College Essays Tips
AUTHENTIC & IMPERFECT (NOT “Unique”)
Avoid Cliches Like the Plague
“I’m hardworking, ambitious and driven”
“I love to be challenged”
“My thirst for knowledge”
“My peers often look to me for leadership”
The “WHY US” Essay - demonstrated interest
- Not reading the school’s website
- Specifics to Academics, Internships, Clubs, Organizations, Traditions
Don’t do catchy openings! Most are artificial and feel forced. Don’t start with:
- A quote
- Question
- Dialogue
- A sound!
Remember, authenticity matters!
Campus Visit
Would you buy a $100K car without seeing it in person first?
DEMONSTRATED INTEREST
TOPICS TO AVOID
Volunteering: Saving rainforests, going on mission trips
Sports Injuries: Everyone tears their ACL
Things ALREADY ON YOUR APPLICATION! (Robotics Club, Debate Team,
Academics, Sports, Jobs, etc.)
TOPICS TO USE:
ANYTHING WITH AN INTRINSIC VALUE - Is there anything you do JUST FOR YOU?
(Not to pad your application, for awards or scores, for $, etc.). Like playing pick up
basketball every week or crafting/making art
Variables out of your control Diversity of:
- Race
- Religion
- Ethnicity
- Gender
- Geography
Plus…
- Likelihood of enrolling
- Fund-raising Potential
- Legacies
Final tips:
Apply to at least 10 colleges, 12 is good. More is overkill.
Reach schools - YES
Did you struggle for your grades?
Check your web footprint: Google images, etc.
Email addresses - make sure it shows your professional side