Essay Tutorial  Two

🎓 College Application Essay Tutorial for High School Seniors

✨ Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Prompt

Most colleges use prompts from the Common App. Examples include:

• "Describe a background, identity, interest, or talent that is meaningful to you."

• "Recount a time you faced a challenge or failure. What did you learn?"

📌 Tip: Choose a prompt that lets you tell a story only you can tell.

2. Brainstorm Your Story

Think about:

• A moment that changed you

• A challenge you overcame

• A passion that drives you

• A quirky trait that defines you

Use freewriting or mind maps to explore ideas.

3. Create an Outline

Structure your essay like a mini-memoir:

• Hook: Start with a vivid moment or intriguing statement

• Body: Show growth, insight, or transformation

• Conclusion: Reflect on how this shapes your future

4. Write Authentically

Use your natural voice. Avoid clichés like “I learned the value of hard work.” Instead, show it through action and emotion.

5. Revise Ruthlessly

• Cut fluff

• Clarify ideas

• Strengthen transitions

• Ask teachers or mentors for feedback

📝 Example College Essays

Here are standout essays from real students:

1. "My Pillows & Me"

A student reflects on how her childhood pillow fort became a metaphor for resilience and creativity.
👉 Read it on College Essay Guy

2. "Finding My Voice" (250 words)

A shy student discovers confidence through poetry and open mic nights.
👉 See full essay on CollegeEssay.org

3. "Embracing Diversity: Empathy Across Borders" (500 words)

A student shares how growing up in a multicultural household inspired a cultural exchange program.
👉 Full example also on CollegeEssay.org

4. "Laptop Stickers"

An essay that uses the stickers on a laptop to tell a story about identity, interests, and values.
👉 Find it on College Essay Guy’s blog

💡 Final Tips

• Be specific: Details make your story memorable.

• Show, don’t tell: Use scenes and dialogue.

• Stay within word limits: Usually 250–650 words.

• Proofread: Typos can distract from your message.

CREATED WITH HELP FROM MS COPILOT