<p>So I wrote a very creative essay that didn't have much structure. It didn't follow the typical essay guidelines, but my voice really shone through and it was pretty lyrical. I felt excited reading it. Then when someone read it over, they told me that I really shouldn't do that. I should be more straightforward and structured. So now I have two essays: one that's creative with metaphors, etc. and another one that is pretty straightforward and cliche. WHAT DO I DO?!?! CREATIVE OR STRAIGHTFORWARD. Wouldn't colleges be more inclined to being excited?</p>
<p>I wouldn’t go with the cliched route. The most important thing is that your voice and personality shines through the essay. It’s better to do something that stands out than something that everyone else is doing.</p>
<p>I suggest you google “best college essays” and read some of the examples. Several colleges have some of their favorites posted, and I think it really helps to get an idea of what they are really looking for (or at least wishing for). I have read some amazing creative essays, but there should still be some structure to them, in that they shouldn’t just be wandering all over the place!</p>
<p>“Creative” doesn’t mean the same thing as “flowery” or “includes metaphors.” Your writing should always be creative.
If your writing style is straightforward and direct, that’s fine, but cliches/broad generalizations aren’t okay.</p>