<p>On the supplement, it says to be "brief". I know that this means about a page and a half, or 500 words, or whatever, but when I wrote mine I found I had so much to incorporate that my "Why Swarthmore" currently tips the scales at 1,011 words. I want to make it at the very most 700.</p>
<p>What can I cut out without taking away the essential meaning of the piece? Beyond that, can I change anything to make it stronger and more appealing?</p>
<p>As it's so long, I'd prefer it if you'd PM me with your email address. Then I can send it to you as an attachment.</p>
<p>Darn--you're right. Looks like I'll have to re-write the whole thing (or I could totally ignore the 2000 character guideline. My essay uploads just fine).</p>
<p>Really, how can they expect me to tell them, specifically, why I want to attend Swarthmore in what amounts to one, double-spaced page? How can they really know anything about me or my genuine interest from such a short blurb?</p>
<p>Once again, admissions people leave me scratching my head.</p>
<p>I'll look at your essay. Mine's submitted already--it was a little over 500 words, 3/4 of a single-spaced page. I just uploaded, ignoring the 2000 character thing--I think that's the point of having the upload there, it's not a hard limit.</p>
<p>I'll take a look at it if you'd like... I'm finished with all my essays for Jan 1 (not applying to Swarthmore) and have become an editing/cutting expert!</p>
<p>Sent! I hope my comments were helpful. You just need to examine which elements of the college are most appealing to you and keep those. You don't need each aspect ;-). Great essay though!</p>