LET'S HEAR YOUR VOICE. Some colleges will ask you to write a college essay as part of the admissions process. This helps the college get a sense of who you are in your own words, beyond grades and test scores. A good college essay could help elevate your application so take the time to say something meaningful about yourself.
THINGS TO REMEMBER:
Be Authentic. - Don't stress trying to write what you THINK they are looking for. Readers want to hear YOUR voice so just showcase who you are!
Start now! - Writing something meaningful can be a long process so start now to allow time for revisions.
Make it personal - Whatever experience/topic you write about, make it personal by going beyond the what or the who and dig in to the HOW & the WHY of it. How did this person change you? Why is this experience meaningful to your growth?
A Good Fit. - Show them you have thought carefully about where you are applying and that you are a good fit for the college. Describe your commitment to learning & how you are able to contribute to the college community.
Read. Edit. Reread. Repeat. - Yes, taking the time to reread and revise will help you develop a strong opening and refine what you are trying to express.
Be Specific. - If there is a essay question, make sure you answer it. If it's a narrative, make your point and stick to it. Provide detailed examples instead of a list of things.
Spell Check It! - Don't forget a key component of success in college is writing ability so correct grammar, punctuation and spelling matter.