<p>I am starting my main essay for the common application. After brainstorming multiple ideas, it is time to decide between writing an essay that is serious or one that is funny.</p>
<p>I know that many admission officers recomend using humor, but I am applying to some pretty competitive schools (Stanford, Penn, Harvard, Columbia). Do you think if I write about something humorous, they would not take me seriously?</p>
<p>Thanks for your suggestions!</p>
<p>Why not write about something humorous in a serious manner? Or write about something serious in a humurous manner? It’s always great to have a little bit of both! And while I’m certainly not experienced, I would think that if you write about something that is strictly funny then it’s a no-go unless you have something “serious” to comment about it, such as how it influenced you or led you to realize something, etc.</p>
<p>Except on essay topics like those UChicago provides for their supplement essays, humor should be used to enhance a topic that has merit on its own.</p>
<p>IMO writing about something humorous in a serious tone is very very drab, boring, almost analytical. If you’ve read Harry Bauld’s book about college essays you know what I’m talking about. Pick it up from your local library if it’s there. Great book.</p>
<p>JB</p>
<p>You’re totally right, JoonBug. I suppose I didn’t mean a serious tone quite like that–I was just trying to express that one doesn’t always have to choose between serious and humorous!</p>
<p>Well, remember that admissions officers are usually very bored from reading the usually drab, overly serious essays most people turn in. Use humor and grab their attention while talking about something serious, plus they love self-depreciating humor that shows you aren’t an arrogant twat.</p>
<p>I’d suggest using humor sparingly. Imagine a presentation at a very sophisticated museum on the Solar System, or something; you want to be as dignified and informative as possible, but you also want to include just enough humor or otherwise interesting language to prevent a feeling of didactic lecture. However, too much will make it look like you’re either trying too hard or not taking the essay seriously.</p>