Essay Brainstorming/Ideas/Editing

<p>So I've been thinking about my essays for quite awhile. I've written a first draft of several essay topics. However, I just don't think they are that good. I just don't know how to write personally/honestly. It's hard for me to express my thoughts/ideas/experiences through a 500 word essay, because I don't know how to make it flow, connect the ideas, etc.</p>

<p>Does anyone have any advice for how I should approach my essays? How can I know if they will attract the readers' attention? How do I know whether or not they represent me well? Thanks!</p>

<p>People/books always say "make sure your essays represent YOU. write passionatelyon your interests, show don't tell, etc." </p>

<p>But my question is...how? Is it just a matter of rhetorical devices, and essay writing skills? I have a lot of experiences/ideas in mind, I just don't know how to write down my own thoughts on paper...</p>