Tips on Writing an Effective College Application Essay
October 7, 2009
So, you’re sitting down before a blank computer screen, trying to figure out what to write for your college application essay. You’ve already written what seems to be hundreds of essays for your high school teachers, but this one is different. You’re not summarizing a book, or commenting on a news event – you’re trying to write the most persuasive essay about yourself possible; one that will make you stand out, get noticed and hopefully accepted by the college of your choice!
In an effort to try to help you write an effective college application essay, we’ve compiled the following tips:
- Tell your story. Use this “requirement” as an opportunity to share who you are with the admissions officers. Instead of filling out their forms, you are now writing an essay on your terms about the information that you feel is important for the admissions officers to know. Tell them who you are and why you would be an asset to the college community, but do not simply regurgitate everything on your application or transcript. Be personal. Evoke emotion: happiness, sadness, frustration, anger, triumph, humor. Let your true voice come out. This is your time to shine!
- Dare to be different. When picking your topic, think outside of the box. If the question has an obvious response, position your essay with a different slant or point of view. Use vivid examples. But, be careful not to come across as “trying too hard” as this can come across as being insincere.
- Keep it simple. Admissions officers do not have time to read a multiple page essay, no matter how interesting the topic or how well written. Focus on a single topic or event, pour your heart into that essay, and be done. Do not expound for paragraphs about the football team’s record over the past four years when a simple sentence or two can get your point across. A page should do it!
- Remember the basics. A good essay comprises an overall thesis that is explicitly stated. Every paragraph should contain a topic sentence and explain one coherent thought. Spell check and proofread your essay. Improper punctuation, can, ruin: a sentence. Make sure the formatting is proper. This is your first impression – make it count!
- Show it to (a select few) trusted advisors. When you have completed your essay, you should let a few people read it, just to get some feedback. If you have a good relationship with an English teacher, ask him or her to review your essay. You may also want to ask your guidance counselor, independent college counselor or parents for their reactions. Because you have been working on your essay so diligently, you want to get outside comments to ensure you have conveyed your topic successfully. One word of caution: do not ask too many people, as differing comments, while well-intentioned, can become an unnecessary source of stress.
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