Any tips for the Coast Guard Academy essay?

I'm starting to draft my essay for the Coast Guard Academy application. Does anyone have tips on what to focus on or any examples that really stood out? I'm looking to make mine impactful and authentic.

Writing an essay for a service academy such as the Coast Guard Academy often has a different focus compared to a typical college application essay. At their core, service academies are looking for leaders who are ready to serve their country, so your essay should reflect this priority. Here are a few tips on how to make your essay impactful and authentic.

1. Highlight Your Leadership Skills: Discuss your past experiences where you've shown leadership. Perhaps you spearheaded a campaign in your school or community, or you've taken on responsibility within a club or team. This is your space to showcase your ability to guide others .

2. Showcase Your Commitment to Service: The Coast Guard Academy, like all military academies, places a high emphasis on service. If you have any experiences with volunteer work, public service, or experiences that have shaped your desire to serve, be sure to share that.

3. Describe Challenges Overcome: Though this can be common in many essays, a strong character narrative is particularly appealing for military academies. Describe a challenge you've faced, how you overcame it, and how it shaped your character. Remember that it can be impactful without being dramatic, it could be as simple as a project you took the lead on that faced some setbacks.

4. Talk about Tenacity and Grit: The Coast Guard Academy is a challenging environment. Exemplify your tenacity and willingness to persevere in demanding situations. Any gritty experiences that emphasize your endurance and determination will fall in line with the values of a military curriculum.

5. Show You've Done Your Research: Express clearly why you want to go to the Coast Guard Academy in particular—this should not appear as an essay that could be submitted to any academy. Mentioning specific programs or elements of the academy that draw you in will show you're serious about this specific path.

Remember, authenticity is crucial. While it's vital to address these points, your essay should still reflect your voice and your story. Good luck with your application!