Your college essay is your opportunity to reveal your best qualities and to show the admissions committee what makes you stand out from other applicants.  While grades, strength of curriculum, and test scores are the top factors in the college admissions decisions, a majority of colleges and universities believe the essay to be of considerable or moderate importance in determining which academically qualified students they choose for admissions.

In other words, when all is equal between competing applicants, a compelling essay can make the difference.  A powerful, well-written essay can also tip the balance for a marginal applicant.