I'm about to start writing my college essays and it's a little overwhelming. How should a college essay be structured to stand out? I mean, what should it look like? Not just in terms of formatting, but how do I structure my story or argument effectively?
I completely understand how the process can feel overwhelming—I've guided many students through it. Remember, an ideal college essay is less about a rigid structure and more about storytelling with a clear focus. The typical essay opens with an engaging hook; think about an anecdote or a moment that can vividly introduce your narrative. Follow this with paragraphs that unfold your story or exploration of a topic, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Your conclusion should tie back to the introduction, providing insight into how your narrative has shaped who you are or altered your perspective. Throughout your essay, be sure to use your authentic voice and reflect on your experiences, showing growth or change. For instance, instead of just narrating an event, discuss what lessons it taught you or how it pushed you to take action. Those insights make your essay stand out as they showcase your self-awareness and maturity.
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.