<p>I go to an ultra-orthodox Jewish school, where we have no guidance counselor and I have no support in applying to regular colleges (because they're not Jewish...). I have no idea what is considered an excellent essay, but because my application is lacking in other areas, my essays are the only thing that may get me in somewhere decent. Can anyone review some of my essays and give me some advice on whether they are good enough to tip the scale in my favor? Thank you.</p>
<p>I hope your essay is not about religion (at least in a way that either tries to argue for or against it) – not that I don’t think it’s an interesting topic, it’s just not something you want to risk in a CommonApp essay. What’s considered an excellent essay is subjective, but oftentimes people can differentiate between a great essay and one that is lacking in some major respect. Feel free to pm me, I’ll let you know what I think, but as for any criticism take it with a grain of salt, and be the final judge.</p>
<p>I’m happy to help but I’d like to start with your personal statement if that’s ok</p>