Tips For Writing a Biography

TIPS FOR WRITING A BIOGRAPHY

Ready To Start Writing Your Reunion Biography?

Below is a step by step description of how to write  and submit your biography. While you compose your bio keep in mind that there is no right or wrong way to write it. Feel free to write about anything you’d like. The overall goal is to keep each bio to between 500 and 1200 words. Add as many pictures, videos or gifs that you think are appropriate. Please send us full size pictures and we’ll edit them for size on the website.

  1. Write your reunion biography. It can be in email or word processing format (500 to 1200 words)
  2. Attach any media or links you would like to add. Medium to large size files are preferred. Please make sure your anti-virus software is up-to-date.
  3. Feel free to use your own "Featured Image", the first image people see on your post. We ask that it is a minimum size of 550 pixels wide and 400 pixels tall (or any ratio larger than that). If that doesn't make any since to you just send us a picture and we'll do our best to make it fit. If you don't want to customize your default image your default image will be your picture from the 1970 Archive and copy from the listing in the index. (Just like Jef's)
  4. Email your content to: info@bghsclassof1970.com

You will receive a confirmation that we have received your biography and will call you if there are any questions. A draft copy of your page will be sent to you for your approval before it becomes live on our website.

NOTE:  We understand that biographies can contain semi-confidential information. All of the biography pages will be blocked from search engines indexing them. This means that while anyone who comes to the site will be able to read your bio, it won't show up when someone does a simple name search in Google. If you have any concerns that you might be using sensitive personal information DO NOT INCLUDE IT IN YOUR BIO!

 

Here are some ideas for writing your reunion biography, HAVE FUN!!!

Tips For How to Write a Biography for a Class Reunion

Long before you tear apart your closet looking for the right outfit to wear to your class reunion, you must put some thoughts together for your reunion biography. These bios, which typically appear in a publication distributed at the reunion and online, give you the chance to share some memories about school and let former classmates know what you've been doing in recent years.

Provide the Basics

Modern-day technology means your school's alumni group can gather the information for your biography online. Many organizations provide templates that are less daunting than sitting down in front of a blank word-processing document and trying to summarize your life. Start with the basics such as your name, year of graduation and contact information. Some schools allow you to submit social-media contact information. If you don't want your contact information published in the reunion publication, check the appropriate box or leave a note.

Think Way Back

Many biography forms ask you to share a few memories about your days as a student. Write a few short anecdotes about a favorite teacher, class or extracurricular activity. For example, note that a particular teacher's words still echo in your head a couple of decades later, or your gym teacher's commitment to fitness helped you learn the importance of keeping active. Funny memories, provided they're tasteful, can add levity to your bio. For example, recall a food fight in the cafeteria or tell a humorous story about prom.

Provide Post-Graduation Updates

Part of the goal of any class reunion is to get updates about those you haven't seen in several years. Your biography should include some details about your life since graduation. For example, note where you went to college and the program you studied, a few highlights of the jobs you've had and any personal details such as marital status and number of offspring. Telling your story in chronological order is a standard approach.

Tips for Success

Don't feel as though you have to be an accomplished writer to put together some basic thoughts. If you're better at telling stories in person, keep the bio brief and share anecdotes with former classmates at the event. If you have trouble thinking of significant details or don't have an extensive education, work or family history, focus on hobbies, significant trips you've taken, volunteering experience or noteworthy milestones.

Here is a list of sample questions that might help organize your thoughts.

If you want to see the entire list, please go to:

Class Reunion Memory Book Questionnaire

Good Luck!

Personal Update

  • What have you been up to since graduation?
  • What are your hobbies? What do you end up doing in your spare time?
  • Have you ever been honored for anything?
  • Any personal experiences you would like to share?
  • Name the places you have lived
  • Where do you currently live?
  • What are your favorite books?
  • What are your favorite movies?
  • What is your favorite quote?
  • Who is your favorite musical group?
  • What sports do you watch/follow?
  • What is your favorite team?
  • Military? Years of Service?

Career Update

  • What degrees have you obtained? Any other education after graduation?
  • What was your first paying job after graduation?
  • Current employer and title

Family Update

  • Are You Married?
  • Spouse/Significant other’s name and occupation?
  • Do You Have Children? Names/ages?

Relationships

  • What is your spouse’s/significant other’s name?
  • How long have you been together?
  • What do they do?
  • How did you meet them?
  • Have you divorced? Remarried?

School Memories You Would Like To Share

  • What was the dumbest thing you did in high school, and did you have fun doing it?
  • Favorite song in High School?
  • What is your most vivid memory from your years at school?
  • Which professors/teachers influenced your life and made a lasting impression? Why?
  • Which classmate influenced you the most?
  • Who was your favorite teacher?
  • What was your favorite class?
  • Did you have a secret crush on anyone?
  • What car did you drive?

Travel Questions

  • What was your favorite vacation? Have you traveled overseas?
  • What vacations do you have planned for next year?
  • Where would you like to travel in the future?