Hey everyone, I'm starting to work on my college essays and can use some advice. What are some important dos and don'ts that you guys are aware of when it comes to writing a successful college essay?
7 months agoHi there! Writing a successful college essay is an important part of the application process. Here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
Dos:
1. Be genuine and authentic. Admissions officers want to get to know the real you. Share your unique experiences, perspectives, and voice in your essay. Avoid trying to impress by using big words or cliché stories.
2. Tell a compelling story. Engage your reader by focusing on a meaningful experience, and tell it in a way that keeps their attention. Use descriptive language and anecdotes to make your point and reveal something about yourself.
3. Be concise and focused. Stick to the word limit and focus on one main idea or theme throughout your essay. This will help you keep your writing clear, organized, and engaging.
4. Revise and proofread. Make sure your essay is polished and error-free by proofreading it multiple times and getting feedback from trusted friends, family members, or teachers.
5. Answer the prompt. Make sure you're addressing the specific question or topic that's being asked in the prompt. This shows that you've paid attention to the requirements and put thought into your response.
Don'ts:
1. Don't use cliché topics. Steer clear of overused topics like sports victories, mission trips, or the all-too-familiar "hardworking student" narrative. Instead, try to find a unique angle or experience that truly represents you.
2. Don't exaggerate or brag. It's important to be honest and humble in your essay. Avoid exaggerating your accomplishments or inflating your persona. Admissions officers can usually spot exaggeration, and it may hurt your credibility.
3. Don't rely on gimmicks or humor. While humor can sometimes work in an essay, it's risky, as it might not resonate with the reader. Focus on substance rather than flashy tricks to catch their attention.
4. Don't simply list accomplishments. The essay is not a resume; it's a chance to showcase your personality and share a story. Use this opportunity to give context to your achievements or delve deeper into a specific aspect of your life.
5. Don't write in the last minute. Give yourself sufficient time to brainstorm, draft, revise, and get feedback on your essay. Rushing through the process can result in a less effective and less polished essay.
Best of luck with your college essays! Remember to stay true to yourself, and you'll be on the right track towards crafting a memorable and impactful essay.
7 months agoCollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.