Can I Write My Common App Essay as a Letter? (And Should I?)
Let’s face it, applying to college is a stressful, exhausting, and often confusing process. You’re juggling academics, extracurriculars, and maybe even a part-time job. And then there’s that dreaded Common App essay, the one that’s supposed to showcase your personality, your passions, and your potential.
So, can you write your Common App essay as a letter?
The short answer is: YES, YOU ABSOLUTELY CAN!
But should you?
Now, that’s a question that requires a little more thought.
The Appeal of the Letter Format:
The thought of writing your college essay as a letter might seem a bit out of the box, like a daring escape from the confines of traditional essay structures. And honestly, that’s not a bad thing. In a sea of essays that all follow the same predictable format, a letter can be a breath of fresh air. Imagine the admissions officers, weary from reading countless essays that sound like they were written by a committee, suddenly encountering a heartfelt, personalized letter. It’s like finding a diamond in a pile of coal, right?
Think about it:
- Personal Touch: Letters are naturally more personal and conversational than traditional essays. They allow you to directly address the recipient (the admissions committee) in a way that feels more intimate and engaging.
- Unique Perspective: A letter format can help you stand out from the crowd and make your essay more memorable. It’s a chance to showcase your creativity and individuality, which, let’s be honest, is what colleges are looking for!
- Flexibility: A letter format allows for greater flexibility in terms of structure and content. You don’t have to stick to the rigid structure of a traditional essay, giving you more freedom to explore your thoughts and experiences.
But There’s a Catch…
While the letter format can be a great way to add a unique touch to your essay, it’s not without its potential pitfalls.
Here are a few things to consider before you decide to go the letter route:
- Tone: It’s crucial to strike the right tone in a letter. It should be formal enough to be respectful but also personal enough to convey your unique voice. It’s a delicate balance!
- Clarity and Focus: Just because you’re writing a letter doesn’t mean you can go off on tangents or get lost in your own thoughts. You still need to stick to the prompt, keep your essay focused, and clearly communicate your message.
- Clichés: Be careful not to fall into the trap of using overused letter-writing clichés like “Dear Admissions Committee,” or “Sincerely,” You want your letter to feel authentic and genuine, not like a canned response.
- Length: Keep your letter within the word count limits. While the letter format might feel more expansive, it’s essential to stay within the allotted space.
Crafting a Winning Letter Essay:
If you’re still determined to write your Common App essay as a letter, here are some tips to make it shine:
- Choose the Right Prompt: Not all Common App prompts are created equal. Some are more naturally suited to a letter format than others. Look for prompts that allow you to tell a personal story or reflect on a specific experience.
- Address Your Recipient: Think about who you’re writing to. You’re essentially writing to a committee of people who will read hundreds (if not thousands) of essays. While you want to be personal, you also want to maintain a level of formality.
- Show, Don’t Tell: Just like with any essay, use vivid language and specific details to bring your story to life. Let the admissions committee get to know you through your words.
- Proofread Carefully: Make sure your letter is free of errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. You want to present a polished and professional piece of writing.
In Conclusion:
So, can you write your Common App essay as a letter? Absolutely! Can you make it stand out? Absolutely! But remember, the key to a successful college application essay is to tell your story in a way that’s both engaging and insightful. Don’t let the format become a distraction from the content.
If you’re still unsure about whether a letter format is right for you, consider talking to your guidance counselor or a trusted teacher or mentor. They can help you brainstorm ideas and give you feedback on your essay.
And if you’re still feeling lost in the college application labyrinth, don’t despair! The JobLoving community is here to help. Reach out to us, ask your questions, and let’s navigate this wild ride together.