So I am currently writing my RICE Supplementals as I will be applying Early Decision to the school and I am EXTREMELY confused. I have been researching online and most of the example essays are all anecdotal (“show, not tell”). However, this year has two prompts that are 150 words max plus another --the residential college one-- which is 500 words, compared to the much longer example essays that I have read. It’s possible to write anecdotal responses for prompt 3, but how will I do it for the others.
Can I just paint a picture in a sentence or two and then delve straight in? I am not that great of a story writer, but my sophisticated, lab report style writing is impressive, so I know that I can somewhat charm the admissions officers (hopefully), but I don’t know if I am answering the prompts correctly…
There is no “right” way to do a college application essay.
Try showing over telling like you suggested. If it feels right then keep it. If you’re a more “telling” writer and can’t “show” effective in 150 words, don’t force yourself. It will come across in the writing.
Each applicant does things differently and no two are identical. As you’ve pointed out, you have the personal perspective essay to show. If you feel that telling is more effective then, by all means, tell. Previously they gave you 250 words in the shorter essays, but obviously they’ve changed it this year.
Really, do what feels right. There’s a reason college adcoms scream “be yourself” 24/7.
Thank you! Also, for the “what aspects of the Rice undergraduate experience excite you and led you to apply” essay, how do you know if you are being too generic?
