First-Generation Student Resources

College Application Guide

College applications can be quite difficult to complete, so we have provided information to help get you through the essay questions.

Colorado Free Application Day

Every year, Colorado residents are able to apply for colleges within the state free of charge from October 18th to October 20th!

WHAT KIND OF QUESTIONS/TOPICS ARE ASKED OF US FOR THE ESSAY PORTION?

The essay portion of college admissions can be stressful and intimidating! A great way to begin with writing your essay(s) is to understand what the college admission board is looking for within your essay(s). Usually, college admissions will provide an essay prompt(s) that is directly about you and your personal experiences. These prompts range from being about your challenges, your desires, and/or your goals. College admissions are typically looking for an essay that allows them to see past your student identity and into what makes you, you.

EXAMPLES OF QUESTIONS/TOPICS

Write about a time when you were inspired
What inspired you? How did this affect you? Why did this inspire you?
Describe a facet of your identity that heavily contributes to who you are
What is that facet? How did this shape you? Why is this the facet you chose?
Write about a time when you were challenged/when you failed
What challenged you/what did you fail at? How did this shape you? Why does this moment stand out to you?
Write about something you are passionate about
What is it that you are passionate about? How did this affect you? Why are you passionate about this thing?
Write about a time you had to be brave
What is it that you were being brave about? How did this affect you? Why were you brave?

FAQs About the Essay Portion of College Apps

WHAT ESSAY FORMAT DO WE USE WHEN WRITING THE ESSAY?

Since a lot of the essays are personal narratives, it is usually best to break up each paragraph theme by theme, or in some sort of chronological order or events! You can begin with an introduction, introducing the topic you are writing about, and providing an opening statement that outlines your essay. From there, you can craft your body paragraphs, and end with a conclusion that briefly summarizes your essay's main points and themes!

HOW DO WE KEEP THE INFORMATION WE WANT TO SHARE WITHIN THE WORD COUNT?

Sometimes, it is easy to overshare in a personal narrative. And sometimes, it is just as easy to under share and not make it to that required word count! Take your time, pay attention to detail, and place the reader within the moment you are writing about.

DOES THE ESSAY PORTION EVEN MATTER?

Yes! Most schools are really interested in getting to know you (the applicant) outside of your educational experience. The essay portion gives the college admissions board a chance at getting to know who you are, who you’ve come to be, and if the school would be a good place for you!

Remember: Essays are about you and you're the leading expert on all things you!

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