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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)

Writing 'About Me' for College Applications

Hello folks – a bit of a pickle here, how do I start an essay about myself for college without sounding too boring or egotistical? I want my personality to shine through but I'm unsure how to balance that with talking about my achievements and aspirations.

a year ago

Hey there! Starting your personal essay can indeed be challenging, but here's a bit of a trick: kick off by focusing not on your accomplishments but on a story or experience that paints a vivid picture of who you are and what matters to you. This approach naturally allows your personality to come through. By describing moments where your traits and values were tested or shone brightly, you also indirectly highlight your accomplishments and aspirations without seeming boastful.

For example, instead of saying 'I'm a tenacious problem-solver,' you could narrate the time you tirelessly worked to code an app that addresses a social issue in your community. This illustrates your problem-solving skills, while also giving a glimpse of your personal values and community involvement. Remember, it's not just about what you've done, but how you've done it and why it matters to you. Good luck, and let your genuine self be the star of your essay!

a year ago

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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.