The college application process can be daunting, but the Common Application has made it easier for students to apply to multiple colleges with just one application. One essential part of the Common Application is the personal essay, which gives students the opportunity to showcase their unique qualities and experiences. In this article, we’ll provide five tips for writing a standout Common Application essay.
Contents
- 1 Understanding the Common Application
- 2 Choose a Compelling Topic
- 3 Craft a Strong Opening
- 4 Tell Your Story Authentically
- 5 Show, Don’t Tell
- 6 Highlight Your Achievements and Growth
- 7 Revise and Edit
- 8 Seek Feedback
- 9 Meet Application Deadlines
- 10 Create a Checklist
- 11 Conclusion
- 12 FAQ
- 12.1 Q: What is the Common Application?
- 12.2 Q: Why is the Common Application important?
- 12.3 Q: How do I choose a compelling topic for my Common Application essay?
- 12.4 Q: How can I craft a strong opening for my essay?
- 12.5 Q: Why is it important to tell my story authentically?
- 12.6 Q: What does it mean to “show, don’t tell” in my essay?
- 12.7 Q: How can I highlight my achievements and growth in my essay?
- 12.8 Q: Why is revising and editing important for my essay?
- 12.9 Q: Should I seek feedback on my essay?
- 12.10 Q: How important is it to meet application deadlines?
- 12.11 Q: What should I include in my college application checklist?
Key Takeaways:
- Choose a compelling and unique topic
- Craft a strong opening to grab the attention of admissions committees
- Tell your story authentically
- Show, don’t tell, by using vivid descriptions and specific details
- Highlight your achievements and personal growth
- Revise and edit your essay for clarity, coherence, and error-free writing
- Seek feedback from trusted individuals
- Meet application deadlines and create a checklist to stay organized
Understanding the Common Application
The Common Application is a standardized college application used by more than 900 universities in the United States and other countries. It was created to simplify the application process and make it more efficient for both students and colleges.
With the Common Application, students can submit one application to multiple colleges at the same time. This not only saves time but also reduces the stress of filling out multiple applications with similar information. Additionally, the Common Application helps ensure that applicants provide the necessary information that colleges require.
Colleges that use the Common Application receive a holistic view of the applicant, including academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and other relevant information. This allows colleges to consider applicants based on more than just test scores and grades.
It is important to note that while many colleges accept the Common Application, some schools have their own application process. Therefore, it is crucial to research and understand the admission requirements of each college before applying.
Choose a Compelling Topic
One of the most critical components of a standout Common Application essay is choosing a compelling topic. Admissions committees receive thousands of essays, and selecting a topic that stands out can help an applicant differentiate themselves from the crowd.
When selecting a topic, consider your unique experiences, interests, and perspectives. Avoid common or overused topics, such as a sports injury or travel experience, unless you can bring a fresh and unique angle to the story.
Brainstorming
Brainstorming can help generate ideas for potential essay topics. Start by listing your personal qualities, experiences, challenges, and accomplishments. Think about moments that have shaped your life or taught you valuable life lessons. Consider what sets you apart from others and what you can contribute to a college community.
Once you have a list of potential topics, narrow it down to one or two that are the most compelling. Remember, the topic should highlight your strengths and showcase your personality.
Craft a Strong Opening
The opening of your Common Application essay is your chance to make a strong first impression on admissions committees. It should capture their attention and make them eager to read on. Here are some tips for crafting a powerful opening:
- Start with a hook: Begin your essay with a statement or question that grabs the reader’s attention and makes them want to learn more. This could be a surprising fact, a compelling quote, or a personal anecdote that illustrates the theme of your essay.
- Avoid clichés: Admissions committees read hundreds of essays, so it’s important to avoid overused phrases or topics. Try to come up with a fresh take on a familiar subject or choose a unique topic that showcases your individuality.
- Show, don’t tell: Instead of simply stating that you are passionate about a particular subject or activity, use specific details and examples to demonstrate your enthusiasm. This will make your essay more engaging and memorable.
Remember, the opening of your Common Application essay is just the beginning. Use the rest of your essay to tell your story and showcase your strengths and accomplishments. And be sure to revise and edit your essay carefully to ensure that it’s clear, concise, and error-free.
Tell Your Story Authentically
When writing your Common Application essay, it’s important to remember that admissions committees are looking for more than just your achievements and grades. They want to get to know the person behind the application, which means sharing your unique story authentically.
Here are some tips for telling your story in a genuine and compelling way:
- Be yourself. Don’t try to sound like someone you’re not, or write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Write in your own voice, and let your personality shine through.
- Use specific examples. Avoid generalizations and clichés, and instead, focus on specific moments or experiences that illustrate your character and values.
- Show vulnerability. Admissions committees want to see that you’re human, and that you’ve faced challenges and setbacks. Don’t be afraid to share your struggles, but be sure to also highlight how you overcame them.
- Stay true to your values. Write about what matters to you, and don’t shy away from expressing your opinions or beliefs. Just make sure to do so respectfully and diplomatically.
Remember, the Common Application essay is your chance to showcase who you are beyond your transcripts and test scores. By telling your story authentically, you give the admissions committee a glimpse into your unique perspective and personality, and increase your chances of standing out from the crowd.
Show, Don’t Tell
One of the most important things to keep in mind when writing your Common Application essay is the concept of “show, don’t tell.” This means that instead of simply stating your experiences or opinions, you should use detailed descriptions and examples to bring them to life for the reader.
For example, instead of saying “I’m passionate about helping others,” you might write about the time you volunteered at a homeless shelter and describe the sights, sounds, and emotions you experienced while serving meals and interacting with residents. By painting a vivid picture, you allow the reader to draw their own conclusions about your character and values.
Another way to incorporate “show, don’t tell” into your essay is to use specific details and examples to illustrate your points. Rather than making broad statements about your achievements or skills, provide concrete evidence to support them. For instance, instead of saying “I’m a hard worker,” describe an instance where you persevered through a difficult task or overcame a challenge.
Finally, don’t be afraid to be creative and use literary techniques such as similes, metaphors, and sensory language to make your essay more engaging. Just remember to balance your use of these techniques with clarity and coherence, and avoid overusing them to the point of distraction.
Highlight Your Achievements and Growth
Your Common Application essay provides a great opportunity to highlight your achievements and personal growth. Admissions committees are looking for applicants who have demonstrated a strong work ethic, commitment to their community, and the ability to overcome challenges.
Start by brainstorming a list of your accomplishments, both big and small. These can include academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or personal experiences that have shaped you. Once you have a comprehensive list, choose the ones that are most meaningful to you and can showcase your strengths.
Tip: | Choose accomplishments that align with the college admission requirements. |
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When writing about your achievements, make sure to avoid sounding boastful by showing humility and acknowledging the help of others. Be specific and use concrete examples that illustrate your hard work and dedication. Admissions committees want to see how you have grown as an individual, so don’t be afraid to write about challenges or setbacks you have faced and how you have overcome them.
Highlighting your achievements and growth is important, but make sure to do so in a way that feels authentic to you. Don’t exaggerate your accomplishments or try to be someone you’re not. Admissions committees can spot insincerity from a mile away.
- Make a list of your accomplishments, big and small.
- Choose the ones that align with the college admission requirements and showcase your strengths.
- Be specific and use concrete examples.
- Show humility and acknowledge the help of others.
- Write about challenges or setbacks you have faced and how you have overcome them.
- Be authentic and avoid exaggeration.
Revise and Edit
After completing a draft of your Common Application essay, take the time to revise and edit thoroughly. This step is crucial to ensure your essay is clear, concise, and error-free. Here are some tips for effective revision and editing:
- Take a break. Step away from your essay for a while before revising. This will help you approach it with fresh eyes.
- Read it out loud. Hearing your essay can help you identify awkward sentence structures and typos.
- Ask for feedback. Seek input from trusted individuals, such as teachers or mentors, to gain valuable perspectives and improve the essay.
- Check for consistency. Make sure your essay is consistent in tone, tense, and point of view throughout.
- Eliminate unnecessary words. Look for words or phrases that can be eliminated without changing the meaning of your essay.
- Proofread. Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and correct them before submitting your application.
By revising and editing your essay, you can ensure that it presents you in the best possible light. Remember, this essay is an important opportunity to showcase your personality, voice, and experiences to college admissions committees.
Seek Feedback
After completing the essay, it’s always helpful to seek feedback from others. Consider asking teachers, mentors, or family members to read your essay and provide their thoughts. They may offer valuable insights or catch errors that you missed. It can be especially helpful to seek feedback from someone who has experience with the college application process.
However, keep in mind that not all feedback is equal. Be selective about who you ask for feedback and take their suggestions with a grain of salt. Ultimately, it’s important to stay true to your own voice and vision for the essay.
Meet Application Deadlines
Meeting college application deadlines is crucial for ensuring a smooth and stress-free application process. Keep in mind that application deadlines vary by college, so be sure to check the deadlines for each school you plan to apply to.
Creating a timeline for completing each application can help you stay organized and avoid missing any important deadlines. Be sure to give yourself ample time to gather all necessary materials, including transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation.
It’s also important to note that some colleges may have early application deadlines, which can give applicants a higher chance of acceptance. However, these deadlines typically require more preparation and planning, so make sure to research the early application options for each college and plan accordingly.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to submit your application a few days before the actual deadline, just in case any unforeseen circumstances arise that could cause a delay.
Create a Checklist
As you navigate the college application process, it is essential to stay organized. Creating a checklist can help you keep track of important deadlines, required documents, and other essential tasks. Here are some items to include in your college application checklist:
- Research and finalize the list of colleges you want to apply to
- Check the application deadlines and requirements for each college
- Collect all necessary documents, including transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation
- Write a draft of your Common Application essay and have it reviewed by a teacher or mentor
- Submit your college applications before the deadline
- Follow up with any additional requirements or requests from colleges
By creating a comprehensive checklist, you can ensure that you don’t miss any critical steps in the college application process. Be sure to continually update and review your checklist to stay on track and meet all deadlines.
Conclusion
Writing a standout Common Application essay is essential to securing a place at your dream college. By understanding what the Common Application is and following these five tips, applicants can create an essay that truly showcases their strengths and experiences.
As you begin writing your essay, remember to choose a compelling topic that reflects your unique personality and experiences. Start strong with a powerful opening that grabs the attention of admissions committees and tells your story authentically. Use vivid descriptions and specific details to show, not tell, and highlight your achievements and personal growth.
Remember to revise and edit your essay thoroughly, seeking feedback from trusted individuals, and meet all application deadlines to ensure a smooth and successful application process. By using a checklist and staying organized, you can help make sure you don’t miss any important steps.
Putting effort into your Common Application essay can make all the difference in getting accepted into the college of your dreams. Good luck and happy writing!
FAQ
Q: What is the Common Application?
A: The Common Application is an online platform used by over 900 colleges and universities for undergraduate admissions. It allows students to apply to multiple schools using a single application.
Q: Why is the Common Application important?
A: The Common Application simplifies the college application process by providing a standardized form that can be submitted to multiple institutions. It saves time and effort for applicants and allows colleges to easily review and compare applicants.
Q: How do I choose a compelling topic for my Common Application essay?
A: To choose a compelling topic, consider your unique experiences, interests, and values. Reflect on personal challenges or significant moments that have shaped you. Select a topic that will allow you to showcase your personality and demonstrate your potential to contribute to the college community.
Q: How can I craft a strong opening for my essay?
A: To craft a strong opening, consider starting with a captivating anecdote, a thought-provoking quote, or a vivid description. Grab the reader’s attention and make them eager to continue reading your essay.
Q: Why is it important to tell my story authentically?
A: Authenticity is crucial because admissions committees want to get to know the real you. Be honest and genuine in sharing your experiences and perspectives. This will allow the reader to connect with your story on a deeper level.
Q: What does it mean to “show, don’t tell” in my essay?
A: “Show, don’t tell” means using specific details, vivid imagery, and descriptive language to paint a picture for the reader. Instead of simply stating a fact, show the reader through storytelling and engaging descriptions.
Q: How can I highlight my achievements and growth in my essay?
A: Focus on specific accomplishments and describe how they have impacted your personal growth. Reflect on challenges you have overcome, lessons you have learned, and how these experiences have shaped you as an individual.
Q: Why is revising and editing important for my essay?
A: Revising and editing ensure that your essay is clear, concise, and error-free. It allows you to refine your ideas, improve the flow of your writing, and catch any grammatical or spelling mistakes.
Q: Should I seek feedback on my essay?
A: Seeking feedback from trusted individuals can provide valuable insights and help you improve your essay. Consider asking teachers, mentors, or peers for their thoughts and suggestions.
Q: How important is it to meet application deadlines?
A: Meeting application deadlines is crucial as late submissions may not be considered. It demonstrates your ability to manage time effectively and shows your commitment to the application process.
Q: What should I include in my college application checklist?
A: Your college application checklist should include items such as completing the Common Application, requesting transcripts and recommendation letters, writing the essay, and submitting supporting documents like test scores or portfolios, if required.