My Life in 650 Words: How I Tackled the Common App Essay
It’s the afternoon of August 1st, 2013. I’m staring at six prompts, one of which will soon play a key role in my college admissions process. Which one do I choose? Is there a part of my life that is so integral to my identity that I must share it with others? I suppose so, but then again, maybe I’m overestimating how interesting of a person I am. A place where I am perfectly content…does my bed count? Hm; I don’t consider myself an adult yet, so I probably wouldn’t be able to write seriously about an event that marked my transition from child into adult.
The Common App Essay: A Journey of Self-Discovery
The Common Application, or Common App for short, is basically the universal application form for over 900 colleges, including every Ivy League school and those prestigious institutions like Stanford, Caltech, and the University of Chicago. It’s basically the “one-stop shop” for all your college application information. You just fill it out once, and bam! You’re good to go for every school that uses it.
But here’s the kicker: the Common App Essay. You know, that personal statement (PS) everyone talks about. It’s the one piece of writing that every college admissions officer will read and base their evaluation, in part, on. And let me tell you, it’s a beast.
So, back to my August 1st dilemma. I’m facing down these prompts, wondering which one will be my literary ticket to a top-tier university.
Prompt 1: Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
Prompt 2: The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Prompt 3: Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your questioning or challenge? What was its outcome?
Prompt 4: Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or experience there, and why is it meaningful to you?
Prompt 5: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Prompt 6: Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
The Struggle is Real: Facing the Blank Page
I’m staring at these six prompts, realizing that picking the right one is just the first step. The next hurdle? Actually writing the darn thing.
Let me tell you, the Common App essay can be a real game changer when it comes to your application. It’s the chance to showcase your personality, your passions, and what makes you unique.
Time is of the Essence: Navigating the Common App Essay Timeline
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: time. You’re probably thinking, “Can I even write this in a week?” The answer is: it’s doable, but it’s NOT advisable.
Here’s the lowdown: You should plan on spending at least 1-3 weeks brainstorming and writing the first draft of your Common App essay, and at least 2-4 weeks revising across multiple drafts. I know, it sounds like a lot. But trust me, this is not the time to cut corners. Your Common App essay needs to be polished like a diamond, not rushed like a microwave meal.
And don’t forget to factor in those all-important breaks. Give yourself some time to step away from the computer, clear your head, and come back to your essay with fresh eyes. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it.
The Common App Essay Word Count: A Balancing Act
Now, let’s talk about the magic number: the Common App essay word count. 650 words. It’s like the college admissions committee is saying, “We’ll give you 650 words to tell us your story, but no more.”
So, how do you make the most of those precious words?
Here are a few tips:
- Keep your rough drafts longer than 650 words. This will give you plenty of material to work with, and you can always trim it down later.
- Aim for 500-600 words in your final draft. This will give your essay a good flow without feeling too short or too long.
- Make every word count. Avoid unnecessary filler words and phrases. Get to the point and make your writing as concise as possible.
Prompt 5: The Personal Growth Prompt
Now, let’s dive into a specific Common App prompt: Prompt 5. This one asks you to discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
The Key to Answering Prompt 5: Finding Your Spark
The key to answering this prompt is clearly defining what it is that sparked your growth, and then describing this spark in detail, going into the specifics of how it changed you.
Telling Your Story: The Art of Storytelling
Your Common App essay is your chance to tell your story in your own voice. Show the admissions committee who you are, what you’re passionate about, and what you’ve learned along the way. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and share your experiences, both the good and the bad.
The Power of Revision: Polishing Your Essay
Once you’ve written a draft of your essay, it’s time to put on your editor hat. Read your essay aloud and listen for any awkward phrasing or sentences that don’t flow smoothly. Get feedback from trusted friends, family members, or teachers. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to make changes. Your Common App essay is a work in progress, and it’s okay to rewrite and revise until you’re happy with it.
Ready to Share Your Story?
The Common App essay is a big deal. It’s your chance to stand out from the crowd and show colleges why you’re the right fit for their institution. But it’s not just about getting into college. It’s about reflecting on your journey, discovering who you are, and sharing your story with the world.
And remember: if you need any help with your Common App essay, or you just want to chat about the college application process, feel free to reach out to us at JobLoving. We’re here to help you every step of the way.