I was wondering if it's super important to put my real name on my college essays or not? I know they have my application but I'm not sure what the norm is on this.
Usually, there's no need to put your name on the college essay. Your essay becomes part of your overall application profile, which already includes your basic information, such as your name, high school, etc. When admissions officers read your essay, they're viewing it as part of your whole application packet, so your personal information is clearly associated with it.
That being said, if the college specifically asks you to include your name on your essay, then, of course, you should follow that instruction. Just make sure to follow the specific submission guidelines each college provides for its application process.
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