You all know that colleges look at high school GPAs and SAT scores to determine college entrance. Many schools also require an essay or personal statement. Some colleges require that you write on a particular topic such as: "Describe an incident which changed your life" or "State why you would like to attend this college and what you can offer to this college." Other colleges will leave it entirely up to you and only prescribe the length. Here's one hot off the web page from Tutf's University: “What does #YOLO mean to you?”
Here is a personal statement "tool kit" recommended by Ms. Burns: Story2.com
The following two essays are required by the UCs.
Describe the world you come from — for example, your family, community or school — and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations.
Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are?
Common Application Personal Essays
See previously written personal essays as examples.