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Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Any insider tips on what makes a college essay stand out?

Trying not to freak out, but does anyone have advice on key elements that can really make a college essay memorable and compelling? What do admission officers typically look for in a 'good' essay?

11 months ago

Hey there! No need to freak out, you've got this! From my experience, a compelling college essay often showcases a student's unique voice and perspective. Admissions officers look for authenticity—a story only you can tell. Instead of trying to guess what they want to hear, focus on reflecting on your experiences in a meaningful way.

One key element is a clear narrative. Whether you're describing a challenge you've overcome, a passion that drives you, or a moment that changed your perspective, your essay should have a flow that's easy to follow. Remember, this is your chance to provide context that isn't apparent elsewhere in your application.

Specific details can also bring your story to life. Instead of general statements, offer vivid descriptions and anecdotes that immerse the reader in your world. For example, instead of writing, 'I love music,' describe the feeling of exhilaration you get when your fingers strum the first chord on your guitar. Lastly, don't forget to proofread! Nothing distracts from a great story like typos or grammatical errors. Best of luck, and just be yourself. The right colleges will appreciate your uniqueness!

11 months ago

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