Hey guys, I'm applying to the University of Washington and I'm curious about their essay topics and any tips you might have for writing an amazing essay that stands out. Much appreciated!
Hey there! Luckily for you, CollegeVine has a blog post breaking down UW's current supplemental essay prompts, to give you a clear sense of how to tackle each one: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-washington-essays/. Additionally, CollegeVine offers both a free peer essay review tool and paid reviews by expert college admissions advisors - either of these resources lets you get a more objective set of eyes on your essay, which can help you identify areas for improvement that you had previously missed.
There are also some general tips that will lead you to success for any college essay:
1. Be genuine and authentic: Stay true to yourself and your experiences. Honesty resonates with the admissions committee.
2. Focus on one story or aspect: Don't try to cover everything. Choose a specific story or experience that truly represents you and provides insight into your character.
3. Show, don't tell: Use vivid details and descriptive language to paint a clear picture of your experiences. This approach will help the reader feel connected to your story.
4. Break clichés: Avoid cliché topics or generic statements. Instead, find a way to discuss your experiences from a unique angle or write about something uncommon. CollegeVine's blog also contains guidance on generic topics that you'll want to avoid: https://blog.collegevine.com/cliche-college-essay-topics.
5. Edit and revise: Take the time to proofread, edit, and revise your essay to ensure it's polished and well-written. Get feedback from someone you trust, such as a teacher, counselor, or a friend - they can help you evaluate how well your true personality is coming across.
Remember that a great essay is one that represents you well and gives the admissions committee insight into who you are. Good luck with your application to the University of Washington! Break a leg!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.