<p>Hi, I am currently a sophomore and I plan on applying to numerous summer camps (which will include the likes of Ross, MathCamp, PROMYS, HSHSP, COSMOS, etc.) for 2013. However, I am concerned about the application essays; this will be the first time ever I will write application essays for anything, and I am thus greatly inexperienced in this matter. </p>
<p>Should essays for such applications be written like college essays, in which one should "show rather than tell"? They shouldn't be a direct straightforward answer to the prompt, right? Basically, how should I go about writing these essays? </p>
<p>Also, are there any resources for a beginner such as myself? Books, websites, sample, essays, etc.?</p>
<p>Thanks for helping!</p>
<p>What are the essay prompts? </p>
<p>When writing your essay(s), I would recommend you to SHOW instead of tell. I would also suggest that you focus on a specific experience and elaborate. The topic doesn’t need to be unique for the essay to be successful. As long as you’re passionate, then you know you’re on the right track.</p>
<p>The following are the general variations of the essay prompts asked by the camps I will probably apply to (Ross, PROMYS, HCSSiM, Canada/USA MathCamp, SSP, COSMOS, etc.*):</p>
<ol>
<li><p>What math/science activities do you enjoy or participate in?</p></li>
<li><p>What are your non-academic/non-mathematical activities or interests?</p></li>
<li><p>Have you participated in a similar program previously? Describe the experience.</p></li>
<li><p>Why do you believe you will enjoy this program? What do you hope to gain out of it?</p></li>
<li><p>Describe a life challenge.</p></li>
<li><p>Describe an achievement you are especially proud of.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>To me, questions 1-4 seem to ask for a more or less straightforward answer, while 5-6 seem to demand a narrative response. Am I correct in this line of thinking? Also, would it still be “bad” if I were to write a straightforward response (ie. “My non-mathematical activities are…”) while providing an explanation as to why I do those activities (which is where I hope my passion will shine through)?</p>
<ul>
<li>The listed essay prompts were taken out of previous years’ applications for these programs.</li>
</ul>
<p>Your logic is correct.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t directly say, “my non-mathematical activities are…” because it sounds a bit bland. You should be creative when writing these essays; start with a hook.</p>
<p>I would encourage you to find the time to sit in a quiet area and ask yourself these questions. Then write down whatever comes to mind. After you have done that, then you can undergo the revision process.</p>
<p>Feel free to ask me anymore questions.</p>
<p>Ok, thank you for your help!</p>
<p>Are there any books on writing essays? I have heard about Harry Bauld, but would you recommend any others? Or possibly any other resources if not books?</p>
<p>“50 Successful Harvard Application Essays, Second Edition: What Worked for Them Can Help You Get into the College of Your Choice” by Staff of the Harvard Crimson is a great resource.</p>