<p>Almost every single essay I've taken a look at or edited here has been significantly under-par, especially for the colleges they are for. It confuses me how such an easy part of the application is being butchered by so many of you (that includes the ones with amazing credentials). I don't mean to be pretentious or harsh, I just want to help (the essay can easily make your application better than many people with amazing resumes or make your application turn into an easy rejection). Maybe the reason so many are weak are because this thread attracts those in need of help. But I think this thread also attracts people that are just paranoid about the process and care about their applications. </p>
<p>Here are my tips (maybe you've heard them elsewhere, but put them to use!):</p>
<p>Don't force creativity or humor. I'm sure you've all seen that awesome essay that pulls off this difficult task, but more likely than not, you are not as creative or deft of a writer. Distinguishing yourself is not a hard task that means you must write your essay as if you were an alien viewing yourself from outer space. Furthermore, if you aren't creative in the first place, why show the admissions officers something that isn't you? It will probably just come off as fake or contrived. </p>
<p>Don't try to be "epic." So many of your essays just feel fake when you try to make a science bowl competition sound like the deciding factor on whether human life should continue to exist. I'm not saying to refrain from spicing up a story, but don't use adjectives that make the whole situation sound ridiculous. Don't try to imitate a descriptive writer if you aren't skilled enough to pull it off. Be real! </p>
<p>Don't write in vague, broad terms. "The trip to Nairobi made me understand that people really are poor. Now I know to be as nice as them and be generous." Be specific! Also remember to answer the question. If a specific event influenced you, don't spend the whole essay describing the event in monotonous detail without describing how or why it has changed you. </p>
<p>Make clear sense to the reader. As much as your essay might make sense to you, it is not always as clear to the reader. Keep to one coherent theme or message. Don't sprawl from topic to topic or drastically shift views and contradict yourself at the end of your essay. Also don't use commas, semicolons, and awkward SAT words if they don't make sense in the context or you don't know how to use them. </p>
<p>Remember the image your essay sends off. Almost any essay topic can be pulled off, but unless you really have a passion for the subject, it might just make you seem dumb. Remember to avoid cliches and sappy corniness. Also write about a meaningful topic. Don't pick an odd topic just for the sake of it. The college admissions officers do not want your essay to be like the awesome one you read, they want it to be awesome in your own, different way. </p>
<p>Be concise. Revise your essay a lot. There are always places that can be made shorter.</p>
<p>GL~!</p>