What are some common mistakes to avoid on the Common App?

Hi there! I'm a junior who's starting to work on my Common App, and I want to make sure I don't make any mistakes that could hurt my chances of getting into my dream schools. What are some common mistakes that students make on the Common App, and how can I avoid them? Thanks so much for your help!

Hi! First of all, good on you for starting early on your Common App. It's great that you're being proactive about this. As someone who went through the process with my own child, I can share some common mistakes you might want to avoid. First, make sure you proofread your application multiple times to catch any spelling or grammar errors. It's often helpful to have someone else, like a parent, teacher, or friend, review it too. Next, be mindful of the word count for your essays. Stick to the limits, as admissions officers have a lot to read and often appreciate concise writing. Also, be authentic and genuine in your essays. Avoid clichés and focus on what makes you unique. When listing your extracurricular activities, prioritize quality over quantity. Highlight the activities that genuinely mattered to you and where you made a significant impact. Lastly, keep track of deadlines and give yourself plenty of time to submit your application. Technical issues can happen, and you don't want to miss a deadline due to a last-minute glitch. Good luck with your application process!