The Common App Essay: It’s Not Just a Personal Statement, It’s a Journey of Self-Discovery (and a Whole Lot of Stress)
So, you’re applying to college, and amidst the mountain of applications, transcripts, and recommendation letters, you stumble upon this mysterious beast: the Common App essay. You’ve heard whispers of its legendary power, its ability to make or break your chances of acceptance. You’ve even seen those ominous words: “Personal Statement.”
And you’re thinking, “Wait, isn’t that just an essay? Why is it called a ‘personal statement’?”
Well, my friend, welcome to the confusing world of college admissions. Let’s break down this whole personal statement/Common App essay thing, because honestly, it’s more complicated than a Kardashian Christmas card.
The Common App Essay: Your One-Size-Fits-All (But Not Really) Personal Statement
Imagine you’re trying on clothes at a store. You see a sign that says “One Size Fits All”. You try it on, and… well, it’s not the most flattering look. The Common App essay is kinda like that. It’s designed to be a universal form of self-expression for students applying to colleges that use the Common App. It’s a single essay, usually around 650 words, that you submit to all the colleges on your Common App list.
But here’s the catch: each college can have its own set of supplemental essays that you need to write. So, while the Common App essay might be your “one-size-fits-all” personal statement, it’s not the end of the journey. You still have to tailor your writing for each specific college.
The Personal Statement: A More Flexible (and Often Shorter) Option
The term “personal statement” is a bit more flexible. It can refer to:
- The Common App essay itself: Yep, the 650-word behemoth is often considered the personal statement for Common App schools.
- Shorter essays: Some colleges might ask for a shorter “personal statement,” maybe 250-500 words, focusing on a specific topic. This could be anything from your academic goals to your extracurricular activities. It’s like a mini-essay on a specific theme.
- Essays for other applications: Don’t think personal statements are just for college applications. You might encounter them in scholarship applications, job applications, or even graduate school applications.
So, What’s the Difference?
Think of it this way:
- Common App essay: It’s the big, general statement about who you are, your interests, and your aspirations. It’s your chance to make a first impression on every college you apply to.
- Personal statement: It’s a more focused essay, usually shorter, designed to address specific prompts or requirements. It’s like a close-up shot of a particular aspect of your life or experience.
The Importance of the Common App Essay (and Why It Shouldn’t Be a Source of Panic)
Yes, the Common App essay is a big deal. Colleges use it to get to know you beyond your grades and test scores. They want to see who you are as a person, what you value, and how you think. It’s your chance to showcase your personality, your passions, and your potential.
But here’s the thing: the Common App essay doesn’t have to be this insurmountable mountain. It’s just an essay, and you’re capable of writing a good one!
Here’s the key:don’t try to be someone you’re not . Be genuine, be yourself, and let your unique voice shine through. Write about something that matters to you, something that makes your heart sing.
Think of It as a Conversation, Not a Job Interview
Forget about trying to impress the admissions committee with your vocabulary or your knowledge of obscure historical events. The Common App essay isn’t a test. It’s a chance for you to have a conversation with your potential future college.
Imagine you’re sitting down with the admissions dean for coffee. What would you talk about? What would you share about yourself? That’s the spirit you should bring to your essay.
Pro-Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Get Personal
The Common App essay is your opportunity to tell your story. Don’t be afraid to get personal. Talk about your triumphs, your struggles, your fears, your hopes. Share your experiences, your reflections, your insights. This is your chance to make a real connection with the people who will decide your fate.
The Penn State Personal Statement: A Case Study in Supplemental Essays
Let’s take a look at Penn State, a university that uses the Common App but also requires a supplemental essay.
Penn State’s optional essay is essentially a personal statement, similar to the Common App essay. But here’s the difference: Penn State’s prompt is specific. It asks you to share about a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.
This is where the real tailoring comes in. You can still use the same basic information from your Common App essay, but you need to focus it on Penn State’s prompt. You need to show how your experience of overcoming a challenge aligns with Penn State’s values and mission.
The Common App Essay and Personal Statements: A Tale of Two Cities
Okay, so maybe they’re not exactly “two cities,” but they are two different ways of telling your story.
The Common App essay is your broader platform, your chance to introduce yourself to a wide audience. The personal statement, whether it’s for Common App schools, other universities, or scholarships, is your opportunity to focus on specific aspects of your life and experiences.
The Common App essay is the foundation of your application. It’s the first impression you make, and it sets the stage for the rest of your application materials. But don’t forget about those supplemental essays, those personal statements that might be hiding in the shadows.
Think of them as opportunities to add depth, nuance, and specificity to your application.
Remember: You Are the Author of Your Story
The Common App essay and the various personal statements are more than just essays. They are your chance to tell your story, your way. It’s your opportunity to showcase your individuality, your passion, and your potential.
So, go forth and write! Don’t be afraid to get personal. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to make a connection with the people who are reading your words.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of Common App essays and personal statements, don’t worry. We at JobLoving are here to help. We can provide guidance, support, and resources to help you write essays that shine.
We’re just a click away!