How does writing really affect my chances?

<p>I took ACT in September and did really well on the MC part, but I didn't prepare for the essay section. Stupid, I know. My question is: will a low score in writing have a huge effect on my college admissions chances? I know it doesn't change my composite, but I have a hard time believing colleges just look at the composite.</p>

<p>Colleges obviously care to a certain degree, but not to the extent that they would just throw away your application because you scored less than an 9 on the essay.</p>