure and outline, profile essay mandatory sections.

• An Introduction. Under ideal conditions, it should contain several sentences and provide background information about the subject.
• Body Sections. This part should discuss all the points mentioned in the introduction paragraph yet in greater detail.
• Conclusion. It is where you provide a summary of all the key points.

1. Determining your profile

2. Choosing your profile essay subject

3. writing an introduction, 4. working on body paragraphs, 5. conclusion part, 6. final editing and proofreading, profile essay formatting tips.

• Keep information accessible and clear to your readers.
• Your sentences should not be overly long. Write to the point.
• The structure of paragraphs must implement topic sentences as you write.
• Choose your words and phrases wisely to convey the main meaning.
• Offer details and examples along with key facts or an interview.
• Offer a summary sentence in each paragraph to make smooth transitions.
• Write in a focused and enjoyable manner by avoiding overexplaining things.
• Use creative narration methods to keep things more inspiring.
• When you are confused, approaching a cheap essay writing service with experienced writers may help you narrow things down.
• Keep your writing balanced and offer explanations and glossary points for all the elements that may require an additional explanation.
• 10+ Profile essay examples . These contain free expository and interview examples available free of charge.
• Profile essay composition examples by Washtenaw Community College.
• Purdue OWL Writing Lab formatting and writing style guides help.

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How to write a profile essay

• December 26, 2023

A profile essay is when you  focus your writing on a single person, location, or object.

When you need to write one of these types of essays , it’s important to keep the essay’s main objective in mind. This objective is to be enlightening. 

Choosing a profile essay topic

You first need to choose a topic for your profile essay. Then, you need to gather information about the topic.

Choosing the topic

Consider a person, a place, or an object when choosing a topic .

• A popular person or place will usually pique the attention of readers because they are curious about them.
• If you’re passionate about your subject, you are likely to show your passion in your writing.​
• Ideally, you will need to interview your subject. If your subject is a person, try to choose someone that you can interview. If you are going to write about a place, try to choose one that you can visit.​

For these steps, we are going to be writing a profile essay on the former United States President Barack Obama .

Researching and gathering information

First-hand information is often preferable because it contains data that can’t be accessed somewhere else. If you are interviewing someone for information:

• Ask detailed questions rather than yes-or-no questions that don't need in-depth detail.

If you are going to write about a famous person or a place you can’t visit, receiving first-hand information isn’t possible . In this case:

• Use online interviews, books, and websites to find specific details about the person, place, or object.

Profile essay introduction

One of the most common characteristics of profile essays is their focus on presenting comprehensive details about the subject (Avoiding general descriptions). Therefore, in the introduction of a profile essay:

If you are writing about a person:

• You can start with that person’s appearance.
• You could mention the details such as name, age, race, weight, height, skin tone, and so on are crucial.​

If you are writing about a city:

• The etymology of the city name, a description of the area, nearby locations, geographical coordinates, population, history, and so on should all be included.

Profile essay introduction example

Add your thesis statement to the last sentence of your introduction to explain the main argument of your essay. 

Additionally, the introduction of a profile essay should be short. If you are unable to write a introduction concisely, you can make use of a text summarizer . Using a summarizer will benefit in saving your time/effort, engaging readers, as well and covering all the key terms.

Writing body paragraphs

It’s time to compose the body paragraphs now that you’ve finished your introduction. It’s important to:

• Include sensory information such as sight, sound, and touch. When writing about an event, include information about the atmosphere and the moods of the attendees.
• Include interview questions and facts that readers may be interested in learning more about.​
• Connect the details in the paragraph to the thesis statement.​
• Make your profile essay as detailed as possible, making your reader feel as if they are there with you.​

Profile essay body paragraph example

Profile essay conclusion paragraph.

Now it’s time to write our conclusion . Use the conclusion to:

• Restate your thesis statement
• Summarize all of the details provided in the profile essay in a concise way.​
• Include a hook or closing sentence at the end to keep your readers intrigued about the subject.

Profile essay conclusion example

Final tips on profile essays.

• When writing your essay, it’s important to remember that your whole essay should be framed by your viewpoint on the events. Try to be fair, but recognize that you have to be subjective.
• While a profile essay adopts a professional tone that is anticipated in the academic community, profile essays are more flexible than various types of essays.
• You must make a point and offer evidence to support it, just as you do in other essays.
• You should avoid writing an interview transcript and submitting it as an essay.

5-Paragraph Profile Essay Example

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk: A Profile of a Nation-Building Leader

Body Paragraphs

Key takeaways

• A profile essay is a type of essay that describes a person, place, or event in detail, focusing on the subject's unique qualities or characteristics.
• To write a profile essay, you must conduct research and gather information through interviews, observation, and other sources.
• Start your essay with an engaging introduction that provides context and previews the main points of your essay.
• Use specific details and anecdotes to bring your subject to life, and organize your essay around a clear thesis statement.
• End your essay with a conclusion that summarizes your main points and provides a final reflection on the significance of the subject.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a profile essay.

A profile essay aims to provide a thorough description or analysis of a person, location, or event. The essay should include an in-depth examination of the subject’s history, personality, and deeds. It should also give insight into the subject’s relevance or influence.

Who should be the subject of the profile essay?

A person, location, or event might be the subject of a profile essay. An actual person, such as a prominent personality or a fictitious character, can be used. It can also refer to a location, such as a city or a monument, or an event, such as a concert or sporting event.  

How do I choose a specific topic or angle for the profile essay?

Consider the following factors when selecting a topic or viewpoint for a profile essay:

• What distinguishing attributes or characteristics does the topic have?
• What is the subject’s importance to a bigger audience?
• What story or message do you wish to communicate about the topic? 

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How to Write a Profile Essay from start to end like a pro

Many people do not realize that a biography is a profile essay, but it is. It is a profile essay because it is essentially the profile or the detailed description of a person.

You can be assigned to write an informative essay where you describe a person, place, event, or whatever subject. If that is the case, you should write a profile essay. A profile essay is basically a descriptive essay.

It is a common assignment in college for journalism and media studies courses. However, students pursuing other courses can also be assigned to write a profile essay. Although writing one can be challenging, we will show you in a bit how it can be enjoyable and what steps you need to take.

In this post, you will learn everything you need to know to write the perfect profile essay. Oh! You can buy a profile essay from us and have it customized to your instructions or rubric. Otherwise, let’s begin.

What is a Profile Essay?

The hallmark of writing a staller profile essay is knowing what it means.

In the academic context, a profile essay is basically a descriptive essay or informative essay about a person, place, location, activity, item, institution, organization, or event. Within the journalism context, profile essays refer to compositions about a person.

It is an essay that provides a detailed description of someone or something. The essay is usually between 600 and 850 words long and can be longer than 1000 words. The best way to write it is in such a way that it gives the reader a complete picture of the subject.

For example, if you are asked to write a profile essay on your best friend, you should write it so that when someone reads it, they will quickly gain a comprehensive understanding of your best friend.

There are two basic types of profile essays – descriptive profile essays and analytical profile essays .

Descriptive profile essays offer a comprehensive description of someone or something, while analytical ones provide in-depth analysis/evaluation of someone or something while describing it. The most common type of profile essay is the descriptive one. You can be asked to write a descriptive profile essay on a movie character, a story character, a politician, a celebrity, or someone you know personally. You can also be asked to write one on a location, an event, or even an idea.

What Is the Purpose of a Profile Essay?

The purpose of a profile essay is to provide a comprehensive view of a subject. The subject could be virtually anything.

When you are asked to write a profile essay, you should try to write it so that it leaves no important information.

For example, if you choose to write an essay on Barrack Obama, it should describe everything about the man from his origin to his Harvard experience, his senatorial experience, and finally, his presidency. This will help the reader to know everything crucial they need to know about Obama, including his life before the presidency.

When writing a profile essay, you should try as hard as possible to make it as interesting and informative as possible. Because profile essays that are not interesting tend to have too boring and too dull to read. So if you want the reader to read your essay from the first word in the introduction to the last word in the conclusion paragraph, ensure it is an exciting read.

The 6 main steps for writing a Perfect Profile Essay

Writing a successful, stellar, and grade-worthy profile essay needs some quality work. Here are some insights from our top profile essay writers who have completed many profile essays for clients. These essay writers are widely experienced in writing such essays and use these steps to produce the best profile essays. 

When assigned to write a profile essay for your class assignment, follow these six steps: (1) get inspired by professionally done examples, (2) choose a topic and a subject of focus, (3) research, (4) plan your essay, (5) write the essay, and (6) edit and proofread the essay before submitting.

Now let’s expound on each point to make it further easier for you to write a profile essay that attracts the best grades/score.

1. Get inspired by Examples

You need to research, plan, and write it better to ensure that it has no flaws. To write better, you can get inspiration through reading professional profile essay examples . These professionally written profile compositions are common in magazines such as The New York Times, Esquire, Washington Post, and The Guardian, among others.

While reading these examples, note how the details are presented, the ordering technique used, the use of transitions, hooks, and other aspects of formal writing, formatting, paragraphing approach, and the general choice of words.

You could read as many examples of profile essays as you can. However, be keen on selecting the best to benchmark as you write your profile essay based on the prompt from your professor.

2. Choose a topic and the subject

When asked to write a profile essay, you will most probably be asked to choose a topic by your professor. If this is the case, you should choose a topic that is interesting to you. Sometimes you are given a topic and told to write about it.

Because by choosing an interesting story, you get a chance to tell this story in your essay.

Of course, telling an interesting story is something you should be greatly interested in doing because interesting profile essays are almost always excellent profile essays.

After selecting the topic, ensure that you also choose a subject (the person, place, activity, or event of interest). The subject you choose to write about in your essay can either make or break your profile writing.

3. Gather information about the subject

Once you have chosen a topic for your profile essay, the next thing you need to do is to gather information about the subject.

For example, if the subject is a person, you should research information about them online at this stage. Gather as many important details about the person as you can. These details will be useful in the next step. In some cases, if you have access to the person you want to write an essay on, you can organize an interview with the person to find out more about them directly from them.

If you are writing a profile essay based on an interview, be sure to capture some of the responses the subject gave. It would be best to have open-ended questions on the interview plan to find as much valid information as possible. You need to corroborate the information using information available from credible sources.

4. Create an outline

Although sometimes an outline is not mandatory for an essay, you need to have a quick outline to arrange the ideas and thoughts and define the structure of your paper. Stick to a specific outline format for your essay.

If you feel you have gathered as many details about the subject as possible, you should create a profile essay outline. The outline should highlight what you want to write in each essay section. It should be as comprehensive as possible to make the next step easier. There is a profile essay outline example later in this post. You should use its structure to create your own outline.

5. Write the first draft of your essay

With the nice profile essay outline, the next thing you need to do is to start writing your profile essay. You can do this easily by following your outline like a map.

You see, if you did your outline correctly, it should contain sentences or instructions on how to start each paragraph in your essay and what to include in the paragraph.

When writing the first draft, follow your outline to start writing your essay and write all the paragraphs. As you are writing, remember this is a profile essay. You should try to keep the tone conversational and be as descriptive, informative, or vivid as you can. Write first and edit later.

As long as the ideas are flowing, keep on writing.

6. Edit and Proofread your Essay

After you are done writing your essay, the next thing you need to do is to proofread and edit it. We always advise taking a break to cool off from writing, develop an objective mind, and be ready to self-critique as you edit.

When proofreading, read it twice or thrice to identify and edit errors, mistakes, and weak statements or arguments. Once you have edited your essay to the level where you feel it is perfect, send it to a friend to read it one more time and catch the mistakes you might have missed.

Ask them to highlight any mistakes or errors they see. When you get your essay back, edit it one more time to eliminate the mistakes and errors identified. You can also hire a professional proofreader  if you need it done first and professionally.

After you are done editing as detailed above, your profile essay should be ready for submission.

The Structure and Format of a Profile Essay

You now know exactly what to do to write a profile essay. You know all the steps you need to take to write a good profile essay. In case you did not know the structure, it is presented below with its three key parts – the introduction, the body, and the conclusion.

1. Introduction Paragraph

Like every other essay, the profile essay has an introduction. In the introduction part of the essay, you must present what you will talk about in the body part. And you must do it in a summarized manner. Two statements are very important when writing the introduction paragraph – the hook statement and the thesis statement .

The hook statement is the opening statement. It should be interesting to grab the reader's attention and make them want to read your essay. And the thesis statement should be the last statement in your introduction paragraph. It should contain your main argument or the position you support in your essay.

2. Body Paragraphs

The body part of the profile essay is usually made of three or more body paragraphs.

When writing body paragraphs in your profile essay, you should ensure each body paragraph describes or analyzes a different part or aspect of the subject of your essay.

Furthermore, you should ensure a good flow between your body paragraphs and the sentences that make them up.  

The most important thing to remember when writing this part of your profile essay is to present your ideas chronologically. This will make this part of your essay easy to understand. Use sensory details to relate to your readers' senses and create a vivid picture.

3. Conclusion Paragraph

At the end of the profile essay, there is a conclusion paragraph . The purpose of this part of the essay is to wrap it up.

So, after providing a detailed description of your subject in the body paragraph, you should summarize everything and then provide a powerful closing statement. This is the most effective way to conclude a profile essay or any other type of essay for that matter.

Remember, the conclusion part is only supposed to contain your conclusion or and not any new argument, evidence, or claim.

Profile Essay Outline Example

Follow the example profile essay outline below to discover how exactly to create a profile essay outline.

Title: My best friend

I. Introduction

• Hook sentence: My best friend has always stood up for me from the very first day.
• Background info: What makes your friend special and unique? And my friend’s biographical information.
• Thesis statement: My best friend is someone I can count on even if the whole world is against me.

II. First body paragraph (Appearance and personality)

• Major point: My best friend is a tall, well-built, and laidback person.
• Description and evidence: Provide a comprehensive description of the major point above and use evidence such as quotes and examples.
• Concluding sentence

III. Second body paragraph (Major event in your friend’s life)

• Major point: My best friend lost his younger brother at age 10, hugely impacting his life.

IV. Third body paragraph (What distinguishes your best friend from others)

• Major point: My best friend is loyal to the core and very dependable.

V. Conclusion paragraph

• Thesis restatement
• Restatement of major points
• Closing sentence

Topic ideas for a Profile Essay

When tasked with choosing a profile essay topic to write about, consider choosing an interesting topic, has a favorite subject, and something that has information in case you need to corroborate facts.

Below is a list of profile essay topic ideas. Use the list as inspiration to develop your profile essay topic.

• President Obama’s Profile: His early life, his senatorial career, and his presidency
• Turkey and its place in Middle Eastern politics
• Africa: A continent with resources but also with global poverty
• Europe: A cycle of war and devastation
• King Solomon and his mighty empire
• Mandela: The man who changed the world
• Adolf Hitler: His ideology and his beliefs
• My dog is my best friend
• UNHCR: A history of taking care of refugees
• United Nations: Successes and challenges over the years
• Why Zanzibar is a must-visit country
• My favorite movie
• The diet of the residents of Loma Linda
• The best celebrity role model
• The best summer camp for kids in the USA
• The most stunning animal park in the USA
• Stalin: How the Russian leader helped defeat the Nazis
• Moscow: The capital of the Russian Federation
• The United States: the greatest economy in the world
• MV. Aurora: The conqueror of the seven seas
• Adidas: A history of challenges and successes
• Jane Austen: A high-achieving woman
• Nike Success’s Story
• The best Air Jordan Stores
• The real personality of Princess Diana
• The US Senate and its responsibilities
• Queen Elizabeth: The longest serving female head of government
• The sport I love the most
• Stephen King: The most elegant writer of our time
• The best classic car ever

Example of a Process Essay

My favorite elementary school teacher A few years ago, I ran into Mrs. Penny while escaping some school bullies who gave me a hard time. When I ran into her, I just burst into tears, and she did not know what to do. She just hugged me. She later escorted me to a small bench and asked me to tell her everything. I did exactly that, and she made sure the boys were suspended. I did not know it then, but she was about to play a key role in molding me into who I am today. Mrs. Penny was a tall, big and strong woman. She always walked with authority about her. Some students said she was into powerlifting, but I don’t think she was. While she had a big physique and she was very kind and motherly. Everyone loved her for this. She always treated every single student with respect and tried to listen and reason with you rather than impose her beliefs. For example, she once talked to our class and convinced everyone to stay in class for about five minutes long to finish explaining something. This is something that had never happened before, yet she achieved it. One day while in class, Mrs. Penny caught another student in the middle of a nasty fight. Since the last time she had saved me from bullies, she had always thought I was a well-disciplined boy. So she was very disappointed when she caught me fighting as it was strictly against school rules. We were sent to detention and then came back to class later. As everybody was leaving class in the late afternoon, she asked me to stay behind and told me to sit down. She talked to me, motivated me, and told me that I could only succeed in life by being disciplined. I promised her always to be disciplined, which has helped me in life. It has helped me to become a much better person. If other teachers found me fighting or doing something else, they probably couldn’t have cared. This is because they could have simply assumed I was a bad kid. However, Mrs. Penny was not like other teachers. She was kind, empathetic, and motherly. She saw me as someone I was not and took her time to help show me the right direction in life. I believe I am now in college because of what she told me, especially about discipline being the key to success. As you can see, Mrs. Penny played a very important role in molding me into who I am today. She helped me to become a better person and to take discipline as one of my guiding principles. It is my hope that Mrs. Penny is still alive and is still helping guide elementary students to become better versions of themselves.

Tips to Use when Writing a Profile Essay

By now, you can already see that writing profile essays can be fun; it is fun! When you select a subject of interest, you can only write the best things about them as long as you meet the scope of the rubric. Like any other comprehensive academic essay , a profile essay has three sections: the introduction, body, and conclusion. And for you to write one that appeals to your readers and markers, here are some tips and tricks that actually work:

• Edit your work. After you are done writing your essay, you should thoroughly edit it to ensure it has no grammatical errors, punctuation errors, and so on. This will ensure it gets a good grade.
• Show respect. When writing a profile essay about someone, you must show respect even if you hate them. You must strive to be objective and to use objective language. This will make your essay to sound more professional than an anger-ridden essay.
• Try to balance your paragraphs. This may seem trivial, but it is not. You must try to balance your paragraphs to make your essay appear structured and organized. This will increase your probability of getting a good grade.
• Create an outline before you start. Creating an outline before writing an essay will help you stay focused and organized.
• Keep your tone professional. You should strive to keep your tone professional throughout the essay. This is especially true when you are writing about someone close to you. Keeping your tone professional will help you get a good grade on your essay.
• Watch your tone and style . As you compose the paragraphs of your profile essay, you should use both formal and informal approaches. It should not be written in the second person. Rather, use first-person and think of creative ways to make your written piece fun to read. Although you are writing an academic piece that should be done professionally, you have the flexibility of flouting the academic writing rules. Describe the subject and maintain a tone that creates a vivid image of the subject.

Final Words

We are sure that by now, our professional writers at EssayManiacs, through their insights, have made composing a profile essay as simple as it should be. The knowledge we have shared in this post is enough to enable you to write the perfect profile essay or composition.

Remember to bring in your creativity, presentation, and organization skills when writing. Write preferably in the first person and have the flexibility of expanding your creativity. That said and done, you should now be able to get an excellent grade whenever you are asked to write a profile essay.

If you need help writing and polishing a profile essay, you should know that we are here for you. We have a team of English essay writing experts who can write a profile essay on virtually any topic. Order your essay from us to get a high grade on your essay assignment.

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How to Write a Profile Essay With Tips and Examples

22 December 2023

last updated

Students may encounter profile essays in nearly all disciplines, which makes it essential for them to understand profile essay writing. Basically, this guide commences with a definition of a profile essay and highlights its traits. Then, the manual discusses the significance of interview or observation sessions in profile essay writing and elaborates on the differences between a profile essay and other forms of academic papers. Lastly, the guide deconstructs the structure of a profile essay and provides clear directives on the writing of each part. In turn, the manual contains a sample outline and profile essay, which exemplify the content of this guide. Hence, students need to learn how to write a profile essay to develop their academic skills and understanding of a concept.

General Guidelines for Writing a Profile Essay

For writing your paper, these links will be helpful:

• Buy College Essay
• How to Write an Informative Essay
• How to Write an Analytical Essay
• How to Write a Definition Essay
• How to Write an Evaluation Essay

1. Definition of a Profile Essay

A profile essay is a type of academic paper that presents a detailed description of a person, event, or place by using a well-organized structure. Basically, authors spend a significant amount of time researching a particular topic to collect the less obvious information that a reader cannot acquire through a simple web search. In this case, a profile essay contains vivid descriptions and clear explanations that students derive from various reliable sources . Therefore, a profile essay is an expository essay , which implies that authors write papers with the sole purpose of informing the audience regarding a given topic by using facts, examples, and other relevant evidence.

2. Distinct Traits of a Profile Essay

During the composition of a profile essay, students do not need to write a position or present an argument concerning a topic of interest. Basically, the authorship style that learners use in writing a profile essay should not lead the audience toward any predefined conclusion regarding a topic. Instead, authors present readers with facts or evidence and provide them with adequate ‘space’ to reach individual conclusions. Accordingly, a thesis statement of a profile essay does not announce a central claim . In turn, profile essays have a high demand for objectivity because any attempt to persuade the audience to support a perspective undermines the purpose of a paper.

3. Intrinsic Value of Interviews and Observations

Interviews and direct observations are critical to the formation of a profile essay. Mostly, interviews or observations are the main sources of information for a profile essay. In particular, students should plan to interview or observe the object, place, or event because it is the only way to write unique content for a profile essay. Also, learners must be prepared adequately for an interview or observation session to ensure that they can acquire the necessary information to complete their papers. During interviews or observation sessions, documentation is essential because it provides authors with an accurate record of the information. Specifically, the record is useful when writers need to verify some facts that they choose to include in a profile essay. In turn, video recordings, tape recordings, and notetaking are the preferred means of capturing information from interviews and observation sessions.

4. How Does a Profile Essay Differ From Other Papers

Profile essays are different from other types of essays because they have a low reliance on secondary sources . Basically, the use of secondary sources is widespread in academic writing because it is easy to locate and access such sources and establish their reliability from bibliographical information. However, authors of secondary sources may skew the meaning of information to achieve a specific purpose or exclude critical details that have no relevance to the source’s central claim. In consequence, secondary sources are rarely comprehensive sources, and writers of profile essays use them to verify facts rather than collect evidence. Moreover, primary sources are suitable for writing a profile essay, but the acquisition of credible sources is quite challenging, which causes students to conduct interviews or observe a place or event.

Structure of a Profile Essay

1. the role of an introduction.

The introduction is the first distinct section of a typical essay structure . Mostly, the introduction has only one paragraph. In this case, the primary role of the introduction is to set the context of a profile essay and provide the audience with a reason to continue reading the remaining sections of a paper. Moreover, the introduction becomes longer with the increase in the profile essay’s word count. Nonetheless, the introduction’s word count should not exceed 10% of the essay’s word count. In turn, the introductory paragraph should not contain any in-text citations except for a situation where students use a direct quotation to begin a paragraph.

2. Roles of Body Paragraphs

This section of a profile essay is the most substantial because it takes up approximately 80% of the word count. Basically, the body section consists of at least two body paragraphs with no maximum number of paragraphs. For example, the appropriate number of paragraphs is dependent on the number of distinct points that writers intend to present to the audience. Also, there is no specific length for a body paragraph, but students should strive to have no paragraphs that are longer than half a page. Also, it is an excellent practice to ensure that each paragraph has a minimum of four sentences.

3. The Role of a Conclusion

The conclusion is a one-paragraph section, which appears at the end of a profile essay. Basically, the conclusion of a profile essay is a concise overview of the content of body paragraphs. Notably, the closing paragraph focuses on revisiting a thesis statement and topic sentences as a final effort to emphasize the value of a profile essay. In turn, this paragraph should not be longer than 10% of the word count. Mostly, the conclusion paragraph does not contain any in-text citations.

Writing an Outline for a Profile Essay

A profile essay’s outline is a hierarchical layout of the main points of body paragraphs and annotations of the information that students intend to write in the introduction and conclusion sections. Primarily, an essay outline acts as a guide for the drafting stage of the writing process, which ensures that learners do not unintentionally exclude a point that is crucial to a profile. Furthermore, such an outline allows authors to document the specific evidence that they plan to use to support the main point of each paragraph. In turn, students should allocate adequate time to the writing and reviewing of an outline to ascertain the compatibility of the evidence and central point of each paragraph, which prevents false starts and reduces the likelihood of extensive revision.

Sample Outline Template for a Profile Essay

I. Introductio n

A. Hook. B. Background information. C. Thesis statement.

A. First body paragraph

• Write the main point of the first paragraph.
• Provide evidence supporting this paragraph’s main point.
• Write explanations of the evidence.
• End with a concluding statement.

B. Second body paragraph

• Write the main point of the second paragraph.

C. Third body paragraph

• Write the main point of the third paragraph.

III. Conclusion

A. Restatement of a thesis statement. B. Summary of the three main points in body paragraphs. C. Closing remarks emphasizing the significance of a profile essay.

Converting an Outline to a Profile Essay

1. research.

Research after interviews or observation sessions is vital to writing a profile essay. Typically, a student conducts some research before interviews or observation sessions to identify areas of interest that are worth investigating. After collecting information, authors must engage in research to develop a deeper understanding of responses or actions of a subject. In turn, this research stage ensures that the author’s unfamiliarity with specialized vocabulary and conventions of discipline-specific discourse does not result in incorrect interpretations or summaries.

2. Writing an Introduction for a Profile Essay

A hook sentence is the first statement of the introduction. Basically, it serves the purpose of triggering the audience’s interest in the subject of a review. In this case, students may use a variety of strategies to develop a hook, for instance, making a comparison, using a vivid quotation, mentioning a surprising fact, and asking a question. In turn, if learners know how to write a hook , they ensure that this sentence relates to the reader’s knowledge or experience, which allows it to be an impactful statement on its own.

B. Background Information

This segment of the introduction contains information that responds to four main questions:

• Who or what is the subject?
• What are the important traits of the subject?
• Why is the subject interesting?

Responses to these three questions provide background information on the subject. Moreover, statements narrow the scope of the purpose of writing a profile essay, which sets the stage for announcing a thesis statement.

C. Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the last element of the first paragraph. In particular, it informs readers of the purpose of interviews or observation sessions, which are the source of most information in a profile essay. Essentially, a thesis statement is a one-sentence summary of the main points that students write in each paragraph. In turn, a thesis statement should be succinct and clear.

3. Writing Body Paragraphs for a Profile Essay

A. topic sentence.

This statement informs readers of the main point that authors discuss in a particular paragraph. Basically, topic statements do not present the author’s claim in a profile essay. Instead, if students know how to write a topic sentence , they provide a brief and direct answer to an interview question or a question that motivates authors to observe the subject. In turn, topic statements contribute to the development of a thesis statement.

B. Evidence

In this segment of a body paragraph, students present specific details that support a topic statement. Basically, learners may incorporate evidence into a profile essay by using three main techniques: direct quoting, paraphrasing, and summarising. Mostly, authors acquire evidence from records of interviews or observation sessions. In turn, writers should ensure that the meaning of the evidence is not lost, especially during paraphrasing and summarising.

C. Explanation

Students elucidate the significance of the evidence to a topic statement in this section of a profile essay. In particular, learners provide necessary information for the audience to interpret the evidence correctly because a piece of evidence is merely a snapshot rather than an entire account. Also, objectivity is critical while writing an explanation segment of a paragraph with bridge sentences . In turn, the length of explanations varies with the perceived complexity of the evidence.

D. Concluding Sentence

This statement is the last element of a paragraph. Usually, it is one sentence that appears at the end of the paragraph. Moreover, a concluding statement offers a summary of the content of a paragraph. In this case, the primary role of this summary is to connect the paragraph’s content to a thesis statement. Furthermore, such a sentence contributes to a transition effect because it informs the audience that a paragraph is complete.

4. Writing a Conclusion for a Profile Essay

The concluding paragraph has three essential elements: a restatement of a thesis, a summary of the main points, and closing remarks. Basically, students begin the final paragraph with a statement that has the same meaning as a thesis statement, although it employs an entirely new set of words and different syntax. Next, authors provide an overview of the content of body paragraphs. Lastly, learners write one or two sentences that link the introduction, thesis statement, and body paragraphs to create a sense of unity between individual parts of a profile essay. In turn, students must refrain from introducing new information while writing the conclusion part.

5. Revision of a Profile Essay

Once students complete the first draft, they should revise a profile essay to eliminate any errors, which may result in the audience deriving the wrong meaning from particular statements. During revision, learners assess the suitability of the audience and voice, the correctness of a thesis statement, rationality of the arrangement of body paragraphs, and the quality of evidence. Then, authors should take a break of a few hours or a whole day before revising a profile essay because it increases their objectivity. Moreover, writers may use a checklist to guide a revision process to guarantee that they do not neglect any of the items on the assessment criteria. Besides individual revision, students may subject their profile essays to peer review, which provides them with useful feedback on the meaning-related flaws of a paper.

6. Editing of a Profile Essay

The editing stage yields the final draft of a profile essay after it eliminates surface errors and ascertains the clarity and effectiveness of sentences. Basically, surface errors are mistakes that affect the readability of a profile essay, such as spelling errors, comma splices, sentence fragments, verb errors, and pronoun errors. Then, parallelism, incomplete sentences, dangling modifiers, and unclear pronoun references are issues that students consider when evaluating the clarity of sentences. Moreover, authors examine the sentence structure and length, use of appropriate language, smoothness of transitions, and succinctness of sentences to determine its effectiveness. In turn, writers should conduct editing for surface errors, clarity, and effectiveness in three different readings of a profile essay because of the expansive nature of dimensions of editing.

Example of Writing a Profile Essay

Topic: What It Takes to Be a Successful Entrepreneur

I. Introduction Sample of a Profile Essay

At 35 years, Abraham Jake is the youngest billionaire in the tech industry. In particular, Jake is the founder, owner, and chief executive officer of Futuristic Tech, which is a company that manufactures microprocessors for Apple, Intel, Dell, and other leading electronics firms. Moreover, an interview with Jake reveals some experiences that are responsible for his exceptional character as an entrepreneur. In turn, Jake’s failures and numerous bouts with fear and optimism in decision making shape his solitary lifestyle.

II. Examples of Body Paragraphs in a Profile Essay

A. 1st body paragraph: character traits.

Failure is a dominant theme in Jake’s life, which makes perseverance one of his readily observable character traits. During the period between 2005 and 2015, Jake began five different businesses that collapsed within eight months of opening. Particularly, the fifth business crippled Jake financially, which left him with bank loans and no savings. In this case, the constant failure in setting up a business took a toll on Jake because he found himself in a vicious cycle of saving heavily only to losing everything. Furthermore, the strain of performing at work while trying to build a business left him mentally and physically exhausted. On multiple occasions, Jack was at the brink of quitting on his dream to open his own business each time he had to shut down the business after months of struggling to keep it afloat without any success.

B. 2nd Body Paragraph: Fear and Optimism

The balance between the pull of fear and optimism defines Jake’s decision making strategy. For example, Jake sarcastically laughed as he said, “fearfulness and optimism are equally dangerous but learning how and when to call upon these traits is a lifelong endeavor.” Basically, it took Jake four months after to finally shut down the first business after seeing red flags that he knew were not reversible. Conversely, it took him two weeks to decide to close down his fifth business. Moreover, Jake experienced situations where he had to make decisions that hinged on his fear of losing capital and optimistic beliefs of the business’s recovery. In turn, Jake does not claim that the decision to close a business became any more straightforward. Instead, he suggests that one becomes more comfortable when faced with these decisions, which improves an individual’s decision-making abilities.

C. 3rd Body Paragraph: Solitary Lifestyle

Jake notes that he became accustomed to a solitary lifestyle, which he believes is a consequence of the lack of time to build meaningful relationships. Jake recounts a particular six-month period where he did not attend any social gathering or event. In a voice burdened with disappointment, Jake remarked, “if there is one thing that I regret about my entrepreneurial journey is the loss of friendships and lovers.” In this case, Jake’s attempt to juggle full-time employment and the running of a company left him with very little time to spare for nurturing personal relationships. Also, he lost touch with friends and could not keep up with the time demands of an intimate relationship. Eventually, Jake’s dual-focus lifestyle left him with professional relationships, which had minimal value when he needed emotional support.

III. Conclusion Sample of a Profile Essay

Jake’s past played a critical role in the emergence of the successful businessman we see today. Basically, consistent failure at opening a business is responsible for his “never give up” attitude. In this case, understanding the complicated relationship between fear and optimism gives Jake a sense of control when making tough choices. In turn, Jake recognizes that he leads a solitary lifestyle, although he is not proud of it. Thus, Jake’s personality shows that rational and emotional aspects play equally important roles in the success of an entrepreneur.

• Students should plan the writing process to ensure that they do not skip or rush through any step.
• Interviews or observation sessions should rely on specific guiding questions that authors design to generate content for writing a profile essay.
• Writers should refrain from including their opinions or steering the audience toward a particular conclusion.
• A profile essay should contain detailed descriptions.

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Introduction to the Profile

by Kate Geiselman, Sinclair Community College

The purpose of a profile is to give the reader new insight into a particular person, place, or event. The distinction between a profile and, for example, a memoir or a biography is that a profile relies on newly acquired knowledge. It is a first-hand account of someone or something as told by the writer. You have probably read profiles of famous or interesting people in popular magazines or newspapers. Travel and science publications may profile interesting or unusual places. All of these are, in effect, observation essays. A curious writer gathers as much information as s/he can about a subject, and then presents it in an engaging way. A good profile shows the reader something new or unexpected about the subject.

Dialogue, description, specific narrative action, and vivid details are all effective means of profiling your subject. Engage your reader’s senses. Give them a sense of what it’s like to be in a particular place. Try to show your reader what’s behind the scenes of a familiar place or activity, or introduce them to someone unique.

A profile is not strictly objective. Rather than merely reporting facts, a profile works to create a dominant impression. The focus of a profile is on the subject, not on the writer’s experience. However, the writer is still “present” in a profile, as it is s/he who selects which details to reveal and decides what picture they want to paint. It is the writer’s job to use the information and writing strategies that best contribute to this dominant impression, which was a concept discussed in the narrative introduction as well.

Above all, a profile should have a clear angle. In other words, there should be an idea or purpose guiding it. Why do you think your subject is something other people will be interested in reading about? What is the impression you hope to convey? The answer to these questions will help you discover your angle.

Writing Strategies for Profiles

Conducting research.

Observation

The best way to conduct research about your subject is to observe it firsthand. Once you have decided on a topic, you should spend some time gathering information about it. If you decide to profile a place, pay a visit to it and take notes. Write down everything you can; you can decide later whether or not it’s relevant. If you have a smartphone, take pictures or make recordings to refer to later. Most people think of observing as something you do with your eyes, but try to use of all of your senses. Smells, sounds, and sensations will add texture to your descriptions. You may also spend time observing your subject at his/her work or in different contexts. Again, write everything down so you don’t forget the key details. Remember, it’s the specific details that will distinguish the great profiles from the merely proficient ones.

Interviewing If you choose to profile a person, you will want to conduct an interview with him/her. Before doing so, plan what you are going to ask. You probably have a good idea of why this person will be a good subject for a profile, so be sure your questions reflect that. Saying “tell me about yourself” is unlikely to get your subject talking. Saying, “tell me what it was like to be the first person in your family to go to college,” will get a much more specific answer.

Organizing your profile Once you have gathered all of your information, it’s time to start thinking about how to organize it. There are all different ways to write a profile, but the most common organizational strategies are chronological, spatial, and topical. Most profiles are some combination of the three.

Chronological order is presenting details as they happened in time, from start to finish. A chronological profile of a person might talk about their past, work up to their present, and maybe even go on to plans for the future. A chronological profile of an event might begin and end when the event itself does, narrating the events between in the order they happened. If you’re profiling a place, a chronological profile might begin with your first impressions arriving there and end with your departure. The advantage to writing in chronological order is that your writing will unfold naturally and transition easily from start to finish. The disadvantage, though, is that strict chronological order can get tedious. Merely recounting a conversation or experience can be dry, and can also pull focus from the subject onto the writer’s experience.

Spatial organization is presenting information as it occurs in space or by location. This is a great choice if you’re writing about a place. Think of it as taking your reader on a tour: from room to room of a house, for example. For an event, you might move your reader from place to place. If you are writing about a concert, for instance, you might describe the venue from the outside, then the seating area, then the stage. Spatial organization can even work for a person, depending on your focus. Try profiling a person at home, work, and school, for example.

Topical organization is just what it sounds like: one topic at a time. Think first of what you want to say about a person or place and organize details and information by subject. A profile of a person might talk about their home life, their work, and their hobbies. A topical profile of a place might focus on the physical space, the people who inhabit it, its historical significance, etc. Look at the information you gather from observation and/or interviewing and see if any topics stand out, and organize your paper around them. Most profiles are some combination of chronological, spatial, and topical organization. A profile might begin with a chronological narrative of a hockey game, and then flashback to provide some background information about the star player. Then it might go on to talk about that player’s philosophy of the sport, returning to the narrative about the game later on. As you read the sample essays, notice how the writers choose details and arrange them in order to create a specific impression.

Using description Vivid descriptions are key in a profile. They immerse your reader in the subject and add texture and depth to your writing. However, describing something is more than deploying as many adjectives as possible. In fact, the best descriptions may not have any adjectives at all. They rely instead on sensory detail and figurative language. Sensory detail is exactly what it sounds like: appealing to as many of the reader’s senses as possible. Adjectives can be vague, and even subjective. Think about this example:

“My grandmother always smelled good.”

What does good mean? What does good smell like? Do we even agree on what kinds of things smell good? Instead, try this:

“My grandmother always smelled good: like Shalimar, Jergen’s lotion, and menthol cigarettes.”

Now your reader knows much more. Perhaps they are even familiar enough with those scents that they can imagine what that combination would smell like. Moreover, you have delivered some emotional information here. Not every reader would agree that the smell of cigarettes is “good,” but perhaps that smell is comforting to you because you associate it so strongly with someone you care about. Of course, smell is not the only sense you can appeal to. Sights, sounds, temperatures and tastes will also enliven your writing.

Figurative language can add depth and specificity to your descriptions. Use metaphors, similes, comparisons and images creatively and purposefully. Consider the following:

“She was so beautiful.”

“Beautiful” just doesn’t tell us much. It is, like “good,” both vague and subjective. We don’t all have the same standards of beauty, nor is beauty one particular quality. Try a comparison instead:

“She was so beautiful that conversation stopped every time she entered a room.”

True, we don’t know much about what she looks like, but we do know that nearly everyone finds her striking.

Similes (comparisons using like or as) are not only efficient, but are also more vivid than adjectives. Compare these two sentences:

“He was short and muscular.” vs. “He was built like a bulldog.”

Write With Clarity

by Joseph M. Moxley, Writing Commons

Considering point of view Because a profile is a first-hand account, you will need to consider point of view carefully. Many profiles are written entirely in third person. Others use first person. Different instructors may have different expectations, so be sure to consult your assignment guidelines to see what your options are. In a third-person profile, the writer is not “present” in the writing. S/he does not refer to his/her own actions or use first-person pronouns, but is more of an objective observer or “fly on the wall.” Most journalistic profiles are written from this point of view. The advantage of using third person is that it places your subject firmly at the center of your paper. In a first-person profile, the writer is an active participant, sharing his/her observations with the reader. First person narration closes the distance between writer and reader and makes the subject feel more personal. On the downside, it can pull focus from your subject. If you use first person, be sure you’re not intruding on your subject too much or making the piece about you.

From: The First Person By Fredrik deBoer, Writing Commons

Using appropriate verb tense Often, profiles will be written in present tense. This gives the reader the sense that s/he is “there,” experiencing the subject along with the writer. Present tense lends a sense of immediacy and intimacy that past tense may not. It may also help the writer stay focused on the “here and now,” rather than reflecting on the past, as s/he might in a memoir. Other times, writers may need to shift tenses to talk about previous events or background information. Be sure to use verb tenses carefully, shifting only purposefully, correctly, and when the subject demands it. You can read more on tense shifts here.

Finding a topic and an angle Virtually anything can be the subject of a profile. What matters is that you have something to say about it. People are an endless source of material; everyone has a story. Make a list of people you know who

– have lived through important historical events: war, the civil rights era, the Depression, etc. – have been through challenging experiences: survived a major health crisis, difficult childhood, etc. – have an unusual job or hobby, or special talent or skill. – have unique personalities: they are eccentric, funny, selfless, energetic, artistic, etc.

Places can be equally interesting. Consider a local establishment, a natural wonder, a festival or celebration, a landmark, a museum, a gathering place, etc. What makes that place interesting and worth visiting? What makes it special or noteworthy?

Don’t just think about what you want to write about; instead, think about what you want to say about it. Why is it interesting to you, and why might your audience find it worth reading about?

Student Paper Rationale

For an assignment to write a profile essay, Joshua Dawson described his purpose and audience: “This essay is about my grandmother and how she overcame the hardships of life. [. . .] The purpose of this essay is to show how a woman can be tough and can take anything life throws at her. I hope the essay reaches students who have a single parent and those who don’t know what a single parent goes through.” Joshua showed a clear idea of what he wanted his essay to do.

Sample profiles As you read the sample profiles provided or linked in this chapter, consider the following:

• What dominant impression is the writer trying to convey?
• How effectively does the writer use sensory detail and figurative language?
• What is the writer’s point of view (first person, third person, or mixed)?
• How is the profile organized (chronological, spatial, topical, or some combination thereof)?
• What tense does the writer use, and what effect does this have?

Profile Example

The following profile was excerpted from pp. 64- 68: Girard, Rosemary, “The professional writer’s many personae: Creative nonfiction, popular writing, speechwriting, and personal narrative” (2015). Senior Honors Projects, 2010-current. 109. https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/honors201019/109

Joseph Larson, who surprised everyone but himself

Sometimes in life we think we have drive. Then we hear stories like *Joseph Larson’s. *Name has been changed for privacy

If you happen to catch Joseph Larson grabbing his double shot espresso every morning, he looks much like the suit-and-tie, briefcase-in-hand worker we expect to brush elbows with some of the government’s most influential employees.

Every morning, he makes the fifteen-minute walk from his home in Northern Virginia to the metro station and commutes on the Orange and Green Lines to Washington, D.C. I’ve made a similar Arlington-to-Washington commute during rush hour, observing the hard-faced, overtired, overachieving men and women in suits whom I’d like to offer a smile and a cup of strong coffee. But something tells me Larson would catch my eye. Even if I weren’t aware of his profession, something about the quizzical, concentrated, and analytical way he was reading the newspaper might tip me off: he’s a lawyer.

But he’s not the guy with an earpiece in, swiping and tapping his iPhone screen. He’s the kind of man who—perhaps by his legal training, but more likely because of his inherent disposition—pensively absorbs information; the kind of man who, on a daily basis, makes critical legal decisions, yet is far beyond the intellectual limits of taking one’s self too seriously.

One thing I wouldn’t guess about Larson by my metro observation, though, is this: he is a high school dropout. Without a high school diploma, or even a GED, to his name, Larson climbed himself out of a broken family, an abandoned home, and a completely “adult” life thrust upon him at the shy age of ten years old.

Growing up in the Los Angeles basin, Larson spent the first ten or eleven years of his life in what he described vividly as a typical one-story, single-family house in the foothills of the San Bernadino mountains. He fondly recalled running barefoot and shirtless through the orange and lemon groves surrounding his house, basking in the 70s-and-sunny atmosphere of Southern California.

Larson described himself as a great student who enjoyed performing well and achieving good grades. “At the start of the year in second grade they gave me some tests and sent me to a third grade class,” he explained. But being a year younger and physically smaller than his classmates, Larson felt socially removed from his peers (he joked that, standing about 5’5” now, he was small to begin with). “I spent a lot of time in the library at recess instead of on the playground. I read a lot and was a bit reclusive.”

Still today, there’s something quite reserved yet so present about his demeanor—the type of person who often lets the extroverts of the world do the talking, but, when prompted, could shock any loudmouth to silence with his quick wit and unwavering knowledge on a subject of anyone’s choosing.

At about the same time that his home life became shaken, his time spent at school grew a bit rockier as well. “I remember around sixth grade being unwilling to accept authority that I felt was unjust,” he described. “I mostly got along with teachers, but there were a couple of really insecure, bullying types, and I really didn’t accept that well.”

As Larson read about and studied education, he became increasingly convinced that the school system he belonged to was flawed. “I was openly critical of some of my teachers’ methods, which landed me in the principal’s office,” he admitted. “I remember telling one poor science teacher in middle school that he was wasting our time.”

Behind the series of disagreements between Larson and his teachers, however, was a childhood falling apart at its seams. “My parents were really smart and loving people, and we had a very close family until I was about ten or eleven years old,” Larson said. “At that point, my family began to fall apart. My poor mother had a very rough time of it, and I ended up taking care of her while she went through a very difficult self-destructive stage after my father left.”

Larson revealed that while his mother did wind up marrying a nice guy, it only followed after a couple remarriages and various failed relationships. Amid these unsteady relationships, however, the men his mother kept as company were neither friendly nor accepting of having Larson around. He and his mother lost contact for quite a while. His relationship with his father wasn’t much better. “My father was mostly absent after that point in my life,” Larson said. “He tried to stay in touch, and I know he really loved me and my sister, but he was busy living his life, so we didn’t spend much time together.” His older sister, likewise, had a difficult time adjusting to the family’s new dynamic and lived with her boyfriends in the years following.

“My family house was vacant, as my father had left and my mother had moved out, and I actually lived there alone for a while, until the house was sold as a part of their divorce and I had to find another place to sleep,” Larson explained. “It was just as well, as the house kind of gave me nightmares—I’m sure just remnants of the family I had lost.”

Surprisingly, Larson remained confident, self-sufficient, and found various jobs as he tackled his newfound independence as a youngster. He didn’t get into trouble and seemed satisfied with the freedom he acquired, kept an emotional distance from others, and grew a hard shell.

Still, the combination of his battered home life and his resistance to the school system culminated in his decision to leave high school. “I gradually came to the realization when I got to high school that I had better things to do than sit in a classroom. I had really read a lot about education at that point, and became convinced that I could pretty much learn what I needed to learn in other ways,” he said.

So, he stuck out his sophomore year, got straight As to prove he could handle the work, and then dropped out.

“This was absolutely perfect for me at the time, since I really was living from one friend’s apartment floor to the next, and loved the anonymity. It was really liberating, and I was perfectly happy to move on,” Larson recalled. “It was insanely easy for a kid that age, at that time, to kind of disappear into the suburban landscape.”

Hearing Larson’s viewpoints toward formal education at the time is reminiscent of a California-bred, more put-together, Will Hunting—minus the attitude and the bitterness. It seemed clear to Larson that learning was a matter beyond the confines of structured education; no matter if he maintained enrollment at an institution, his desire to learn would naturally crop up in all aspects of his life.

After leaving high school, Larson made his living from a variety of small jobs— everything from dishwashing, bussing tables, cooking fast food, painting houses, and working as a tech in animal hospitals. He explained that he never spent money on anything other than food, so these jobs were sufficient.

Describing himself as having long hair and dressing poorly, Larson became a “hippie” and protested the Vietnam War at a young age. “I was fascinated by the counterculture, and read a lot,” Larson remembered. Still a lover of literature, Larson read everything “from Ginsburg’s poetry (‘Howl’) to Ken Kesey (‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’) to Thoreau’s ‘Walden’ and pretty much everything written by Hermann Hesse.” He often hitchhiked to get around, and made trips to the San Francisco area as it was a “Mecca” for hippies at the time.

It wasn’t until he was about seventeen that he truly acknowledged the wounds he’d never healed. After attending a self-development course, Larson was able to tap into deep seated feelings about those turbulent years. Surprised at his own grief after years of independence, he admitted, “I was shocked to find that I was heartbroken by the loss of my happy family and cried and cried about it at the training. I had a chance to grieve the loss, finally, which I think helped me move on.”

Despite his resistance to formal education in his early years, Larson was still an academic at heart. Soon, he grew bored of his life without the thrill of education in it, so he enrolled in several courses at the local community college as well as the local State Polytechnic University (Cal Poly Pomona). Meanwhile, Larson landed a job in a lab at the City of Hope where he assisted in lab work on animals for human disease research. “The doctors in the lab took an interest in me and encouraged me to get a degree,” he said. “I applied to the University of California at San Diego and was shocked to find I got in.”

At UCSD, Larson studied Linguistics and fell in love with it. He also enrolled in a French class, which led to him studying abroad. Describing himself as an opportunist, Larson discovered that he could get a student loan and spend a year in France during his junior year without working. After graduating from UCSD, he soon attended American University for law school.

Larson recalled a conversation he had with the registrar at American University about his lack of a high school degree or GED. “I remember the registrar looking at my transcript and noting, shocked, that I never graduated from high school. I remember asking if that was going to be a problem, but she just said, ‘No, I just haven’t ever seen this before!’”

What is perhaps most notable about Larson is the normalcy with which he treats his road to success and his forgiveness of the situation he was tossed into. “I think everyone has adversity and challenges,” Larson said. “I loved the freedom I had as a youngster. I think it gave me a great deal of confidence, and I had some amazing experiences.”

Speaking to his humility and compassion, Larson actually attributed much of his success to his family. Remembering his early childhood fondly, Larson feels grateful for the love his family showed him in his early years. Being rooted in such a solid foundation was key when Larson was forced to make difficult choices later on.

Although it may not have been the easiest path, Larson was always confident in his ability to rise out of life’s challenges. “There was the occasional reality check, those times grilling burgers with a jerk for a boss, or loading trucks late at night, which would motivate me,” he said. “I always knew I would do more than those jobs, and those tough realities are just the thing to motivate a person to move on.”

There seems to be something intrinsically laced in Larson’s character that drives him to success and is fueled by a love for learning—something beyond motivation and the often shallow push from parents to succeed, which Larson lacked anyway in his formative years. Looking at his background on paper, I’d expect to find Larson, at worst, drug addicted and alone. At best, still cooking fast food and struggling to make ends meet. But seeing the challenges he’s faced as opportunities, Larson doesn’t see that there were any other options: he had to succeed.

In his own California-roots fashion, Joseph Larson takes time to absorb and study the world around him. He has an appreciation for those who have chosen to live life differently, and he values the family and life he now has. He’s been given the opportunity to decide what he wanted to do and who he wanted to be, and so he invites others to do the same.

“What motivates us ultimately to do what we do, to me, is still a big mystery,” he said.

This speaks to Larson’s enigmatic self as well. He had every opportunity to fail, was the thought that pervasively and dogmatically prodded at my mind. And yet, with tenacity that is difficult to fathom, he picked up the pieces his family left behind and, without a blink, proved he had every tool to succeed.

When the necktie comes off, it drags with it all stereotypical assumptions we might have conjured about this metropolitan man. It’s anyone’s game as to what Larson is up to once he steps out of lawyer mode (although, if it’s trivia or crossword puzzles, I’ve been warned not to challenge him). Often, he’s tending to the various animals for which he couldn’t refuse a place in his home. He’s watching the Washington Nationals game over dinner. He’s putting that suit and tie back on for a night at The Shakespeare Theatre in DC. He’s listening to everything from Native American flute music to Neil Young. Or, he is—after multiple hip replacements on both sides—running and training for his next marathon.

Amid the surprises and the proved-everyone-wrongs, perhaps only three things are certain about Joseph Larson: his love of learning, his love of life, and that double shot espresso.

The following profile examples are under copyright but can be accessed through the links :

• Joanna Walters: “Inside the Rehab Saving Young Men from their Internet Addiction” – https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/jun/16/internet-addiction-gaming-restart-therapy-washington
• DeNeen Brown: “Six-Pack Abs at Age 74” – https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/magazine/six-pack-abs-at-age-74-age-is-nothing-but-a-number-says-guinness-world-records-oldest-competitive-female-bodybuilder/2011/03/16/AG5lGvCH_story.html?utm_term=.f87c99f9b7d0
• Bill Laitner: “Heart and Sole: Detroiter’s Lengthy Commute Part of Life” – https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/news/local/2015/02/02/heart-sole-detroiters-lengthy-commute-part-life/22656077/
• Werner Herzog, From One Second to the Next: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk1vCqfYpos

Write What Matters Copyright © 2020 by Liza Long; Amy Minervini; and Joel Gladd is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Profile Essays: Overview

Introduction to the profile essay.

The purpose of a profile is to give the reader new insight into a particular person, place, or event. The distinction between a profile and, for example, a memoir or a biography is that a profile relies on newly acquired knowledge. It is a first-hand account of someone or something as told by the writer. You have probably read profiles of famous or interesting people in popular magazines or newspapers. Travel and science publications may profile interesting or unusual places. All of these are, in effect, observation essays. A curious writer gathers as much information as s/he can about a subject, and then presents it in an engaging way. A good profile shows the reader something new or unexpected about the subject.

Dialogue, description, specific narrative action, and vivid details are all effective means of profiling your subject. Engage your reader’s senses. Give them a sense of what it’s like to be in a particular place. Try to show your reader what’s behind the scenes of a familiar place or activity, or introduce them to someone unique.

A profile is not strictly objective. Rather than merely reporting facts, a profile works to create a dominant impression. The focus of a profile is on the subject, not on the writer’s experience. However, the writer is still “present” in a profile, as it is s/he who selects which details to reveal and decides what picture they want to paint. It is the writer’s job to use the information and writing strategies that best contribute to this dominant impression, which was a concept discussed in the narrative introduction as well.

Above all, a profile should have a clear angle. In other words, there should be an idea or purpose guiding it. Why do you think your subject is something other people will be interested in reading about? What is the impression you hope to convey? The answer to these questions will help you discover your angle.

Writing Strategies for Profiles

Conducting research.

Observation

The best way to conduct research about your subject is to observe it firsthand. Once you have decided on a topic, you should spend some time gathering information about it. If you decide to profile a place, pay a visit to it and take notes. Write down everything you can; you can decide later whether or not it’s relevant. If you have a smartphone, take pictures or make recordings to refer to later. Most people think of observing as something you do with your eyes, but try to use of all of your senses. Smells, sounds, and sensations will add texture to your descriptions. You may also spend time observing your subject at his/her work or in different contexts. Again, write everything down so you don’t forget the key details. Remember, it’s the specific details that will distinguish the great profiles from the merely proficient ones.

Interviewing If you choose to profile a person, you will want to conduct an interview with him/her. Before doing so, plan what you are going to ask. You probably have a good idea of why this person will be a good subject for a profile, so be sure your questions reflect that. Saying “tell me about yourself” is unlikely to get your subject talking. Saying, “tell me what it was like to be the first person in your family to go to college,” will get a much more specific answer.

Organizing your profile Once you have gathered all of your information, it’s time to start thinking about how to organize it. There are all different ways to write a profile, but the most common organizational strategies are chronological, spatial, and topical. Most profiles are some combination of the three.

Chronological order  is presenting details as they happened in time, from start to finish. A chronological profile of a person might talk about their past, work up to their present, and maybe even go on to plans for the future. A chronological profile of an event might begin and end when the event itself does, narrating the events between in the order they happened. If you’re profiling a place, a chronological profile might begin with your first impressions arriving there and end with your departure. The advantage to writing in chronological order is that your writing will unfold naturally and transition easily from start to finish. The disadvantage, though, is that strict chronological order can get tedious. Merely recounting a conversation or experience can be dry, and can also pull focus from the subject onto the writer’s experience.

Spatial organization  is presenting information as it occurs in space or by location. This is a great choice if you’re writing about a place. Think of it as taking your reader on a tour: from room to room of a house, for example. For an event, you might move your reader from place to place. If you are writing about a concert, for instance, you might describe the venue from the outside, then the seating area, then the stage. Spatial organization can even work for a person, depending on your focus. Try profiling a person at home, work, and school, for example.

Topical organization  is just what it sounds like: one topic at a time. Think first of what you want to say about a person or place and organize details and information by subject. A profile of a person might talk about their home life, their work, and their hobbies. A topical profile of a place might focus on the physical space, the people who inhabit it, its historical significance, etc. Look at the information you gather from observation and/or interviewing and see if any topics stand out, and organize your paper around them. Most profiles are some combination of chronological, spatial, and topical organization. A profile might begin with a chronological narrative of a hockey game, and then flashback to provide some background information about the star player. Then it might go on to talk about that player’s philosophy of the sport, returning to the narrative about the game later on. As you read the sample essays, notice how the writers choose details and arrange them in order to create a specific impression.

Using description Vivid descriptions are key in a profile. They immerse your reader in the subject and add texture and depth to your writing. However, describing something is more than deploying as many adjectives as possible. In fact, the best descriptions may not have any adjectives at all. They rely instead on sensory detail and figurative language. Sensory detail is exactly what it sounds like: appealing to as many of the reader’s senses as possible. Adjectives can be vague, and even subjective. Think about this example:

“My grandmother always smelled good.”

What does good mean? What does good smell like? Do we even agree on what kinds of things smell good? Instead, try this:

“My grandmother always smelled good: like Shalimar, Jergen’s lotion, and menthol cigarettes.”

Now your reader knows much more. Perhaps they are even familiar enough with those scents that they can imagine what that combination would smell like. Moreover, you have delivered some emotional information here. Not every reader would agree that the smell of cigarettes is “good,” but perhaps that smell is comforting to you because you associate it so strongly with someone you care about. Of course, smell is not the only sense you can appeal to. Sights, sounds, temperatures and tastes will also enliven your writing.

Figurative language can add depth and specificity to your descriptions. Use metaphors, similes, comparisons and images creatively and purposefully. Consider the following:

“She was so beautiful.”

“Beautiful” just doesn’t tell us much. It is, like “good,” both vague and subjective. We don’t all have the same standards of beauty, nor is beauty one particular quality. Try a comparison instead:

“She was so beautiful that conversation stopped every time she entered a room.”

True, we don’t know much about what she looks like, but we do know that nearly everyone finds her striking.

Similes (comparisons using like or as) are not only efficient, but are also more vivid than adjectives. Compare these two sentences:

“He was short and muscular.”   vs.   “He was built like a bulldog.”

Write With Clarity

Considering point of view Because a profile is a first-hand account, you will need to consider point of view carefully. Many profiles are written entirely in third person. Others use first person. Different instructors may have different expectations, so be sure to consult your assignment guidelines to see what your options are. In a third-person profile, the writer is not “present” in the writing. S/he does not refer to his/her own actions or use first-person pronouns, but is more of an objective observer or “fly on the wall.” Most journalistic profiles are written from this point of view. The advantage of using third person is that it places your subject firmly at the center of your paper. In a first-person profile, the writer is an active participant, sharing his/her observations with the reader. First person narration closes the distance between writer and reader and makes the subject feel more personal. On the downside, it can pull focus from your subject. If you use first person, be sure you’re not intruding on your subject too much or making the piece about you.

Using appropriate verb tense Often, profiles will be written in present tense. This gives the reader the sense that s/he is “there,” experiencing the subject along with the writer. Present tense lends a sense of immediacy and intimacy that past tense may not. It may also help the writer stay focused on the “here and now,” rather than reflecting on the past, as s/he might in a memoir. Other times, writers may need to shift tenses to talk about previous events or background information. Be sure to use verb tenses carefully, shifting only purposefully, correctly, and when the subject demands it. You can read more on tense shifts here.

Finding a topic and an angle Virtually anything can be the subject of a profile. What matters is that you have something to say about it. People are an endless source of material; everyone has a story. Make a list of people you know who

– have lived through important historical events: war, the civil rights era, the Depression, etc. – have been through challenging experiences: survived a major health crisis, difficult childhood, etc. – have an unusual job or hobby, or special talent or skill. – have unique personalities: they are eccentric, funny, selfless, energetic, artistic, etc.

Places can be equally interesting. Consider a local establishment, a natural wonder, a festival or celebration, a landmark, a museum, a gathering place, etc. What makes that place interesting and worth visiting? What makes it special or noteworthy?

Don’t just think about what you want to write about; instead, think about what you want to say about it. Why is it interesting to you, and why might your audience find it worth reading about?

Student Paper Rationale

For an assignment to write a profile essay, Joshua Dawson described his purpose and audience: “This essay is about my grandmother and how she overcame the hardships of life. [. . .] The purpose of this essay is to show how a woman can be tough and can take anything life throws at her. I hope the essay reaches students who have a single parent and those who don’t know what a single parent goes through.” Joshua showed a clear idea of what he wanted his essay to do.

Sources Used to Create This Chapter

The majority of the content for this section has been adapted from the following OER Material:

• Write What Matters by Liza Long and Amy Minervini, and Joel Gladd, which was published under a CC-BY-NC-SA 4.0 license.

Starting the Journey: An Intro to College Writing Copyright © by Leonard Owens III; Tim Bishop; and Scott Ortolano is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Profile Essay

Writing a profile essay is challenging to students because it is rarely taught in the other levels of education. In order to write a good profile essay, you need to be equipped with the right tools. You need adequate preparation and the right resources. A profile essay is used by students for journalism purposes. Before starting with your essay, it is important to follow all the guidelines and instructions given.

First, you need to know the purpose of this essay. This is to give the reader a complete description of your subject. It should keep the reader engaged and captivated. For your essay to be interesting choose a unique subject. Profile essays, like other essays, follow a certain structure.

The Structure of a Profile Essay

Introduction.

This is the first part of your essay; it serves as the face of your work. How you introduce your essay will determine the reader’s reception. The introduction should be kept at a minimum. Explain the meaning of the topic and give the main points of your essay. Keep the introduction interesting by using quotes, conversations and dialogues, and short stories. When writing a profile essay example for college tailor it in a way that the reader who is your instructor will find interesting. Use facts that can be verified and give examples as your evidence.

This is the part that carries most of the weight of your essay. It contains all the main points in different paragraphs. Each paragraph contains an idea that is explained in details. Write the body in an orderly manner guided by the introduction. All the main points must be explained in the body. In order for your work to be captivating, make sure that the ideas run smooth and follow a chronological order.

The conclusion puts all your essay points in simple words. Introducing a new point at this level is useless, and it spoils the flow of your essay. Use a few sentences to wrap up your work but make sure they connect the contents of the introduction and body.

Tips to Consider When Choosing a Subject

Choose a subject who can be reached in case you are to conduct an interview.

Select an interesting subject who will give many points

Make adequate research concerning your subject. In an example of a personality profile essay, make enough research and be detailed with facts and correct information.

Remember to follow all the instructions given for the choice of a subject

The subject of the essay is the basis of your work; therefore, make sure you choose them wisely. All subjects should be treated with dignity and respect although you might dislike them. You should approach the subject with an open mind so as to capture all the details of the information they give you. Before meeting a subject for an interview, you will need to gather as much information as you can about them.

Visit the library and online sources that are rich in such resources. An example of a profile essay about a world leader can easily be obtained from reliable online sources and public libraries. Books, magazines, and journals provide insights about the details of a profile essay. Reading from diverse sources gives you a broad understanding of all the details, styles, language, structure, and even the smallest details that are easy to forget. Remember to use an updated source to avoid including obsolete details in your essay.

Check when the latest information was shared as well as its validity. This applies mostly to people, places, and events. No matter how much information you gather, make sure that your points flow easily for a clear understanding.

When writing about a subject, start with the appearance. Things like name, height, skin color and height are important when describing a subject. They are used to create the identity of a person. For example, when writing about a person give the details that make them different. When writing about a place include the name, locality and neighboring places.

Use the right tone when writing your essay. The formal tone makes an essay sound formal and neat. A profile essay is more flexible as compared to other essays. You can use the first person pronoun. Interviews require the use of first person tone. However, avoid using this as it tends to confuse and distract the readers.

Remember to organize your work either in a chronological manner or using the thematic style. The chronological manner involves giving details as the occurred. This is a timeline of events. The thematic format is putting the ideas in a thematic mode. After writing your essay, proofreading it is a great way to ensure that you have followed all the instructions given. It also helps you to correct any errors made.

An Example of Personality Profile Essay

Here is an example of personality profile essay showing how to apply the guide given:

Causes and Solutions to Poverty in the Third world Nations

Poverty is a state of being in lack of resources and the capability of feeding and sustaining one’s family. It is the inability to meet the basic needs that all human beings need. There many causes of poverty that affect different cultures. Poverty is linked to poor medical access, little or no education, and laziness. Poverty can be global, cyclical, or collective.

The obvious cause of poverty is little or no access to clean water and healthy food. Hunger and starvation is connected to poverty because people who lack energy cannot work. They lack the strength and energy needed to make a livelihood. Lack of clean water and nutritious food increases the likelihood of contracting diseases because of decreased immunity. Diseases like diarrhea cause dehydration will is fatal to people who cannot access clean water. Also, this can be dangerous where the health centers are a long distance from their residences. Using the already meager funds for treatment of a family member plunges them deeper into poverty.

Having no access to job opportunities causes poverty because one cannot sustain himself without a source of income. Many people in developing nations move to cities with the hope of securing a source of income but end up disappointed. The resources are limited and the accumulation of people makes it hard to secure a job.

Many developing nations experience clashes and political instability. These halt economic development and chase foreign investors. Many people are displaced while businesses and infrastructure are destroyed. The economy of a country takes years to build and stabilize but can be destroyed within minutes of instability. It is usually hard to recover from economic downfall. Many productive people are killed while foreigner who had a contribution to the said economy return to their countries. Destroyed business premises means that more people lose their livelihood.

There are many forms of inequalities for example discrimination based on gender, social class, religion, and minority group. In the distribution of resources, some groups receive less than they require while the rest go greedy politicians or leaders. For example, in some countries, some cities seem to be developing at a high rate while others are lagging behind

The effects of poverty affect many people in the world, but there are many solutions to reduce this. By providing means of clean water to people without access. Governments can take initiatives to create programs to teach people about the importance and methods of recycling water. This is done by putting into place sewage recycling plants that will sustain the people with enough clean water. Harvesting rainwater is also a good way of ensuring that you have a supply of clean water.

The problem of inequality can be solved by being inclusive of all parties especially when making decisions that affect many people. This means that all people will get the resources they need to develop themselves and localities.

Poverty is a global challenge and is not concentrated in a certain area of the world. The causes may vary but some remain consistent. Depending on the level of poverty and resources available different solutions can be applied. Developed countries can also lend a hand to poor countries. Poverty can be eradicated with joined efforts.

Writing a profile essay can be a hectic activity, but with the right information and preparation, you can actually find it interesting. There are many similarities of profile essay to other essays, for example, the structure which contains the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. The introduction is a simple glimpse of your essay so keep it short and precise. The body contains all the ideas explained broadly. Make sure not to mix up the information and remember to use facts that can be verified. The conclusion is a summary of all the things written in the essay.

Writing a profile essay for the first time presents a challenge to many students. But, with proper guidance, you’ll quickly find the whole exercise quite manageable. We have professionals who can help you in this regard; get in touch for more personal profile essay examples and custom essay help!

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Profile Essay Examples

Choosing the right topic for a profile essay is crucial to its success. Profile essays offer a deep dive into the subject's life, environment, or a particular aspect that makes them stand out. The beauty of profile essays lies in their flexibility and the wide range of potential subjects they can cover, from individuals to places, and from events to significant personal experiences. When selecting profile essay topics, the aim is to find a narrative that is both engaging and insightful, offering readers a window into something unique and captivating. Here are some considerations and ideas for selecting the best profile essay topics.

Our List of Best Profile Essay Topics

Crafting the best profile essays involves delving into the heart and soul of a subject, capturing their essence in a way that resonates deeply with readers. These essays stand out not just for the depth of their exploration but also for their ability to tell a compelling story. From intimate portraits of individuals to vivid descriptions of places and events, the best profile essays illuminate the richness of their subjects, offering insights and perspectives that are both enlightening and engaging. Here are ten ideas for profile essays that have the potential to rank among the best, showcasing a range of subjects that can inspire and captivate.

• Cultivating Green Spaces in the City
• Wildlife Rangers Protecting Endangered Species
• Innovations in Education: The Teachers Redefining Learning
• The Resilient Refugee: Building a New Life Far from Home
• Frontiers of the Mind: Exploring the Work of Neuroscientists
• Chefs Preserving Traditional Cuisines
• Street Artists Voicing Social Change
• Redefining Work in the 21st Century
• Marine Biologists Saving Our Oceans
• Women Leading Community Development

Some Popular Profile Essay Ideas

Exploring unique and compelling profile essay ideas allows writers to delve into the intricacies of their subjects, offering readers a vivid glimpse into diverse worlds and experiences. These essays illuminate the essence of individuals, places, events, or phenomena, providing a detailed snapshot that engages and informs. The key to a captivating profile essay lies in choosing a topic that resonates on a personal and universal level. Here are five sample topics spanning different categories, showcasing the versatility of profile essay ideas:

• The Innovator in Renewable Energy

Explore the journey of an individual pioneering sustainable solutions in renewable energy, highlighting their contributions and the impact on global environmental challenges.

• The Heart of Community Theater

Delve into the life of a director or actor in a small community theater, capturing the passion and dedication behind local performing arts and its effect on the community.

• Guardians of the Lost Arts

Profile an artisan dedicated to preserving a dying art form, from traditional weaving techniques to ancient blacksmithing, exploring the significance of keeping these traditions alive.

• The Urban Forager

Uncover the world of someone who practices urban foraging, discussing how they find, gather, and use wild food resources in a city landscape to promote sustainability and a connection to nature.

• A Day with a Mountain Guide

Follow the experiences of a mountain guide, showcasing the challenges and rewards of guiding adventurers in some of the world’s most treacherous terrains and the lessons learned amidst nature’s grandeur.

What is a Profile Essay?

A profile essay is a detailed and informative piece of writing that focuses on describing a person, place, or event. It allows the writer to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the subject by painting a vivid picture with descriptive language and specific details. Profile essays are often written in a narrative style, making them engaging and captivating for the reader. By going beyond basic information and delving into the unique aspects of the subject, profile essays can create a vibrant portrait that allows the reader to truly connect with the subject.

What Does Profile Essay Mean?

Profile essays aim to tell the story of a person, place, or event in a way that is engaging and informative. These essays focus on specific aspects of the subject’s personality, background, or experiences to create a more compelling and interesting profile. By delving into the details that make the subject unique, profile essays can capture the essence of the subject and provide readers with a deeper understanding of who or what is being profiled. Through detailed descriptions, anecdotes, and insights, profile essays create a vivid and engaging portrait that allows the reader to connect with the subject on a deeper level.

What Are The Main Goals Of Profile Essays?

The main goals of a profile essay are to engage and inform the reader by capturing the essence of the subject. This is achieved through detailed descriptions, anecdotes, and insights that provide a vibrant portrait of the subject. Profile essays aim to entertain, inspire, or challenge the reader’s perceptions by going beyond basic information and delving into the unique aspects of the subject. By creating a compelling and engaging profile, writers can truly engage and inform their readers, leaving a lasting impact on their audience.

How to Write a Good Profile Essay

To write a good profile essay, it is important to follow a few key steps. First, choose a subject that is interesting and unique to capture the reader’s attention. Then, gather reliable information about the subject through research and interviews to provide depth and insight into the profile. Creating a detailed outline can help organize your thoughts and structure your essay coherently and engagingly. Finally, using descriptive language and specific details to bring the subject to life for the reader can create a vivid and engaging portrait that truly captures the essence of the subject.

How Do I Prepare to Write Profile Essays?

Preparing to write a profile essay involves several steps to ensure a successful and engaging essay. By exploring examples of profile essays , choosing a unique and interesting topic, deciding on the writing style, gathering reliable information, and creating a detailed plan, writers can set themselves up for success. Taking the time to prepare and plan before writing can help ensure the profile essay is engaging, informative, and captivating for the reader. By following these steps, writers can create compelling and memorable profile essays that truly engage and inform their readers.

To prepare to write a profile essay, there are several steps you can take:

• Explore P rofile Writing Examples : Before you begin writing your profile essay, it can be helpful to read examples of profile essays to get a sense of the style and structure.
• Choose a Topic: Select a subject for your profile essay that is interesting, unique, and has depth.
• Find Your Writing Style: Decide on the tone and style of your profile essay, whether it is formal, informal, personal, or objective.
• Look For Reliable Information: Gather information about your subject from a variety of sources, including interviews, research, and observations.
• Create a Plan: Develop an outline for your profile essay that includes a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.

Below we will go through two main points from this list.

Explore P rofile Writing  Examples

Before embarking on their assignments, students are advised to meticulously explore profile essay examples to grasp the composition and structure of the text. For this purpose, entering “profile essay example” into a search engine will yield numerous resources. However, it is crucial to select resources that are either highly reviewed or free from errors. Additionally, educational publications frequently release compilations of various essay types, including profile writing examples, which can serve as valuable resources.

Check those profile essay examples [PDF]:

During the review of these examples, it is essential to observe the text’s organization, formatting, thematic development across paragraphs, and the employment of literary devices. Attention should also be given to the writer’s style, choice of language, and more. Importantly, examine the introduction and conclusion closely to understand how the writer engages the reader from the outset and the phrases utilized to craft a compelling closing. Note these techniques for potential incorporation into your writing.

Engage with as many examples as possible to appreciate the unique writing styles of different authors, as this can reveal nuances and techniques not evident in other works. Profile essay examples serve as a rich source of fundamental insights that may not be covered in classroom teachings.

Creating compelling profile writing examples can significantly aid students in mastering the art of profile essays. These examples not only showcase how to capture the essence of a person but also demonstrate how to weave narrative and factual information into a cohesive and engaging story. Here are two profile writing examples tailored for students, focusing on different subjects to illustrate a range of approaches.

Profile Example 1: The Innovator in the Classroom

At first glance, Mr. Jameson’s physics classroom looks like any other, filled with rows of desks and the periodic hum of fluorescent lights. However, a closer look reveals that this is no ordinary educational space. At the front of the room stands Mr. Elliot Jameson, a teacher known among students as the “Innovator.” With a passion for making physics accessible and exciting, Mr. Jameson has transformed his classroom into a dynamic learning environment where traditional lectures are rare, and hands-on experiments are the norm. Mr. Jameson’s journey into teaching was unconventional. With a background in engineering and a stint at a tech startup, he brings a unique perspective to education. He believes in teaching through failure and experimentation, a philosophy that has earned him both accolades and a few raised eyebrows from traditionalists. His methods, however, speak for themselves. Under his guidance, students who once dreaded physics now eagerly anticipate his classes, and his Physics Club has grown to be the largest in the school’s history. What sets Mr. Jameson apart is his ability to connect with students on a personal level. He spends countless hours after school tutoring students, not just in physics, but in life. His classroom is adorned with student projects, posters of scientific heroes, and a corner dedicated to failed experiments, labeled “The Learning Pit.” In Mr. Jameson’s words, “Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s a stepping stone towards it. My goal is to make my students resilient problem-solvers, ready for the challenges of the future.

Profile Example 2: The Quiet Leader

Maria Gomez stands quietly at the edge of the community garden, her hands deep in the soil. To an outsider, she might appear to be just another volunteer, but to those in the neighborhood, she is the heart and soul of this green oasis in the middle of the city. A senior at the local high school, Maria has been the driving force behind the garden’s transformation from a neglected plot of land to a vibrant community hub. Maria’s leadership style is not one of loud declarations or grand gestures. Instead, she leads by example, dedicating her weekends to the garden, tirelessly weeding, planting, and organizing community planting days. Her commitment has inspired others to join in, turning the garden into a project that has brought together people from all walks of life. Despite her quiet demeanor, Maria’s impact is undeniable. The garden has not only beautified the neighborhood but has also become a source of fresh produce for local families. Through her initiative, Maria has organized cooking classes and nutrition workshops, empowering her community with knowledge about healthy living. Reflecting on her work, Maria shares, “This garden isn’t just about growing food; it’s about growing connections. It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and every plant tells a story of collaboration and care.

This profile writing examples for students demonstrate the power of storytelling in capturing the essence of their subjects. Each profile offers a glimpse into the individuals’ lives, highlighting their achievements, philosophies, and the impact they have on those around them.

Find Your Writing Style

Cultivating a distinctive writing style is like sculpting your signature sound in a vast choir. It involves delving into what makes your perspective unique. For those embarking on crafting profile essays or enriching their narrative skills, here are ten tailored tips to guide you toward discovering and refining your writing style, with a nod to students seeking inspiration through profile essay on a person example, an example of a profile essay, and examples of profile essays:

• Diversify Your Writing : The more you write, the more refined your style becomes. Challenge yourself with a variety of genres, topics, and lengths. A personal diary or blog can serve as a sandbox for your creativity.
• Select Writing Mentors : Identify writers whose styles resonate with you. Analyze what aspects of their writing appeal to you and integrate these insights into your work, ensuring to maintain your originality.
• Broaden Your Reading Palette : Immerse yourself in a wide range of literature, from timeless classics to contemporary journalistic works. This exposure can significantly influence your style.
• Embrace Writerly Wisdom : Seek out and apply advice from accomplished writers. Even unconventional tips, like avoiding common verbs (e.g., “to be”, “to have”, and “to think”) to encourage more descriptive language, can stretch your creative muscles.
• Study Language and Craft : Delve into resources about language arts, writing techniques, and journalism. These materials are gold mines of exercises that can sharpen your writing skills.
• Eliminate Fluff Words : Scour your writing for words that offer little to no value and cut them out. This practice leads to more potent and direct expression.
• Be Wary of Repetition : Keep an eye out for needless repetition, overuse of pronouns, and reliance on the verb “to be”. Strive for variety and depth in your sentence structures.
• Zero in on a Genre : While exploring different styles is beneficial, specializing in a specific genre can help you deepen your expertise. Study its conventions and reader expectations to enhance your proficiency.
• Experiment with Narrative Voices : Play with different points of view and narrative voices to discover what best suits your story and style. Each perspective offers unique advantages and challenges.
• Practice Critical Self-Review : Regularly review your writing with a critical eye. Identify patterns, strengths, and areas for improvement. Peer feedback can also provide valuable insights into your style’s effectiveness.

By integrating these strategies into your practice, you can develop a writing style that is unmistakably yours, whether you’re crafting a profile essay on a person, searching for the perfect example of a profile essay, or exploring the broader realm of profile essays and writing examples for students.

How to Write a Profile Essay?

Starting to write a profile essay involves several key steps to ensure a successful and engaging essay. By getting the right information about the subject, validating the information through research and interviews, outlining the essay to create a cohesive structure, and revising or proofreading for clarity and accuracy, writers can set themselves up for success. Taking the necessary steps to prepare and plan before writing can help ensure the profile essay is engaging, informative, and captivating for the reader. With practice and dedication, writers can hone their profile writing skills and create compelling and memorable essays that truly engage and inspire their readers.

• Step 1: Get the Right Information: Before you start writing your profile essay, make sure you have gathered all the necessary information about your subject.
• Step 2: Validate Your Information: Verify the accuracy of the information you have collected through research and interviews.
• Step 3: Outline Your Essay: Create a detailed outline for your profile essay that includes a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Step 4: Revise or Proofread Your Profile Essay: Once you have completed your profile essay, take the time to revise and proofread it to ensure clarity, accuracy, and coherence.

In conclusion, writing a profile essay can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a compelling and informative profile that captures the essence of your subject. Remember to choose a unique and interesting topic, gather reliable information, and use descriptive language to bring your subject to life. With practice and dedication, you can master the art of profile writing and create memorable essays that engage and inspire your readers.

Remember to maintain objectivity, seek feedback, and thoroughly revise your essay for clarity and coherence.

Steps to Writing a Profile Essay Structure

Regarding your profile essay structure , it must include the following sections: 

• Introduction with the basic background information about the person, event, or activity that you describe. Introduction with the basic background information about the person, event, or activity that you describe. Start your profile essay with an engaging introduction that introduces the subject and sets the tone for the rest of the essay.
• The list of facts with the timeline if you are talking about a certain period. 
• A paragraph about the general social perception of your topic and the reasons why your subject is important. 
• Three to five body paragraphs that focus on important facts about your topic. The general idea is to use one fact per paragraph to keep things accurate and well-structured. 
• An analytical paragraph where you talk about your thoughts and the reasons why you have chosen certain facts and how they affected your studies, society, or what importance is posed for your course. 
• A conclusion paragraph. This is where you sum your ideas up and focus on the key facts that have been mentioned. 
• References page. Since we are dealing with the facts that need evidence, the use of citations is paramount for a successful profile essay structure. 

See our free profile essay example and don’t forget to check our profile essay checklist to ensure that nothing has been missed by accident: 

✔️ Provide interesting details and facts. ✔️ Keep your style and tone neutral. ✔️ Use a unique introduction with a hook sentence. ✔️ Check your facts and add quotes as evidence. ✔️ Use only academic sources. ✔️ Use a neutral tone. ✔️ Opinions from more than one school of thought.

Working on your profile, always refer to your course specifics and discipline as it may introduce additional rules regarding your structure and information that must be included. 

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What is a profile essay?

A typical profile essay example is a creative description of a personality, an event, or an object that relates to a particular person. In some cases, you can choose topics or ideas that describe a celebrity or a scientist. It must deal with the facts and provide descriptions. The other profile essay topics may talk about a career, a defining moment with a teacher, or a profile on social media.

How to write profile essays?

As you will see with most examples of profile essays, they represent a collection of facts with a brief analysis. It is a narration that focuses on a person. However, it must not get boring and become a listing of already known facts. Provide analytical information, interesting data, and argumentation that tells why a certain profile matters to you or had an impact on society.

How do I choose a subject for my profile essay?

Selecting a subject for your profile essay involves identifying a topic that you find intriguing and believe will captivate your audience. It could be someone with an interesting story or occupation, a place with historical significance, or an event that has impacted a community. Consider accessibility to the subject for interviews and research, and ensure there is enough substance to explore deeply.

What are some key elements to include in a profile essay?

Key elements of a profile essay include a captivating introduction that hooks the reader, detailed background information about the subject, a vivid description that employs sensory details, direct quotations from interviews, and a reflective conclusion that ties the insights and observations together. Incorporating personal observations and thoughts can also add depth to your essay.

How do I conduct research for a profile essay?

Research for a profile essay involves both primary and secondary sources. Start with secondary research to gather background information about your subject. Then, conduct primary research through interviews and firsthand observations to capture the nuances of your subject's personality, environment, or activities. Ensure your questions are open-ended to elicit detailed responses.

The most popular topics for Profile Essay

• Adolf Hitler
• American Born Chinese
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• Donald Trump
• Mahatma Gandhi
• Christopher Columbus
• Atticus Finch
• Andy Warhol
• Abigail Williams
• Martin Luther King

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What Is Profile Essay? Complete Guide For Students

Sourav Mahahjan

What is a profile essay?  

A profile essay is also considered descriptive literature about a specific place, event or individual. Essay: For example, describe a city. Readers: a profile essay helps the readers create an image regarding a situation and helps make a comprehensive judgement. To provide a complete image regarding the topic or situation, it also becomes necessary to gather all the relevant information and provide it in a well-defined structure, which can help the readers to get a large amount of information without any confusion. Moreover, it is also advisable to use spatial order when writing a profile essay as it helps make it more attractive for the readers.

What is the purpose of a profile essay?

The primary purpose of an essay is to describe, in detail, a place, event, person or occurrence. As a result, a profile essay helps in performing the following function.

• Helps in providing detailed knowledge on a given subject 
• To provide the audience with a detailed understanding of some person, place, event, discussion or thing. 
• Helps in demonstrating the writer's skills in writing quality profile essays.

Preparing an outline or structure of a profile essay is very important. This helps the writer collect and arrange all the relevant information regarding the topic and situation in chronological order, which helps provide better information for the essay's readers. 

What is the structure of the excellent profile essay?

The structure of a profile essay consists of the following.

• Introduction or opening a paragraph:  The paragraph or section should provide information regarding the essay's subject. The introduction should begin with a leading sentence which helps describe the event or person in the profile essay. 
• Main body: The body paragraphs are considered very helpful as they help decide the length of the profile essay. A short and precise profile generally consists of 3 paragraphs. The main body should also include examples. Also, citing the external sources used in the profile essay is vital. Moreover, the main body should also be plagiarism-free in the case of academic profile essays. 
• Conclusion: This is the essay's final paragraph and contains the essay's climax. The conclusion should include the essay's thesis statement and summarising the important points discussed in the profile essay.

Steps for starting a profile essay:

The profile essay should be precise, presentable and attractive and provide a long-term impression in the readers' minds. The police essays should begin with an introductory sentence that can help readers the readers' attention. The introduction paragraph should also provide information regarding the essay's thesis statement. Also, the profile essay should also include quotes and adages in the the introduction chapter, which can help the essay's readers. Also, humour is vital as it helps engage the readers and intrigues them further regarding the information provided in the essay. 

Conclusion of a profile essay:

The conclusion plays an integral part in making the essay authentic and making the readers believe the information provided regarding the situations and the events. As a result, writing a good-quality conclusion is essential for completing a profile essay. The conclusion should include only a few new statements or information but restate the essay's thesis statement. Moreover, the concussion should only include relevant information regarding the essay. The conclusion helps summarise every paragraph of the profile essay in a systematic essay. The conclusion of the profile essay should create the reader's mind regarding the event, place, situation or person discussed in the essay.

Moreover, it is also important to note that each paragraph in the profile essay should have an opening sentence, different facts and examples that relay the essay's thesis statements and a conclusion section. Sticking to coherence is considered essential for the writer as it helps manage the flow of the essay and provides a better understanding to the readers. The use of transitional words also helps connect the different parts of the essay with the thesis statement of the essay. 

Tips for writing a profile essay:

The profile essays generally use 'high-quality short lines, which helps attract the attention of the readers. The following tips can be beneficial in writing a high-quality profile essay.

• When writing a profile essay, it is essential to focus on the features of the event, person, situation or subject discussed in the essay. This should form the base of the profile essay written by the writer.
• The profile essay should attract the attention of the readers. 
• Starting from the introduction, each paragraph should provide a hint about the following information in the next paragraph. 
• Selecting an adequate profile essay topic is essential as it helps maintain the essay's quality. Selecting a  too narrow or broad topic may make the profile essay plain and unattractive for the readers. 
• Moreover, it is also essential to use simple words in the profile essay as it will help the readers better understand the information provided in the profile essay.  
• Furthermore, the p essay's title should be descriptive and carry information regarding the subject incorporated in the profile essay. Also, the profile title should discuss the central topic discussed in the profile essay. 

Things to remember while writing a profile essay:

The following points should be kept in mind when writing a profile essay:

• Always respect the subject:  As a writer, it is essential to respect the subject discussed in the profile essay. The respect shown to the subject depends on the type of words used by the writer when discussing the main subject in the profile essay. Controlling the motions while writing a profile essay is essential. 
• Avoiding making grammatical errors:  To maintain the quality of the information provided in the profile essay, the writer needs to reduce the grammatical errors made in the profile essay. 
• Avoid complex words:  One of the essential elements of writing an attractive profile essay is to avoid using complex words in the profile essay and include simple words. This is very helpful for a long-term impact on the minds. This also helps better understand the information provided by the writer in the essay regarding a specific topic or situation.

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