Hey everyone! As a junior starting to think about my Common App essay, I'm a little stressed about where to begin. I know it's important, but there are so many prompts, and I'm not sure which one would best showcase who I am. Does anyone have tips on how to choose a prompt that will make me stand out, or how to brainstorm ideas that feel genuine? Any advice would be awesome!
Indeed, the Common App essay can feel overwhelming at first due to the multiple prompts and the pressure to make it reflective of who you are. Here are some pointers on how to navigate it:
1. Understand the Prompts: Take your time to understand what each prompt is asking and think about how answering each one would help you tell your story. The prompts are designed to give you the most latitude in sharing your experiences, values, and personality. Remember, there's no right or wrong choice here – it's about which one resonates with you the most.
2. Brainstorm Experiences: Consider significant moments in your life—obstacles you've overcome, achievements you're proud of, or experiences that shaped you. Your goal here is to utilize a unique aspect of your life to highlight your personal growth, values, or aspirations.
3. Show Your Authentic Self: Admissions officers are interested in understanding who you are as a person – your values, passions, and personality – rather than a simple recitation of your resume. Your essay should be genuine, embracing your unique voice and style.
4. Determine the Spine of Your Story: Your essay should have a clear, engaging narrative. Identify a ‘spike’ or primary focus of your essay. It should be something you're deeply involved in and passionate about. This forms the backbone of your story and helps admissions officers see where you shine.
5. Avoid Clichés: Try to step away from overused narratives. For instance, while it's okay to write about sports, focus on an aspect of your involvement that isn't about winning or losing.
6. Draft and Revise: Start by drafting your ideas without worrying too much about word limit or flawless prose. After your thoughts are down on paper, then you can revisit and refine. Make sure to have people you trust read your essays for feedback.
Remember, your essay should reflect you. It's not just about what you've done, but about who you are.
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