Should I Submit My 14 on the SAT Essay to the Common App? A Guide for the Perplexed
So, you’ve taken the SAT, and you’re staring at your essay score: a 14. You’re probably thinking, “Should I even bother submitting this thing? It’s not exactly a shining beacon of intellectual prowess.”
Let’s be real, a 14 isn’t exactly a party starter in the world of SAT essays. It’s like that awkward cousin who shows up to your family gathering with a questionable tie and a tendency to tell stories no one asked for. But before you decide to bury that score in the digital equivalent of the back of your closet, let’s talk about what you should actually do.
The SAT Essay: A Love-Hate Relationship
The SAT essay has been a source of both fascination and frustration for generations of students. It’s like that one friend who’s always trying to convince you to go to a “totally cool” party, but you end up bored out of your mind.
The good news is, for most colleges, the SAT essay is no longer required. It’s like your friend finally stopped bugging you about that party. You can go about your day, focusing on things that actually matter (like figuring out how to make your ramen noodles taste less like cardboard).
The Common App: Where Your College Dreams Live (and Die)
The Common App is like your online dating profile for colleges. It’s where you showcase your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and, if you’re feeling brave, your SAT scores.
But here’s the thing about the Common App: it’s not a one-size-fits-all platform. Each college sets its own requirements, which can be as confusing as navigating a maze blindfolded.
So, Should You Submit Your 14?
Let’s cut to the chase: the answer depends on the specific colleges you’re applying to.
- If a college specifically requires the SAT essay, you’re out of luck. You’ve got to submit it, whether you like it or not. This is like when your parents tell you to wear your favorite aunt’s questionable hand-knitted sweater to the family reunion – you might not love it, but you have to do it.
- If a college doesn’t require the SAT essay, you have the freedom to make the call. This is your chance to ditch the awkward cousin and focus on the parts of your application that genuinely shine.
- If a college doesn’t require the SAT essay but “looks at it” if you submit it, then you’ve got a choice to make. This is like having the option to wear that hand-knitted sweater or not. It’s your call, but be prepared to answer some awkward questions about your fashion choices.
The Real Question: Is Your 14 a Dealbreaker?
It’s tempting to assume your 14 will be a scarlet letter on your Common App, but don’t despair. Colleges often look at a variety of factors, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays. Your 14 might be a minor blip on the radar if your other application components are strong.
Think of it this way: your 14 is like a small typo in a novel. It’s not going to ruin the entire story, but it’s something you might want to address.
What to Do If You’re Unsure
If you’re still unsure about whether to submit your SAT essay score, here’s a simple strategy: reach out to the admissions office of each college you’re applying to. They can provide specific guidance on their essay policies and whether they even consider the score.
This is like asking your aunt for fashion advice – you might not get the answer you want, but at least you’ll have the information you need to make a well-informed decision.
The Bottom Line: It’s Your Choice
Ultimately, the decision of whether to submit your SAT essay score is yours. Don’t feel pressured to conform to any “rules.” Trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. After all, college admissions are like trying on clothes: you’re trying to find the right fit.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of college applications, we’re here to help. Join the JobLoving community and connect with fellow students, mentors, and experts who can provide guidance and support. We’re like your personal fashion consultant, helping you find the perfect outfit (or in this case, application) to make you stand out.