The College Essay

The essay is probably the most important part of your application. At least it is the place that allows you the most flexibility. Many colleges ask you to respond to one of five essay questions. Think carefully about the questions and how you will respond to them. This is your chance to communicate to the admissions committee about the person behind the application. . .the real you.

Word-process your essay. You are likely to have several sample essay assignments in your English classes during your junior and senior years. Use your Humanities teachers, counselor, parents and even your friends to help you with your college essay. You will want to have your essay checked for content and also for correct grammar and spelling.

The point to be made with an essay is that it is your best opportunity to distinguish yourself among other applicants. You have a chance to show your ability to write, and also your character, beliefs and aspirations. It does not matter what your topic is; the essay should not be a description of events. Your college essay must tell how you feel about the event or activity. What you have learned from experience is essential for you to communicate to the reader.

Here are some tips that may help you to write your essay:  

1. Count on writing several drafts before it is final.
2. Use the standard rules of good writing. Be concise, be interesting, and use a "grabber" in the first line or paragraph to catch the reader.
3. Don’t try to write what you think the committee wants to hear. The readers are not looking for something in particular; they are looking to learn more about who you are.
4. Don’t even think of having someone else write the essay for you; no one else can possibly communicate who you really are. Writing is a learning experience that you need to practice.
5. Your topic does not have to be dramatic, bizarre or unusual. You can write about the most ordinary daily activity you do or story you read. It is how you communicate what you have learned or how you have changed that counts.
6. Never use the essay to tell why you have undistinguished grades or how you know your next term will be better. An essay of excuses, no matter how valid, highlights your weaknesses. Your essay should always lead from your strengths. If you feel you have a valid reason for have a poor grade(s), discuss it with your counselor, he/she will explain it to the college admissions personnel.
7. You should know that the more selective the college, the more emphasis it places on the essay. Good colleges expect good writers.
8. Most importantly, remember that English is not just for English class! Apply the good writing skills you have learned in class. Make the transition from writing assignments of analytical, expository, personal or argumentative styles to the writing of your essay. Tie in a literary reference, an object that you have read about. Integrating the personal statement with literature is an interesting way to write an essay.

Source: The Best Guide to the Top Colleges by Joyce Slayton Mitchell.

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