So it's my junior year, and I'm getting ready to apply to colleges. I'm stuck on the Common App essay though. Could someone tell me what's it about and perhaps share some tips on how to approach it? Any insight will be appreciated!
Understandably, the college essay can be a daunting task, especially if you are unsure of what to focus on. The good news is for the Common App essay, you can essentially write about any topic you want based on the prompts provided. The overall aim is to provide a personal narrative that allows the admission officers to understand you better.
To give you some context, there are seven prompts in total, and you will choose one of them to answer. The prompts change a little from year to year, but they usually provide ample room for students to talk about their experiences and personal growth. They might ask about moments of personal struggle, defining experiences, places/people that have influenced you, or aspects of your identity that are important to you.
As you approach writing this essay, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
1. Authenticity: It's critical to choose a topic that genuinely means something to you. This is not about impressing the admissions committee with an extraordinary action or accomplishment. Instead, it's about showing them who you are and what has shaped you as a person.
2. Show, Don't Tell: Try to make your story vivid and engaging by using descriptive language. Instead of simply stating that you are passionate about something, illustrate that passion by recounting a specific incident or experience.
3. Reflection: One of the most important aspects of the essay isn't just the story you tell, but how you reflect on that story. Admissions officers want to see that you can think critically about your experiences and learn from them.
4. Avoid Clichés: Some topics tend to be overused, for example, victories or injuries in sports, moving schools, or the immigrant story. Instead, think of moments or experiences that are unique to your life.
Of course, do remember to keep within the word limit, which is 650 words. It's not a huge space, so use it wisely to deliver a concise, impactful message about yourself.
Best of luck with your essay! It's a chance to let your voice shine through, so take the time to really think about what you want to convey.
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