Does BC Accept the Common App Essay? (And How to Make Yours Stand Out)
Let’s face it, applying to college is a stressful process. You’ve got to juggle academics, extracurriculars, and somehow find time to sleep (we’re not sure how, but good luck!). And then there are the essays. Ugh, essays.
If you’re aiming for Boston College, you might be wondering, “Does BC accept the Common App essay?” Well, my friend, the answer is a resounding YES. Boston College is a proud member of the Common App family, which means you can use the same application for a whole bunch of universities. But before you breathe a sigh of relief, let’s talk about how to make your essay truly stand out from the crowd.
Why Does BC Accept the Common App Essay?
The Common App is a blessing in disguise (well, a blessing in disguise that involves a lot of writing). It simplifies the application process, allowing you to submit your basic information and essays to multiple colleges with a single click. Boston College sees the value in this, as it allows them to focus on evaluating your application holistically, rather than getting bogged down in administrative details.
But here’s the thing: just because BC accepts the Common App doesn’t mean they’re not scrutinizing your essays. In fact, your essays are a crucial part of your application. They tell BC who you are, what you’re passionate about, and why you’re the perfect fit for their school.
So, How Do You Write an Essay That Makes BC Say, “Wow, We Have to Have This Kid!”?
Think of your Common App essay as your chance to show off your personality, intellect, and unique experiences. It’s not just about listing achievements; it’s about telling a compelling story that resonates with the admissions committee. Here are some tips to make your essay stand out:
- Choose a Topic That’s Truly You: Don’t write about something just because you think it’ll impress the admissions committee. Choose a topic that excites you, that you can write about with passion and authenticity.
- Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of saying you’re a hard worker, tell a story about a time you faced a challenge and persevered. Instead of saying you’re passionate about science, describe a fascinating experiment you conducted or a groundbreaking discovery you made.
- Be Specific and Detailed: Don’t just mention your extracurricular activities; describe the impact you had on your team or organization. Mention specific accomplishments and challenges you faced.
- Connect Your Story to BC: Why are you drawn to Boston College? What about their academic programs, values, or campus culture excites you? Make sure your essay demonstrates a genuine interest in BC, and why you believe it’s the right place for you.
- Proofread, Proofread, Proofread: You’ve put your heart and soul into this essay, so make sure it’s polished and error-free. Ask a trusted friend or teacher to review it for typos and grammatical mistakes.
Don’t Forget About the Supplemental Essays!
In addition to your Common App essay, Boston College has some supplemental essays. These essays allow you to dive deeper into specific aspects of your application, such as your academic interests or your reasons for choosing BC.
Treat supplemental essays with the same attention to detail as your Common App essay. They’re your chance to show BC that you’ve done your research and that you’re truly invested in becoming a part of their community.
The Bottom Line: Your essays are your voice!
Remember, the Common App essays are your opportunity to showcase your personality, intellect, and unique experiences. So, write with passion, be yourself, and don’t be afraid to let your voice shine through.
Good luck with your applications! And if you need any more tips or advice, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help you navigate the sometimes-confusing world of college applications.
Disclaimer: We’re not affiliated with Boston College or the Common App. This blog post is purely for informational purposes.
Have any other questions about applying to Boston College, or need help with your essays? Connect with our JobLoving community for support and guidance!