Essay: So can it make the difference between acceptance and rejection?

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The essay can make the difference between acceptance and rejection! Acceptance into college becomes more difficult as more students apply for a finite number of spaces. There are probably thousands of students who look like you when equating your achievements to SAT/ACT scores and a GPA.

The essay must highlight your accomplishments and experiences that make you unique. It must distinguish you from thousands of other applicants who look like you on paper. It must demonstrate your:
Leadership
Writing ability
Keen intellect
Motivation
Maturity
Creativity


Most schools will provide you with questions that you must answer. For the most part most schools ask the same questions, phrased differently. You may be able to use the same well written essays multiple times.

Writing a stellar college is not easy so start early! The perfect time to start is the summer before your junior year. Form a study group with a few friends. Each week, work together on your essay. In the end, have them critique your essay and constructively critique their essay.


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Before you write...

Begin brainstorming possible essay topics: If the application limits you to a particular topic, brainstorm different ways to answer the question.

Think about what qualities you want the admissions office to know about yourself: Are you nice? Compassionate? Did you have struggles throughout your teenage years? Decide how you will be able to convey these qualities. Tell your unique story and avoid using clichés!

Organize your thoughts and experiences to focus your ideas. Outline your essay: It will help to organize your essay.


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Begin writing...

Write your essay: Your first paragraph should introduce your essay to the reader. Make the reader interested in your essay and excited to read more.

When writing your essay, use detailed descriptions: Refrain from telling your story. Use vivid details and active verbs.

Don't switch tenses, tone or style: If you decide to tell the story from the first person perspective, stick to this throughout the essay.

Answer the question: You learned this in Kindergarten. Follow all directions.

Make sure your essay is well organization: You do not have to necessarily follow the typical "introduction, body paragraph(s), conclusion format". However, your essay must be organized and tell a story that makes logical sense to a reader.



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After your first draft...

Edit your essay: Edit your essay yourself. Afterwards, ask a parent, teacher, or professional to edit and proofread your essay. If you submit an essay that contains errors, colleges may believe that you don't pay attention to detail and penalize you.

The essay is very important! Spend plenty of time constructing your essay. Remember the rules your English teacher taught you about constructing a strong essay.