USC: Three Words to Describe Yourself

So, USC asks applicants to describe themselves in three words. I'm having a hard time narrowing my list down. How should I approach this? What kind of words should I choose to make sure I'm giving the best impression possible? Please help!

When choosing the three words to describe yourself for USC, it's important to give a well-rounded glimpse of who you are. Here are some tips on how to approach this task:

1. Showcase your uniqueness: Pick words that set you apart from other applicants. Think about your strengths, values, and passions that might not be obvious from the rest of your application. You want the words to be memorable and make the admissions officers curious to learn more about you.

2. Be truthful: Don't just choose buzzwords that you think will impress the admissions officers. Instead, select words that genuinely represent who you are. Being authentic is more impactful than trying to conform to an idealized image of a "perfect" applicant.

3. Consider variety: Choosing three words that each represent a different aspect of your personality or experiences will create a more comprehensive picture of who you are. For example, if you're devoted to community service, athletic, and have a quirky sense of humor, you might pick "compassionate," "competitive," and "whimsical."

4. Reflect on your experiences: Think about the situations in which you've excelled or grown and consider what qualities you demonstrated or developed in those situations. This can help you identify words that truly represent you.

5. Don't overthink it: While you want to choose words that showcase your strengths and uniqueness, remember that this is just a small part of your application. It's important not to stress too much over this question. Just be true to yourself and make sure your words are a genuine representation of your character.

As an example, a person passionate about environmental conservation, with strong public speaking skills and a knack for innovative problem-solving might choose words like "eco-conscious," "eloquent," and "resourceful." These words not only describe the applicant but also pique the interest of the admissions officer who might want to learn more about this unique combination of traits.

For more information on the USC supplemental essays and how to write them click here: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-usc-essays/

Good luck! Remember to be yourself and let your true personality shine through your choice of words.