Should You Put Your Name in Your Common App Essay? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated!)
You’re knee-deep in the college application process, staring at your Common App essay, and a thought pops into your head: “Should I put my name in this thing?” It’s a valid question, and honestly, the answer is a bit like trying to decipher the ancient Mayan calendar. It’s all a bit cryptic, and no one seems to have a definitive answer.
Let’s break it down, shall we?
The Thing About Names
The Common App, in its infinite wisdom, doesn’t explicitly say “Thou shalt not put your name in thy essay.” But it also drops hints like a magician leaving breadcrumbs for a bewildered audience.
For instance, they suggest including a header with your last name and page number for each page. This, my friend, is a subtle suggestion that your name should be on the header, not the body of your essay.
The “You Can Mention Names” Conundrum
You’re probably thinking, “Okay, so no full name, but can I at least use my first name? I’m writing about a collaborative project, and it feels weird to say ‘my friend’ or ‘my teammate’ throughout the essay.”
And here’s the good news: Using first names in essays is generally okay. It’s not like you’re revealing state secrets. The admission folks are more interested in your story than your name’s ability to unlock a hidden vault of information.
The “It Depends” Tango
Remember how I said this was like deciphering the ancient Mayan calendar? Well, it gets even more complicated.
Here’s the deal: It depends.
- The Essay Prompt: If the essay prompt asks for a personal story, mentioning your name might be perfectly fine. However, if it’s a more abstract or theoretical essay, it’s best to avoid putting your name in it. Imagine writing an essay about the impact of climate change and dropping your name in the middle of it. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. It just doesn’t work.
- The Context: Think about the context of your essay. Is it a story about your personal growth, or are you discussing a complex topic like the ethics of AI? If it’s a personal story, mentioning your name could add a layer of authenticity and make your essay more relatable. But if it’s a more academic essay, avoid the temptation to add your name. It might come across as self-absorbed, and no one wants to be accused of that!
The “Don’t Overthink It” Mantra
Listen, I get it. The college application process is stressful enough without worrying about whether or not you should include your name in your essay.
So, here’s my advice:
- Focus on your story: Make sure your essay is clear, concise, and engaging. Let your words do the talking.
- Don’t overthink it: If you’re unsure about mentioning your name, err on the side of caution and leave it out. It’s not the end of the world.
- Get feedback: Ask a trusted teacher, counselor, or friend to review your essay and give you feedback. They can help you determine if mentioning your name makes sense.
The “You’re Not Alone” Moment
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Countless students before you have faced this dilemma. And, you know what? They survived. So will you!
The “We’re Here to Help” Offer
If you’re still feeling lost in the maze of college application essay etiquette, don’t worry! We’re here to help. Join the JobLoving community, and you’ll find a wealth of resources, advice, and support from people who have been through the trenches. We’ll help you navigate the tricky waters of college applications and, hopefully, land your dream school.
So, breathe, relax, and remember: Your essay is a reflection of your unique voice and journey. Don’t let the fear of naming yourself overshadow the power of your story.