How to make your Summer Applications essays stand out?

I have applied to several programs in the past but only have gotten a handful. I really want to be apart of the Bank of America Student Leaders program but I don’t know what will really help me stand out and give me even the smallest edge. This really applies to all summer programs in general tbh. If you guys have any suggestions for programs, please leave them here.

Personally, for my application essays I’ve found my responses are best when I’m passionate about the subject. Another key thing is to get proofreaders to help with proofreading essays, not just English teachers but if you have a College and Career specialist, have them review it. Show your personality and have your letters of recommendation try to reflect your strengths and the always do your best to show what you bring to the program that no one else can bring. Obviously, avoid the cliche.

If someone else can walk in with the essay you wrote, it’s no good. Write something that someone else cannot walk in with and claim as their own. This might mean a number of things depending on how you write. Maybe you infuse your personality into it, or your experiences in it. Whatever it is, make it unique to yourself and really show them who you are and why you would be the best candidate.