Need advice on Autobio Essay!...

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia School of General Studies
1

Hi,

I want to complete a second bachelor at GS. I have two versions of autobio essay. The first one is an explanation from my birth to today with all the difficulties (financial, political and educational) I have overcome. My friend thinks describing all aspects of myself makes the essay bland. But I think that autobio essay is different from other application essay. I should present and explain to GS the major dots on path so far. Omitting any part would be unfair to myself.

The second one focuses on the political experience since college. However, I am applying to Financial Econ program…the political focus is more relevant to the Human Rights program…

I’m so confused if GS wants the first more holistic one, or the second more specific one.

I hope some current students, alumni and GS tour guide could share some insights! Thanks!!!

2015 fall, good luck everybody!

2

In general, I think most GS application essays will be more like the first. They want to be left without questions about your background, and the first would do that.

The latter could be good, but mostly if it connected with why you’re applying to GS now, and what you’ll get out of the experience. Since it sounds like that’s not the case, I’d avoid it.