Leave enough time to brainstorm, think, write, and revise. Writing under deadline pressure adds unnecessary stress.
Tell your story, in your voice. Yes, it’s a cliché, but that’s because it’s true. Admissions officials look to the essay to find out more about the person behind the transcript and the application. This is where you showcase who you are, not where you list your accomplishments.
Pick a subject that enhances your key qualities and does not duplicate information available in your application. For example, if you intend to play sports in college, don’t write about key moments in a game. If you are a drama student, don’t describe what it’s like to star in a play.
Stay away from overused or uninspiring topics. They include:
The “mind-opening” benefits of travel, including mission or adventure trips.
The value of “team work” you learned through sports, or building homes for Habitat for Humanity.
A rundown of all the things you’ve done from your brilliant academic record, to your dedication to community service. A grocery list of accomplishments doth not a great essay make.
Ask your family and friends what they see as your best qualities, or a funny story about you. That might inspire you to zero in on a great essay topic.
You are unique. Your essay should be the same. Write something that reveals you, not what you think an adult wants to hear.
Focus in on one topic. If you try to write about several ideas or attributes, you will water down the impact of your essay. One powerful, in-depth exploration of a subject will reveal more about you.
Consider a small, ordinary, slice of life topic. Often it’s the little things that make the best essays. I read a great essay on a student’s favorite pair of sneakers!
Tell a story and write how you talk. Use anecdotes and examples to make your point. Describe what makes you a leader, rather than writing: “I have great leadership skills.”
Write in the first person. The essay is a story about you, it’s not a term paper.
Simple is better than complicated. Trying to impress a college admissions officer with big words tends to backfire.
Start with a strong first sentence. It helps catch the reader's attention immediately and sets up the rest of the essay.
Use strong verbs instead of a string of adjectives and adverbs. For example: “The dancer strutted and shimmied across the floor,” instead of “the dancer gracefully made his way across the floor.”
Be mindful of using the same word twice in one sentence. For example: “We worked hard to make the project work.”
Just write – for most people getting started is the biggest hurdle. Don’t worry about turning in a perfect piece. Writing and rewriting is part of the process. Get the words out and you will be well on your way.
If you are vacillating between topics, write two essays and see which one works better.
Show your essay to trusted friends and competent teachers or guidance counselors. See if your writing holds their interest. Certainly show your essay to your parents, however they are not generally your best critics. They love you so much, they often strive to embellish your writing with what they believe admissions counselors want to hear.
Proofread, proofread, proofread (or have someone else check your work). Nothing destroys a wonderful essay faster than a misspelled word or incorrect grammar. Also it sends a powerful message: if you can’t get the little things right, chances are you won’t fare well in a demanding college environment.
Remember the supplements! These extra questions are vitally important. Lavish the same care and attention on these additional sections as you do on your main essay.
Have fun – yes it’s possible. Take a deep breathe. As Dr. Seuss said: “Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive that is you-er than you!” So write your heart out and let those college admission folks get a good look at YOU.
