<p>Okay...first question:
In the space where they provide more space to elaborate on your extracurriculars...it says only elaborate on one, but I explained more than one because I felt like I needed to. It was hard to fit it all in so it jumps around a little bit, but it doesnt matter because it's not supposed to be an essay, right? Is it okay?
Second Question:
Is it okay to use my UC app essay for my Common app essay? It's 630 words...it doesnt really say anything about how long it needs to be except for "6,000 characters"...how many words on average is that? I was also confused by the directions. Do you have any advice and do you think my essay will be ok?
Third Question:
My counselor is writing my letter of reccomendation, she isn't doing it online though. She hasn't given it to me yet, or sent it as far as I know...is it okay though to send my application in online? Or do I have to wait for her? Or do I have to do it by mail because the reccomendation is written? Is it okay for them to be sent seperate?</p>
<p>Thanks everyone...if you have any tips for the common app please share! Thanks again...</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Depends... if they only asked you to BRIEFLY elaborate on one, they likely want a short answer and not an essay (unless it specifically says elaborate on one in essay form). It seems a bit risky to jump around, unless it's a related activity (such as... say, playing the clarinet in the marching band and then playing it in a small ensemble).</p></li>
<li><p>Go into Word, or whatever word processor you have. There WILL be a tools thingy that will tell you how many characters it is. If you can't find it... well, ask a friend or your parents. Most word processors will count the number of characters.</p></li>
<li><p>I'm pretty sure they can be sent seperately. Colleges are unusually good at putting pieces together. </p></li>
</ol>
<p>For the common app essay... DON'T BE BORING. Don't write about how your greatest accomplishment was winning a game or learning to play tennis or something. The common app essay topics definitly lead some students to write essays like "My greatest accomplishment is.... I learned from it because... It made me a better person because...". Write something different.</p>
<p>I'd also highly recommend reading "Essays that worked- 50 essays from successful applications to the nation's top colleges" edited by Boykin Curray and Brian Kasbar.</p>
<p>Hope that helps. ^_^</p>