<p><em>sigh</em> Alright, I'm going to start on the dreaded essay process for Vandy. I've gotten one essay and read it already but quite frankly, it only confused me more. I'm getting another essay sent to me via e-mail by another nice guy who also got into Vandy. If there is anyone out there willing to share their skill for college essays who got accepted into a top university, please send it to my e-mail address: <a href="mailto:Vanderbilt.Hopeful@yahoo.com">Vanderbilt.Hopeful@yahoo.com</a></p>
<p>I do promise not to plagiarize. I know the essay is supposed to be 'real' and tell about your experiences and how things helped you etc. But the one that was sent to me seemed a little TOO casual, and not very.... well, smart sounding. Lol. However, it did tell about the person and made them seem real. It also mentioned stuff not previously mentioned on application, which I know is important... but... I dunno. I'm confused. I would greatly appreciate references. Please pass your knowledge on!</p>
<p>Are you applying for spring '07 or something?</p>
<p>I'm applying ED Nov. '06 >.<</p>
<p>there's no formula... show them who you are.</p>
<p>If you can't put together an essay now, you're probably not Vanderbilt material.</p>
<p>I didn't apply to Vanderbilt, but I'm comming off a year of applying to 10 schools, so I have a decent amount of experience in this area. Here's the deal: for college essays, you just have to find the balance between smart and personal. Most importaintly, college essays are to show them things that your transcript, awards, extracurriculars, etc. can't. Just be yourself with special attention paid to grammar, not using "this", and perhaps consulting the thesaurus for some word upgrades. Don't TRY to sound smart, though. If you are an intelligent person, it will shine through. Also, ask people you consider to be intelligent to read, edit, and critique your essay. Parents, though it can be trying to work with them, can be a great resource. Don't worry, you've got plenty of time. Just write about something you care about and let your passion and individuality show. Good luck :D</p>