what have people written about for the 'introduce a topic you know about' on the HSF app? I have a rather niche one I plan to discuss but I think it might be too academic. What are they actually looking for? I mean obvs non-boring, somewhat curious and well-read people who can enthuse and inform ppl about things. wondering what some successful candidates might have put in the past.
Hey
@affidavid , I know the deadline has passed for HSF, but I still think it’s useful to provide insights on this very good question, as it’s typically seen among other firm‘s applications as well.
In my experience, there is no single “right” approach to this question, and it is possible to write about virtually anything you know well. What matters most is your ability to present the topic in a way that reflects your genuine enthusiasm and allows someone unfamiliar with it to walk away having learned something new or feeling inspired. The question is not just about what you know, but about how you engage with the subject and why it matters to you.
If your topic is academic, the way you structure your response becomes especially important. It can be tempting to approach the question as though you are writing an academic essay or engaging in a formal debate. However, I would recommend focusing less on technical details and more on the broader ideas and connections that make the topic meaningful to you. Rather than delving too deeply into specialised content, try to highlight the personal fascination it holds for you and how it ties into larger themes that others might relate to or find intriguing.
For example, if I were answering this question, I might choose to write about the history of the diamond trade and how its regulation has shaped international commerce. While it is an academic topic, I would begin by explaining how my initial interest was sparked, perhaps through a documentary or a legal case study, and then transition into discussing broader themes like globalisation, ethics in trade, and the role of regulation in fostering transparency. I would aim to present the information in a way that captures both the complexities of the topic and the passion I feel for it, ensuring that even someone with no background in the subject could follow my reasoning and feel engaged.
The key is to use the topic as a way to showcase not just your knowledge, but also your ability to convey ideas clearly and to connect with an audience. HSF is likely looking for candidates who are not only well-informed, but also capable of using their insights to enthuse and inform others.