The Importance of the Essay

So in my college application, to an elite institution (<10% acceptance), I was just wondering if anyone had any experience or knowledge regarding just how important the essay is when it comes to a student’s application.

The reason I am asking this is that a couple of people from my High School (3-4 others) have also applied to the same university that I did, and out of these 4, I do not have the highest GPA, but I have, what I believe, is a stellar essay (as pointed out by my counselor) which paints a moving, specific story about me as an applicant (always had a love for writing as a way to move others). I also have a few distinctive EC’s which set me apart.

Applying as an international student, will I be looked down upon for this? I have competitive SAT scores (1500+), but I was still wondering how my application would be looked at among others in my high school gunning for the same institution. Thank you all very much for any advice.

Also, if anyone wants to read my essay, feel free to PM me.

If your essay is stellar, then you have a WAY better chance than the other people at your school who have higher stats or EC’s than you. I have heard by many that the essays are the most important part of the app to elite places. By what you said, you seem to be competitive because a moving essay is very impactful and will make them see you as a person. Also, unique essays also help.
Good luck!

No one here can answer. You don’t know every detail of what is in other applications, nor can you or anyone say what admissions will want this year. Stay in your lane. Put in the best application you can, and have backup plans if you don’t get into your top choices.

@yaleivyleague thank you! definitely eased my nerves a little

@intparent also solid advice as I spent so much time crafting the perfect application to reflect a true sense of myself as a person and a student. thank you so much !

I believe an essay is the most important part of the application process because no where else on the essay showcases who you are. High GPA and test scores don’t make a college go, “Hey, this kid sounds exciting!” but an amazing essay will

The essay is usually not the most important part of the application. Not by a long shot. But it can become important if a student is “on the edge”. It’s hard to know whether the essay will make a difference or did make a difference. But you should probably not worry about the other few students from your school who applied. Your competition is far wider than that. You are probably also different from the others in many ways. I’d not worry about them. Maybe all of you will be there next year. Maybe you are the only one who wants to be there next year. So no need to worry about them.

Some essays are so good that after you read it, you don’t care that much about their hard stats, unless they are applying for a specific area, and they did really bad in that area.

I would say the essay is the most important part of your application in this sense: all other aspects have been finished, and the essays is to be completed and within your control.

May I read your essay?