The College Essay

Personal Insight Questions and Personal Statements

*Even MOre Info Coming Soon!*

Many colleges require a personal essay. Some will also have additional writing supplements. Essay prompts can be anything from the typical “Tell us something about yourself” to something off-the-wall that will enable the creative student to do his or her thing.

College essays are important in the application process.

Common Application Prompts for 2020-21

UC Personal Insight Questions for 2020-21

COVID-19 Question on 2020-2021 Common App

Personal Statement Do’s

  • Personalize your essays using your own voice. The admissions reader wants to know about YOU.

  • Avoid generalities.

  • Write about something you really care about and its significance in your life.

  • Stay within the space provided (be aware of the word count).

  • Have someone else read your essay and give suggestions. (your English teacher, friends and counselor are good resources).

  • Write it (three or four rough drafts is the norm for writing a good essay), set it aside for a while, revise it, have someone else edit it, then finalize it when you know it really reflects who you are.

Personal Statement Don’ts

  • Do not try to write a funny essay if you are not a good comic writer.

  • Do not repeat information from other parts of your application.

  • Do not use words you have never used, the essay needs to sound like you.

  • Do not use your essay to list things you have done (it is already stated in your application).

  • Do not write about a topic unless it is truly significant for you.

  • Do not write your essay for the admissions reader.

  • Write it for yourself but make it interesting for the people evaluating your essays.