“The Common App Essay: Your Chance to Shine (or, How to Avoid Writing a Snoozefest)”
So, you’re applying to college. Congrats! You’ve survived years of homework, standardized tests, and existential crises about your future. But now comes the dreaded Common App essay – the one that’s supposed to reveal your soul, your dreams, and your unique perspective on life.
(Cue dramatic music)
Fear not, my fellow applicants! This essay isn’t some mystical ritual that only the chosen few can decipher. It’s simply a chance to tell your story in a way that makes you stand out from the crowd of other high-achieving, well-rounded, and (let’s be honest) slightly neurotic teenagers.
Think of it like this: The admissions committee is a bunch of tired, overworked college folks who have to read thousands of essays. They’re looking for something interesting, something that makes them go, “Whoa, this kid is different!”
What is the Common App Essay, Really?
Let’s break down this beast. The Common App essay is your opportunity to showcase your personality, your experiences, and your unique voice. It’s a chance to go beyond the transcript and the standardized test scores and actually let the admissions committee see who you are.
Think of it as a personal statement disguised as an essay. It’s about YOU, not about your accomplishments (though those are important too, obviously).
The Big Questions Everyone Asks:
- “What’s the difference between a personal statement and a personal essay?” This is like asking, “What’s the difference between a cat and a furry, whiskered, four-legged creature that meows?” (Okay, maybe not that dramatic, but you get the idea.) A personal statement, in general, is a shorter piece of writing (around 250-500 words) that focuses on a specific topic or theme. Think college application essays, scholarship essays, or job application essays. It’s basically a concise summary of your relevant experiences and why you’re a good fit for the program/position. A personal essay, on the other hand, is a bit more expansive. It’s a chance to explore a specific theme or topic in greater depth, showcasing your voice and your ability to tell a story.
- “How do I format this thing?” Here’s the deal: Your essay needs to be between 250-650 words. You can use a standard five-paragraph structure (intro, body paragraphs, conclusion), but don’t feel constrained by that. The key is to create a clear, cohesive narrative that flows smoothly from beginning to end. Pro Tip: Don’t indent your paragraphs. The Common App platform doesn’t allow it. Instead, use an empty line to separate each paragraph.
The Secret Sauce to a Killer Common App Essay:
Now, let’s talk about the real magic behind the essay: You. It’s about your unique story, your experiences, and the person behind the application.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients:
- Start Strong: Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention immediately. Think of it as the hook that reels them in. You can start with a brief, personal story, an interesting fact, or a strong statement that sets the tone for your essay.
- Use an Active Voice: Don’t be afraid to use action verbs and show, not tell. Instead of saying, “I am a hard worker,” describe a specific instance where you demonstrated that hard work.
- Write Conversationally: Your essay should sound like you’re talking to someone. Avoid overly complex language and stay true to your own voice.
- Proofread, Proofread, Proofread: This is probably the most important step. Read your essay aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or grammatical errors. Even better, ask a trusted friend or teacher to look it over.
- The Common App Essay Prompts: You’ll have six prompts to choose from, each posing a different question or challenge. Take your time to carefully read each prompt and choose the one that resonates most with you. Think of the prompts as jumping-off points for your story. Don’t force yourself to fit into a prompt that doesn’t feel authentic.
Crafting Your Narrative:
Here’s where it gets interesting. You need to choose a topic that allows you to showcase your personality and values while telling a compelling story.
Think about these things:
- What are you passionate about?
- What makes you different?
- What experiences have shaped who you are?
Once you’ve identified a topic, start brainstorming. Think about the key moments, the challenges, and the lessons you’ve learned along the way.
Here are some examples of common essay topics:
- Overcoming a challenge: Did you face a difficult situation? How did you overcome it? What did you learn from that experience?
- A defining moment: What’s a moment that shaped who you are today? How did it change your perspective or your path?
- A passion or interest: What are you passionate about? Why is it important to you? How have you pursued that passion?
- A significant person in your life: Who has had a major impact on your life? How have they inspired or shaped you?
Remember, the goal is to write an essay that is both personal and impactful. It’s about showing the admissions committee who you are, not just what you’ve accomplished.
The Final Touch:
Once you’ve finished writing your essay, take a step back and read it with fresh eyes. Does it flow smoothly? Is it engaging? Does it truly reflect who you are?
If you’re still unsure, get feedback from someone you trust. Ask a teacher, a mentor, or a friend to read your essay and provide constructive criticism.
The Common App essay is a chance to show the admissions committee who you are beyond the numbers. It’s your opportunity to shine. So, put your heart into it, be yourself, and tell your story.
Need more help with your Common App essay? Connect with us at the JobLoving community for more resources and support!