The Common App Essay: A Guide to Avoiding Indentation and Other Common Pitfalls
So, you’re staring at the blank Common App essay prompt, feeling like you’re about to climb Mount Everest without a Sherpa. Don’t worry, my friend, you’re not alone. This essay is the bane of many a high school senior’s existence, so let’s break it down, step by step, and turn your essay into a masterpiece (or at least something that won’t make your college counselor want to pull their hair out).
The Great Indentation Debate: Or, How to Make Your Essay Look Like a Poem
First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room (or, should I say, the invisible space between your paragraphs): indentation. You might be tempted to hit that “tab” key, but hold your horses! The Common App platform is as strict about indentation as a librarian is about overdue books. It’s a no-go, my friend.
Instead, embrace the minimalist aesthetic and use those empty lines between paragraphs to signify a new thought or idea. Think of it as a blank canvas: you can use it to your advantage to create visual breaks and guide the reader through your story. It’s like a poem, but with more paragraphs and less existential angst.
Beyond Indentation: Tips for a Stellar College Application Essay
Now that we’ve tackled the indentation monster, let’s move on to the real meat and potatoes of this essay: making it stand out. Here’s the deal: everyone’s got a story, but not everyone can tell it in a way that captures the attention of an admissions officer.
Imagine you’re a college admissions officer, wading through a sea of essays that all sound like they were written by the same robot (only with different names attached). How do you make yours stand out? It’s not about being the most unique, it’s about being authentic, engaging, and most importantly, answering the prompt.
Common App Essay Tips: A Deep Dive
Let’s dive into some specific tips that’ll help you write an essay that’ll make a college admissions officer say, “Wow, that kid’s got guts (and a good vocabulary).”
- Write About Something You Actually Care About: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. If you’re passionate about baking sourdough bread, write about that. If you’ve spent years trying to perfect your “best friend” impression, write about that. Authenticity shines through, and it’s much easier to write about something you genuinely connect with.
- Reflect, Don’t Just Recount: It’s not enough to simply tell a story. You need to reflect on its meaning and connect it to your personal growth. What did you learn? How did this experience shape you? Show the admissions committee the “why” behind the “what.”
- Humor is a Double-Edged Sword: While a sprinkle of humor can be a good thing, remember that you’re trying to get into college, not win a stand-up comedy competition. If your humor is forced or doesn’t land, it can actually backfire.
- Start Early and Write Multiple Drafts: This essay isn’t a last-minute project. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, edit, and rewrite. The more drafts you go through, the better your essay will become. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
- No Repeats, No Lies: Don’t repeat information from your application or other essays. And for the love of all things academic, don’t lie. Colleges have amazing resources for checking facts, and they’re not afraid to use them.
- Answer the Prompt! This seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many applicants miss the mark. Read the prompt carefully and make sure your essay directly addresses the question being asked.
- Get Feedback From Someone You Trust: A fresh pair of eyes can catch things you might have missed. Have a parent, teacher, mentor, or friend read your essay and give you honest feedback.
- Test Your College Knowledge: Before you hit “submit,” make sure you’ve actually read the college’s website and understand their values and mission. This might seem like a small detail, but it shows that you’re genuinely interested in attending their school.
The Common App Essay: A Final Word
The Common App essay is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. It’s a chance to tell your story in your own unique voice. So, be yourself, be authentic, and most importantly, be honest.
Remember, this essay is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s not the be-all and end-all of your college application. But by taking the time to craft a well-written and engaging essay, you’ll be giving yourself a significant advantage in the college admissions race.
Need Additional Help?
If you’re still struggling with your Common App essay, don’t worry! We’ve got your back. Connect with us at the JobLoving community for more resources and guidance. We’re here to help you navigate the confusing world of college applications and find the perfect school for you.
Now go forth and conquer that essay! The world is waiting for your story.