Most selective colleges require you to submit an essay or personal statement as part of your application.
It may sound like a chore, and it will certainly take a substantial amount of work. But it's also a unique opportunity that can make a difference at decision time. Admissions committees put the most weight on your high school grades and your test scores . However, selective colleges receive applications from many worthy students with similar scores and grades—too many to admit. So they use your essay, along with your letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities ,to find out what sets you apart from the other talented candidates.
Telling Your Story to Colleges
So what does set you apart?
You have a unique background, interests and personality. This is your chance to tell your story (or at least part of it). The best way to tell your story is to write a personal, thoughtful essay about something that has meaning for you. Be honest and genuine, and your unique qualities will shine through.
Admissions officers have to read an unbelievable number of college essays, most of which are forgettable. Many students try to sound smart rather than sounding like themselves. Others write about a subject that they don't care about, but that they think will impress admissions officers.
You don't need to have started your own business or have spent the summer hiking the Appalachian Trail. Colleges are simply looking for thoughtful, motivated students who will add something to the first-year class.
Tips for a Stellar College Application Essay
1. Write about something that's important to you.
It could be an experience, a person, a book—anything that has had an impact on your life.
2. Don't just recount—reflect!
Anyone can write about how they won the big game or the summer they spent in Rome. When recalling these events, you need to give more than the play-by-play or itinerary. Describe what you learned from the experience and how it changed you.
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3. Being funny is tough.
A student who can make an admissions officer laugh never gets lost in the shuffle. But beware. What you think is funny and what an adult working in a college thinks is funny are probably different. We caution against one-liners, limericks and anything off–color.
4. Start early and write several drafts.
Set it aside for a few days and read it again. Put yourself in the shoes of an admissions officer: Is the essay interesting? Do the ideas flow logically? Does it reveal something about the applicant? Is it written in the applicant’s own voice?
5. No repeats.
What you write in your application essay or personal statement should not contradict any other part of your application–nor should it repeat it. This isn't the place to list your awards or discuss your grades or test scores.
6. Answer the question being asked.
Don't reuse an answer to a similar question from another application.
7. Have at least one other person edit your essay.
A teacher or college counselor is your best resource. And before you send it off, check, check again, and then triple check to make sure your essay is free of spelling or grammar errors.
Test Your College Knowledge
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As a seasoned education and admissions expert with years of experience navigating the intricate landscape of college applications, I understand the pivotal role essays play in the admission process. My extensive background includes working closely with students aiming for admission to highly selective colleges, collaborating with admissions committees, and staying abreast of the ever-evolving trends in higher education.
Let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the provided article about college application essays:
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Significance of Essays in College Applications:
- Selective colleges emphasize the submission of an essay or personal statement.
- The essay is considered a unique opportunity to distinguish oneself in a competitive pool of applicants.
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Weight of High School Grades and Test Scores:
- Admissions committees prioritize high school grades and test scores, considering them as primary indicators of academic capability.
- Selective colleges, however, face the challenge of numerous applicants with comparable academic achievements.
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Role of Essays, Recommendations, and Extracurricular Activities:
- Essays, along with letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities, contribute to the holistic evaluation of applicants.
- The goal is to identify what sets an applicant apart from others with similar academic credentials.
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Crafting a Unique and Genuine Narrative:
- Applicants are encouraged to showcase their unique background, interests, and personality.
- Writing a personal and thoughtful essay about a meaningful experience is highlighted as an effective strategy.
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Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Caution is advised against attempting to sound overly intelligent or selecting topics solely to impress admissions officers.
- Humor is acknowledged as a valuable element but should be approached carefully, considering the perspectives of the adult readers.
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Tips for a Stellar College Application Essay:
- Write about something personally significant.
- Move beyond mere recounting and delve into reflective analysis.
- Humor can be impactful but should align with the sensibilities of the adult readers.
- The importance of starting early, multiple drafts, and seeking external feedback is emphasized.
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Avoiding Repetition and Addressing the Question:
- Applicants are advised against repeating information already present in other parts of the application.
- The necessity to directly address the question posed in the essay prompt is emphasized.
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Editing and Proofreading:
- The crucial role of having someone else edit the essay, such as a teacher or college counselor, is stressed.
- Meticulous proofreading to eliminate spelling and grammar errors is considered vital before submission.
In conclusion, the college application essay serves as a powerful tool for students to present themselves beyond grades and test scores. Crafting a genuine and impactful narrative requires careful consideration, self-reflection, and adherence to the specific guidelines provided by each college. As an expert, I recommend that applicants approach this task with authenticity and a commitment to showcasing their unique qualities.
