Hi guys, stressfully pondering over here: How crucial is the Common App essay in the grand scheme of my application? I'm worried about how much time I should be investing in it.
The Common App essay is a pivotal component of your application -- think of it as a unique space to share your personality, values, and the 'whys' behind your achievements. Unlike the rest of your application which lists and quantifies your accomplishments, the essay breathes life into your profile, helping you stand out as more than just numbers and titles.
However, while it's significant, balance is key. You don't want to overlook other important parts of your application like putting together a clear, informative activities list, or reaching out early to your recommenders to give them time to write strong letters. You'll need to invest significant time into crafting and refining your narrative, but don't lose track of your other tasks during application season.
Finally, a winning essay often undergoes several drafts, so start early to allow for thoughtful reflection and revision. If you want feedback at any point, you can check out CollegeVine's free peer essay review service, or submit your essay for a paid review by an expert advisor. Finally, if you're having trouble getting started, you can check out CollegeVine's examples of strong Common App essays, all written by real students: https://blog.collegevine.com/common-app-essay-examples.
Happy writing!
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