<p>This is super last minute, but I'm applying to Scripps tomorrow and am wondering if a current student or applicant who has already submitted would be willing to advise me on my main, Common App. essay? It's disorganized and lacks focus and I'm freaking out.</p>
<p>Hi September,</p>
<p>I won’t be able to look at your essay for you, but my advise is as follows:</p>
<p>Take a look at the different paragraphs/subjects of your essay and if one stands out as “not like the others” then consider nixing it.</p>
<p>What kind of overall theme emerges when you consider your paragraphs/subjects together? This may be your thesis, or more creatively “the point” to your narrative. You can create focus by drawing attention to this theme up front and weaving it through the rest of your essay to your conclusion. Sometimes there are broad ideas (“respect” “growth” “faith”) that can unify even the most disparate events or experiences.</p>
<p>Finally, have a friend or family member whose writing/advice you trust take a look at it. Sometimes we get too close to our own writing to see its merits and mistakes, so it can be good to get objective feedback. Plus, they’ll be able to give you feedback on the most important function of your essay, whether you get across your personality.</p>