Demonstrating intellectual passion v.s. pretentiousness

Parents Forum
1

<p>I have this essay which I am sending to two top colleges (HYPC type) and it is one of several essays (because of this special program I'm in). This essay however is focused on my intellectual/academic ambitions in college. It is not college specific, but it does describe my intended majors and why I'm interested in it. </p>

<p>However I am afraid it might be a bit inappropriate, as if I am trying to hard to impress.. (well I'd say I'm not, I would speak the same way when I describe it). </p>

<p>Anyways, I was wondering if any parents would be willing to read it. I am sending it off monday or tuesday so please let me know quick! :)</p>

2

<p>Not a parent, but I would like to read it... I already applied, and aren't those schools' apps due Jan 1?</p>

3

<p>There is no answer to questions like this. HS students think and write differently than adults (strange but true... :) ). Do what you think is right, and don't be afraid to let your personality come through. Keep in mind, too, that essays like this will be read in the light of recommendations and the rest of your package. So it may not be a good time to reinvent yourself.</p>

4

<p>Celita: The deadlines have passed for submitting apps to most colleges, including the "top colleges" you mention in your OP. Are you contemplating sending in essays to supplement or replace the ones you submitted with your original apps? If so, I would reconsider that plan: I don't think sending in new/replacement essays will help your application. If you've earned new honors, etc., that is something to report to colleges, either yourself or through your GC's mid-year report. But I would not submit new essays.</p>

5

<p>I take you at your word, and looking at your posting history see some special programming going on.</p>

<p>If you'd like to send it by PM, go ahead and I'll give you my "gut" reaction as to whether it sounds pretentious or true-to-voice.</p>

<p>PS, I am not interested in the Superbowl, so don't worry. You're not interrupting anything here :)</p>

6

<p>wjb, in most cases you wouldn't send new essays, but I applied through this program, and when I applied I only reused essays from my program application, so when I called they said I can send new essays.</p>

7

<p>I'll read the essays if you like. Just PM it to me. No Superbowl in this house either.</p>

8

<p>Thanks guys, for giving it a read. Anyone else willing to?</p>

9

<p>PM me and I will give it a try. I'm a good editor, and my daughter didn't apply to HYP type schools, so you aren't competing with her.</p>