Tips for writing your
College Application Essay
Here's advice from the people who read them!
Does writing a college application essay seem like a daunting task to
you? For most people, the answer is a resounding “yes!” However, the essay
is also an opportunity for you to show your talents and creativity to their best
advantage.
To help you get started, here are some insights on writing an essay from
the people who read hundreds of them every year — admission officers at
colleges.
The essay is your chance to use your voice
The essay is the living, breathing part of your application to a college. In
the essay, you can speak in your own voice and personalize your application.
Here's your opportunity to show something about you that doesn't really
come across elsewhere in your application.
So, step back and be reflective. Think about who you are as an individual.
How do you view the world? What do you care about deeply? What experiences
and people have been important in shaping you as a person? What are your
aspirations in life?
It is in such reflection that you can find your own, unique voice. That's
the voice that will help you write an interesting essay that only you could
have written.
Now, on to some nuts and bolts of writing the essay.
Show your command of the basics of good writing
Here are some key points that admission officers look for in an essay:
• Make sure to answer the essay question and to follow all the instructions
that are given.
• Start off with a strong opening paragraph that captures the reader's interest.
• Use a style that you find comfortable and that is appropriate for the subject matter.
• Use correct grammar, punctuation and spelling.
• Make a point and stick to it; develop your argument or narrative.
• Check all of your facts. Do you mention a date, place or event in your essay? Make sure it's correct.
• Have you given your reader complete information, so he or she won't be
confused?
• In general, it's best to be succinct. If there a recommended length for the
essay, pay attention to it.
• The essay should be neatly typed.
• Remember that mistakes, especially sloppy mistakes, make it look like you
don't take the essay (and, by extension, the application) very seriously.
Place an order for your essay to receive it within your deadline
Suggested Reading:
- Online college essay writing
- Online college writing skills
- Getting started on college admission essays
- Steps of college essays writing |
