<p>Like title says, I'm still struggling with personal statement. I need to know if my essay has enough substance, do I need to expand on ideas. Give essay a grade on a scale from a to f, including + and -. Does it stand out, is it spectacular or horrendous. Also, it is 626 words, is that bad for common app? I am willing to cut about 75 more words so I am in 500 range. Anyone willing to help would be great. But please, only experienced people who don't steal ideas or essays(sorry, I am paranoid).</p>
<p>jkjkjkj: my own common app essay was 2,700 words. Notice how they specify a minimum, but no maximum amount of words on the personal statement. The upper word limit is only for short answers or supplemental essays. </p>
<p>I was admitted ED to Rice U. and I consider myself a pretty good writer. So, though not a parent, I wouldn't mind giving you feedback on your essay.</p>
<p>I suggest you email it to an English teacher as well; some of them have had years of experience and know just what your essay might be lacking.</p>
<p>Sure, I'll read it. I am the mother of two--a high school senior who just got accepted at Cornell and a high school junior who has set her sights on Brown. I am also a high school French teacher with a Master's degree in Linguistics. So, I know a little about writing well. Be happy to look over your essay. With regard to the word limit, however, I am not sure how closely you need to stick to the 500-word limit. I'll ask my son who used the common app this year what he thinks.</p>