Does Virginia Tech Actually Read Your Common App Essay? (Spoiler Alert: They Don’t!)
So, you’re applying to Virginia Tech, and you’re probably wondering, “Do they actually read my Common App essay? Is it even worth my time?” Well, buckle up, buttercup, because the answer is a resounding NO! (But there’s a twist, so keep reading!)
Virginia Tech, in all its Hokies glory, has decided to go rogue and ignore the Common App essay completely. Yes, you read that right. They won’t even glance at it, not even if it’s written in the blood of a slain dragon. They’ve got their own set of prompts, and they’re sticking to them!
The Ut Prosim Prompts: A Glimpse into Your Soul (Maybe)
Virginia Tech prefers its applicants to delve into their “Ut Prosim” prompts, which means “That I may serve” in Latin (because, yes, they love their Latin). These prompts are designed to give them a peek into your soul, your ambitions, and your commitment to the Hokies way of life. Think of it as a personality test, but with a side of academics.
These prompts are no joke. They’re designed to challenge you, make you think critically, and demonstrate your ability to articulate your thoughts. They’ll want to know: * What makes you tick? What are your passions and interests? Do you dream of curing cancer or building the next big tech startup? Spill it! * How will you contribute to the Hokies community? Are you a team player? Do you have a knack for leadership? This is your chance to show them you’re a valuable addition to the Hokie family. * What are your academic aspirations? What are you planning to study? How will Virginia Tech help you achieve your goals? This is where you show off your academic prowess, but don’t be afraid to get creative. * What’s your story? This is your chance to shine. Tell them about the person behind the application. What life experiences have shaped you? What are your values? This is where your personality really comes through.
The Common App Essay: A Waste of Time? Not Quite…
Now, before you throw your Common App essay out the window, hold on a second! While Virginia Tech might not be interested in your personal statement, it can still benefit you in other ways.
Think of it as practice. Writing a powerful personal statement is a skill, and the more you practice, the better you’ll get. Plus, you can always tweak it for other applications that actually *do* read it. You’ve already done the hard work, so why not get some mileage out of it?
But here’s the real kicker: the Common App essay can help you stand out from the crowd. If you’re applying to other schools, Virginia Tech’s decision not to look at your essay is actually a good thing! It means you have more time and energy to focus on your other applications and make them really shine.
The Takeaway: Don’t Stress, Embrace the Challenge!
So, does Virginia Tech look at your Common App essay? Nope. Should you be disappointed? Absolutely not! Embrace this opportunity to showcase your unique voice and personality through their Ut Prosim prompts. And remember, the Common App essay isn’t a complete waste of time. It’s a chance to hone your writing skills and make your other applications even better.
Now, go forth and conquer those prompts, Hokies! Good luck!
Need more help with your Virginia Tech application? Check out the JobLoving community for additional tips and resources!