Does Common App Check for AI? (And Should You Be Scared?)
Okay, let’s talk about AI and college applications. It’s a hot topic, and you’re probably wondering: “Does Common App check for AI?” The short answer is: It’s complicated.
Here’s the deal: The Common App, that magical portal to a million college dreams, does consider the use of AI to be fraud. However, they don’t have a magical AI detector that scans every essay for traces of ChatGPT. They’re not exactly sitting around with a magnifying glass looking for sneaky AI-generated sentences.
It’s more like, if someone reports you for AI use, they’ll investigate. Think of it like a giant “Do Not Disturb” sign on your application. You’re free to use AI tools to help you write, but if someone goes “Knock knock,” you better be ready to answer.
Think of it like this: You’re building a house, and you can use a power drill to make the job faster. But if your neighbor calls the authorities because they think you’re using the power drill to break into their house, it’s going to be a lot of trouble for you.
So, while the Common App isn’t going to actively hunt down AI in your essays, it’s not a free pass to go wild with ChatGPT. And frankly, even if it was, I wouldn’t recommend it.
Why You Shouldn’t Use AI to Write Your College Essays (Even If You Could Get Away With It)
Here’s the thing: college essays are more than just a showcase of your writing skills. They’re a window into your soul, your personality, your dreams, your struggles, your triumphs. They’re a chance to tell your story in your own unique voice.
AI can’t capture that. It can churn out polished essays that sound almost human, but they lack the heart and soul that makes a college application truly stand out.
Think of it like this: You’re trying to impress someone you’re dating. Would you hand them a love letter that you found online and just changed the name? Of course not! You want to show them your genuine feelings, your unique perspective, your own words.
You’re not just trying to impress the admissions committee—you’re trying to convince them that you’re the right fit for their college. And that means showing them who you are, not who some algorithm thinks you should be.
But What If I Just Need a Little Help?
Okay, I get it. You’re stressed, you’re overwhelmed, and you’re staring at a blank page with a deadline looming. You might be tempted to use AI to get a jumpstart.
Here’s the thing: I’m not saying AI has no place in your college application process. It can be a great tool for brainstorming, generating ideas, organizing your thoughts, or even improving your grammar and style.
But use it responsibly. Think of it as a tutor, not a ghostwriter. Don’t let it write your entire essay. Use it to get you started, then put your own unique spin on it.
How to Write a College Essay That Shows Your True Self
Here are a few tips for writing a college essay that stands out from the crowd:
- Start with a story: Every great essay has a story at its heart. Think about a time you learned something important, faced a challenge, or made a difference. What did you learn from the experience? How did it shape you?
- Be authentic: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. The admissions committee can see through it. Be yourself, be honest, and be open.
- Show, don’t tell: Instead of simply stating your accomplishments or qualities, use concrete examples to illustrate them. Paint a picture with your words.
- Engage your reader: Make them feel something. Make them laugh, make them cry, make them think. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and share your true self.
- Edit, edit, edit: Once you’ve written a draft, take a break and come back to it with fresh eyes. Read it aloud to yourself. Ask a friend or family member to read it and give you feedback. Make sure your essay is clear, concise, and well-written.
What About Those AI Detection Tools?
You might be wondering about those AI detection tools that universities are starting to use.
They can be pretty good at sniffing out AI-generated text, but they’re not perfect. There are ways to fool them, but it’s not worth the risk.
Think of it like this: You’re trying to sneak past security at the airport. You could try to hide a weapon in your luggage, but the chances of getting caught are pretty high. It’s much safer to just declare it and be honest.
The Bottom Line
So, does the Common App check for AI? Maybe. But even if they don’t, you should be writing your essays with authenticity and integrity.
Don’t let the fear of AI detection stop you from telling your story. Use your own voice, be yourself, and let your personality shine through.
Remember, the admissions committee is looking for students who are passionate, engaged, and ready to make a difference. And no AI tool can capture that.
Need More Help? Join the JobLoving Community!
If you’re still feeling lost or need guidance with your college application process, don’t hesitate to reach out! The JobLoving community is a great resource for students, with tons of information, advice, and support. We’re here to help you navigate the college application journey and achieve your dreams. Connect with us today!