How to approach the Common App essay?

College Essays
1

<p>Yeah, I know it's late. I was just going to use my UC essay, but I think it might be better to start fresh.</p>

<p>I realized... I don't really know how you're supposed to approach the CA essay. I've heard so many different things. One classmate who spoke to a prof. college counselor said that they want it "as personalized as possible" with every skill/accomplishment/detail possible included without making it a resume. Others have said that you should really just focus on one anecdote and that it's more a showcase of writing ability than anything else.</p>

<p>I've also heard different things about writing about hardship. Many organizations for low-income students say it's essential that these students write about their situations so that need-blind colleges will know that they've had "resource limitations" (i.e. haven't had the whole world at their fingertips, like some students do). Others say that writing about hardship is really a no-go...</p>

<p>Anyone have any insight on the 'right' approach to take with this essay? Hardship or no hardship? Anecdote or spattering of details? Content or style?</p>

2

<p>I think it’s more effective to focus on one anecdote or skill/accomplishment rather than trying to laundry list everything. Write about hardship if you feel it has played a significant role in your upbringing, if it hasn’t then there is no reason to write about it. If you do write about hardship don’t dwell too much on how life is unfair, but rather focus on how you overcame those circumstances. </p>

<p>I think it should be personal in the sense you feel satisfied and can honestly say it portrays who you really are, not who you want to be or think people want you to be.</p>

3

<p>Yeah I agree with johnny, one deep and specific experience will not only feel more substantial, but if you have a story about yourself, it can be easier to right about as well.</p>