Personal Statement/Essay Tips

Most students dread writing their essay, but this can be the best part of the application process! Every other part of the college application process describes what you have achieved but does not describe who you are.  In your essay, you have an opportunity to express your opinions, showcase your personality, and convey how your experiences have shaped you to become the person you are today. 

When choosing your essay topic, make sure the topic will allow you to present some unique information about yourself that is not already contained in another part of your application.  Admissions officers are looking for the essay to convey insight, intellect, and self-awareness.  Essays should reveal your voice and allow the reader to better understand what makes you uniquely you, and in a way that is interesting and engaging. If you have a sense of humor and are frequently making jokes, then add some humor to your essay.  If you are a serious person or formal, then your writing should reflect that part of your personality.  Write the essay as if you were telling a story to a friend, and your unique voice will certainly be conveyed.

When you finish your essay, share it with one or two people to get their comments and input.  If those individuals can say, "I hear you in this essay or this sounds just like you!!" you have written a successful college essay.  

Here are some additional articles/websites to help guide you when choosing an essay topic and writing your essay:

https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/how-to-write-a-college-essay

https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/college-essay

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/02/education/learning/writing-college-application-essay.html