News flash! The Common App has opened up, and now is the time when incoming high school seniors are brought up with the task of writing essay after essay for their college applications. Now there is the one essay that I would consider the most important one which is your personal statement essay which is one of the few ways to showcase who you truly are to admissions officers, making it one of the biggest impacts of the application process.
Crafting the perfect college essay can seem stressful, but with a thoughtful and well-rounded approach, students are given this one chance to share who they are. Of course, no matter how many times you edit your essay there's no such thing as a perfect essay, but who says we can't get close to it? In this article, we'll explore the easiest steps to help you write the best personal statement essay that captures the attention of admissions officers and truly reflects who you are.
Start with a Strong Hook
Opening your college essay with a strong hook is crucial to capturing the reader’s attention right from the outset. The first sentence or two should immediately engage the reader, whether through an intriguing anecdote, a shocking fact, or a deep question. This hook not only piques interest but also sets the tone for the rest of your essay, offering a glimpse into the theme or story you’ll be exploring.
An engaging anecdote can draw readers into a moment of significance, a surprising fact can challenge their assumptions, and a thought-provoking question can invite them to think deeply about an issue they care about. By crafting a compelling hook, you ensure that your essay stands out in a sea of applications, making the reader eager to learn more about you and your experiences.
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Be Authentic and Personal
Mistakes are bound to happen in the beginning stages of drafting your essay but the one mistake you should avoid before writing your essay is not writing it about you. It might seem obvious, but it's key to write about you! College admissions officers want to get to know you in 650 words or less.
If you spend too much time discussing your mom or best friend without relating it to you, it will be hard for the reader to understand your personal growth or the lessons you've learned. Your college essay should reflect your true self. Go above and beyond your test scores and grades and instead tell a personal story, event, and things you've learned.
Admissions officers want to listen to your out-of-the-box stories, so be honest and genuine in your writing. Don’t write what you think they want to hear; write about what matters to you. It may take some time to think of the right topic for your essay, and you certainly won't get it on the first draft. For example, I've had college essay ideas come to mind in the middle of the night and even in the shower, so I recommend keeping a list of potential essay topics because you never know which one you’ll want to revisit.
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Show, Don’t Just Tell
Using specific examples and vivid details in your college essay is crucial for making your narrative engaging and memorable. Rather than simply listing your qualities or achievements—which the admissions officers will already see on your transcript—use your essay to tell a story. For instance, if you’re writing about a time you demonstrated determination, set the scene by describing the environment and people involved.
By using specific examples and vivid details, you transform your essay from a list of qualities into a compelling story, making it more engaging and allowing admissions officers to see your character and experiences in a tangible, memorable way. Most importantly, do not steal other people’s essay ideas.
It's common for people to post their college essays on social media, and it can be tempting to borrow from their work, especially if they claim it earned them a scholarship or admission to a prestigious school. It’s okay to be inspired by someone's essay, but copying it can backfire.
Edit and Revise Thoroughly
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One of the final steps, which should occur multiple times during the drafting process, is editing and revising. After writing your initial draft, take a break and revisit it with fresh eyes. Check for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors.
Seek feedback from teachers, family, or friends, but ensure the final essay remains your own work. Thorough revision ensures your essay has no mistakes. You can even find people online who can review and give you feedback on your essay for a small fee. Many students have had their essays reviewed by counselors, teachers, parents, and even strangers, who can find missed mistakes. So, it doesn’t hurt to ask for help.
Conclusion
Writing a compelling college essay is a journey that requires determination and dedication. So, by using specific examples and vivid details, and thoroughly editing and revising your work, you can craft an essay that stands out to admissions officers. Remember, this is your chance to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores, so take the time to reflect on your experiences and tell your own story.
The process may be challenging, but with persistence and thoughtfulness, you can create an essay that not only meets but exceeds expectations. Focus on yourself and don't let anyone else college essay get in your way.
