Congratulations! You have made the decision to apply to a university, and that application requires you to write an essay. Your essay must do and be many things: it has to be accurate and honest; it must help you stand out among other applicants; and it must be well written. Writing an excellent application essay requires careful planning, self-reflection, and thoughtful execution. Following are some guidelines that can help you get your essay where it needs to be.
1. Review and Understand the Essay Prompt
Carefully read the essay prompt or question.
Identify what you believe the admissions committee is looking for in a model student (e.g., creativity, resilience, leadership).
Make sure you directly address the prompt or question asked.
2. Brainstorm Ideas
Reflect on your experiences, values, and achievements.
Consider personal stories that showcase your unique qualities, challenges you've overcome, or meaningful moments in your life.
Focus on moments where you believe your actions have demonstrated growth, passion, or initiative.
Questions to ask yourself:
What motivates you?
What makes you different?
How have specific experiences shaped who you are today?
3. Choose a Focus
Select one idea or theme to center your essay around. Remain focused on your individual chosen topic.
Highlight how the story or theme you are conveying in the essay connects to your goals, character, and potential contributions you can make to the school.
Authenticity is key—admission school officers want to understand who you are.
Write in your own voice and let your personality shine through.
Don’t exaggerate or fabricate stories; honesty builds trust.
4. Write a Compelling Introduction
Start with a “hook” that will grab the reader's attention. Examples include:
A vivid anecdote or memory
A surprising fact
A thought-provoking question
Set the tone and properly introduce the central theme or story of your essay.
5. Develop the Body with Specific Examples
Use concrete details and personal examples that can bring your essay to life.
Show, don’t tell—describe how events unfolded and how they impacted you.
Instead of saying, “I’m a hard worker,” share a moment when your persistence paid off.
Highlight your emotions, thought processes, and lessons learned.
6. Connect Your Story to the School
Show how your experiences have prepared you for college and why the school is a good fit for you, and vice versa.
Research the school’s programs, values, and opportunities, and incorporate them naturally into your essay.
Avoid generic statements that may come across as empty flattery (e.g., “This school is prestigious”). Be specific about what excites you about the school.
7. Craft a Strong Conclusion
Reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown from your experiences.
Tie back to your introduction or central theme to give the essay a sense of closure.
End on an optimistic note that highlights your enthusiasm for the future.
8. Edit and Refine
Revise for Clarity and Impact: Ensure that every sentence serves a purpose. Cut unnecessary words and any areas where you have gone off message.
Check Grammar and Style: Use active voice, vary your sentence structure, and avoid clichés.
Get Feedback: Share your essay with teachers, mentors, or trusted friends and solicit their constructive criticism.
Proofread Carefully: Typos and errors can leave a bad impression.
Add new comment