I'm starting to think about my college essays and I'm kinda lost. What are some tips for writing a compelling Common Application essay? How did you guys approach this important part of the application?
It's normal to feel a little lost when starting your college essays. The Common App essay is an important part of your application, but don't worry, I have some tips to help you craft a compelling essay!
1. Brainstorm: Start by brainstorming ideas for topics that allow you to share a unique, personal story or showcase your personality. Make a list of experiences, challenges, or moments that shaped who you are, and then narrow it down to a specific story that you think can be engaging and convey your character and goals.
2. Choose your Common App essay prompt: Review the seven provided prompts, and identify which one best aligns with the story you've chosen. Keep in mind that the prompts are quite flexible, and many different stories can fit into them.
3. Be personal, authentic, and genuine: Your essay should reveal your true self to the admissions officers. Avoid trying to impress them with fancy language or achievements. Instead, focus on your personal voice, emotions, and reflections. This will make your essay relatable and powerful.
4. Show, don't tell: Use strong, vivid, and descriptive language to paint a picture of your story. The reader should be able to feel the emotions and visualize the scenes you are writing about. This will make your story more engaging and impactful.
5. Start with an engaging hook: Captivate your reader from the beginning with a hook that intrigues and leaves them wanting more. This can be a question, a surprising fact, an anecdote, or a bold statement – anything that sparks interest and invites them to continue reading.
6. Have a clear structure: Organize your essay with a clear beginning, middle, and end. It should follow a logical progression of ideas that leads to a satisfying conclusion. This will make it easier for your reader to follow your story and understand the main message you’re trying to convey.
7. Revise, revise, revise: Writing a strong essay often takes multiple drafts. Don't be afraid to rewrite parts of your essay or even start from scratch if your initial draft isn't resonating with you. Seeking feedback from friends, family, or teachers can be very helpful in refining your essay.
8. Edit carefully: After you're satisfied with your content, invest time in proofreading your essay for grammar, syntax, and punctuation errors. A polished essay demonstrates that you take your application seriously and respect the reader's time.
Remember to give yourself plenty of time for brainstorming, writing, and revising. Happy writing, and best of luck with your Common App essay!
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