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What are some tips for college essay writing? Specifically PIQ's!
I am a senior working on college applications.
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Lucas’s Answer
Hi Kaitlyn, this is a great question. Colleges want to learn what makes you unique, so when you’re responding to an essay prompt, think about experiences, interests, or perspectives that set you apart from others. Maybe you have an unusual hobby, have worked on a meaningful project, or have had a memorable travel experience. Those personal details can help your essay stand out.
It’s also important to be intentional with your wording. Use language that reflects your emotions and passion, because that is often what stays with the reader most.
I remember hearing a story from an admissions counselor who said one of the most memorable essays she ever read was about someone’s excitement over getting a Bojangles chicken biscuit. What made it stand out was how vividly the writer described their feelings and why that experience meant so much to them. It was a great reminder that even a simple topic can become a strong essay if it is written with personality and genuine emotion.
It’s also important to be intentional with your wording. Use language that reflects your emotions and passion, because that is often what stays with the reader most.
I remember hearing a story from an admissions counselor who said one of the most memorable essays she ever read was about someone’s excitement over getting a Bojangles chicken biscuit. What made it stand out was how vividly the writer described their feelings and why that experience meant so much to them. It was a great reminder that even a simple topic can become a strong essay if it is written with personality and genuine emotion.
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Beverly’s Answer
Hello Kaitlyn,
I am so excited to hear you are working on your college essay and the PIQ's are an opportunity for you to give details to important questions about who you are and how you think, make decisions, etc. The best way to answer these questions in with honesty, a short story to show an example of the concept, and a positive learning insight.
For example, if you are asked a question about leadership, list and explain a role you had in a school or community position you held. This could include coaching a children's team and settling disputes among the members. The question is asking how you handle conflict.
Another example is a question asking how you overcame an obstacle and what you learned. This type of question is an opportunity to show growth and resilience. If you started a job, paid or volunteer, and you did not know how to use the client software, how did you learn? Did you review the product on your own and did you ask for help? This question shows your ability to venture out and show your interest as well as vulnerability. By taking a risk and showing a willingness to learn, you are showing character growth.
I hope these examples help you to get started and let me know if I may assist you further.
Best wishes on the college essay!
Beverly
I am so excited to hear you are working on your college essay and the PIQ's are an opportunity for you to give details to important questions about who you are and how you think, make decisions, etc. The best way to answer these questions in with honesty, a short story to show an example of the concept, and a positive learning insight.
For example, if you are asked a question about leadership, list and explain a role you had in a school or community position you held. This could include coaching a children's team and settling disputes among the members. The question is asking how you handle conflict.
Another example is a question asking how you overcame an obstacle and what you learned. This type of question is an opportunity to show growth and resilience. If you started a job, paid or volunteer, and you did not know how to use the client software, how did you learn? Did you review the product on your own and did you ask for help? This question shows your ability to venture out and show your interest as well as vulnerability. By taking a risk and showing a willingness to learn, you are showing character growth.
I hope these examples help you to get started and let me know if I may assist you further.
Best wishes on the college essay!
Beverly
Thank you so much!
Kaitlyn
You are so welcome, Kaitlyn! I wish you success.
Beverly Schott