Writing Your College Essay

Most students dread writing their college essays, but that doesn't have to be the case. Think of the essay NOT as a dull list of activities, but as a chance to share your thoughts, insights, and opinions. It is a time for meaningful expression and an opportunity to highlight your facility for language. Highlight accomplishments and convey your maturity and personal outlook on life. Above all, try to provide a glimpse into your personality or character.

Purpose of the Essay

• The essay enables the College Admissions committee to evaluate your communication skills, as well as learn more about you as a person – beyond what grades and SAT scores can convey.
• A well-written essay can speak volumes about your attitudes, feelings, and personal qualities.

Choosing a Topic

• Read the essay question carefully and think about what the question is really asking.
• If you can't decide among topics, try writing about several different topics, then determine which one best speaks about you.
• Narrow your topic: be as specific and illustrative as possible.
• Since the purpose of the essay is self-revelation, use incidents and facts about yourself to reveal your character.
• Don't be afraid to write something that is a little different – provided it is honest. A unique topic is a refreshing treat for readers.

Preparing to Write

• Organize your thoughts and develop a framework for your essay so it will progress logically.
• Consider purpose, content and tone. Be true to your own style; falseness always shows.

Writing the Essay

• Write a first draft, concentrating on content. Set it aside for a week. Read it again with a fresh perspective. REVISE.
• After revising several times, consider matters of organization, style, grammar, spelling, and tone.
• Try it out on someone else. While the final product and "voice" should be yours, another person might be able to offer helpful suggestions.

A Typical Essay Question
It is our aim to get to know you as well as possible through this application. With this in mind, please describe in detail some specific interest, experience, achievement, or anything else you would like us to know about you.

DO

• Think "small" and write about something that you know.
• Reveal yourself in your writing.
• Show rather than tell.
• Use anecdotes and examples.
• Write in your own "voice" and style.
• Come alive in your essay.

DON'T

• Write on general topics such as world peace.
• Exaggerate or write to impress.
• Disregard the recommended word count.
• Include a laundry list of activities or a travel brochure.
• Use a flowery, inflated, or pretentious style.
• Neglect grammar, spelling, or sentence structure.
• Above all, don't ramble. Say what you have to say and conclude on a positive note.