The Great Ampersand Debate: Can You Use It in Your Common App?
Let’s be honest, the Common App is a bit like a high school reunion – you’re trying to impress everyone, but you also want to avoid making a complete fool of yourself. And, just like at a high school reunion, there are always those social rules you need to follow. The question of whether or not you can use an ampersand (&) in your Common App essay is one of those rules.
The short answer? No, you absolutely shouldn’t use an ampersand in your Common App essay. It’s considered informal, and colleges are looking for polished, professional writing.
Now, before you start throwing metaphorical tomatoes at me, let’s dive into the reasons why the Common App might be a bit snooty about ampersands.
The Ampersand: A Symbol of History and Hipsterdom
The ampersand (&), that little squiggly thing that looks like a fancy “7” with a tail, has a surprisingly interesting history. It’s a shortened version of the Latin word “et” (meaning “and”). Back in the day, it was used to save space in printing, a practice that’s come back in vogue with the rise of the hipster aesthetic.
You might see ampersands used in fancy coffee shops, vintage clothing stores, and maybe even your favorite indie band’s logo. But when it comes to formal writing, the ampersand is generally considered a no-no.
Why Colleges Take Ampersands Seriously
Think of the Common App as a fancy restaurant. You wouldn’t show up in a tank top and flip-flops, would you? The Common App is essentially a formal introduction to your potential future alma mater. You want to make a good impression, and that means following the rules of proper writing.
Colleges are looking for students who can communicate effectively and professionally. Using an ampersand in your essay might make you seem like you’re trying to be clever or edgy, but it can also make you appear careless or unprofessional, which is definitely not the vibe you want to project.
So, What About Those Character Limits?
Okay, okay, I get it. Those pesky character limits on the Common App can be a real pain. It’s tempting to try and squeeze every last word in there, and an ampersand might seem like a clever way to save some precious characters. However, the Common App has a few unspoken rules about character limits:
- Don’t be a word-counter: Focus on writing a strong, clear, and concise essay. Don’t sacrifice quality for quantity. If you need to trim down your essay, consider using more precise language, removing unnecessary details, or rephrasing sentences for better flow.
- Don’t be a punctuation-counter: Character limits are designed to help you stay on track, not to force you into using shortcuts. If you’re worried about hitting the maximum character count, you can always contact the Common App directly for guidance.
The Bottom Line
While the Common App might seem a little strict, the truth is that they’re just looking for students who are able to communicate effectively and professionally. Using an ampersand in your essay can make you seem informal or careless, which is not what you want to project in a college application.
So, take that extra second to write out the word “and,” and you’ll be one step closer to securing your spot at your dream school.
Need More Help?
If you’re still unsure about the Common App, or if you want to learn more about other aspects of college applications, reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re a group of passionate educators and experts who are here to help you navigate the world of college admissions. Let’s help you write an application that will impress even the most discerning college admissions committee!