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What would help make my essay for college applications stand out?
#college #collegeapplication #collegeapplications #applyingtocollege #essay
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Doc’s Answer
Grades and test scores are important components, but numbers only tell part of the story. Colleges are interested in seeing a full picture of each applicant, and the essay is a real opportunity for YOU to let your personality shine. When comparing students with similar scores and extracurricular involvement, a compelling college essay has to grab the attention of an admission’s reader. It is imperative the introduction to your essay captures the reader’s attention and makes them want to read more. Don't be another of thousands of applicants that do not make an impression. You want the admissions reader to say, this is a real person writing to me. That means you should write with your voice, that is, you need to write with your own personality. Honesty, humor, talking the way you talk, showing the way you think, all will help you to create your voice.
One last thing to keep in mind. While unique is good, be wary of over-the-top writing styles. You want to engage, not alienate, your reader. Guiding your essay throughout the process should be a commitment to conveying what makes you a uniquely suitable candidate — emphasis on SUITABLE. Essays that deliver shock value for shock value’s sake may not get you anywhere.
Hope this helpful Clementine
CHOOSE A THOUGHTFUL TITLE – College essays are not typically required to have a title, but opting for one can be a powerful tool to make your essay stand out right away
JUMP RIGHT IN – You know how people often judge whether to read a book by its first sentence. Well... your college essay will be no different. I recommend that you throw your reader right into the middle of the story, start with the meaty part right off the bat.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES – It can be tempting to take this opportunity to list out all your positive attributes, but remember, this is NOT a resume — it’s your essay. To make your college essay stand out, use compelling examples to illustrate your points.
BE CLEAR – It is a good idea to make sure different audiences understand what you have tried to write. Test your essay with a friend, a teacher, a parent, even a younger reader. Ask them: Does it make sense? Are there transitions between different sections of the essay? Is the essay organized? Have you started at the beginning? Have you provided an ending? Have you given enough background information?
One last thing to keep in mind. While unique is good, be wary of over-the-top writing styles. You want to engage, not alienate, your reader. Guiding your essay throughout the process should be a commitment to conveying what makes you a uniquely suitable candidate — emphasis on SUITABLE. Essays that deliver shock value for shock value’s sake may not get you anywhere.
Hope this helpful Clementine
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Carlyn’s Answer
Hi,
One of the most important elements of creating a strong college application is making a holistic story about yourself. Before you pick your essay topic spend a bit of time thinking through what you want to convey to the reader, who are you and why do you want to attend their school. It is clear when people are passionate. If there is something you care deeply about or a story that you feel is central to who you are I would recommend sharing that. If there is any way to tie this back to your academic or extra curricular interests I would highly recommend doing that! Make sure that you have a compelling beginning and end to your essay to tie the reader in and leaving them with a clear takeaway.
One of the most important elements of creating a strong college application is making a holistic story about yourself. Before you pick your essay topic spend a bit of time thinking through what you want to convey to the reader, who are you and why do you want to attend their school. It is clear when people are passionate. If there is something you care deeply about or a story that you feel is central to who you are I would recommend sharing that. If there is any way to tie this back to your academic or extra curricular interests I would highly recommend doing that! Make sure that you have a compelling beginning and end to your essay to tie the reader in and leaving them with a clear takeaway.
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hi Clementine! My name is Emily and I am currently a senior at Rutgers University. One way to make your college essay stand out, in my opinion, is to write about something you've learned through your setbacks. College essays, in my opinion, stand out when the writer demonstrates how strong and influential the experience was on them, as well as how their viewpoint altered as a result of it.
Updated
Bhavin’s Answer
Hey Clementine when I was writing my essay the best advice I got was to write about something personal. It leads to a much deeper, richer, and easier to write story. I say this is the best advice I got because when I chose my topic it became much easier to answer the prompts. I was able to reflect and really think about how that event changed my life. Getting personal with your essay may seem scary at first, but it shows uniqueness and that can help you to stand out as well. Don't be afraid to get personal! And good luck!
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