<p>It seemed to help when I talked with DS about some possible topics, and things that might make for an interesting essay - “remember how you…”. Talking about it gets ideas into words, and also gets them thinking about what it is that is interesting to others about their experience. At the essay seminar they had at his school, the “expert” said you should try to write an essay that makes the reader say “hey, I’d like to meet this kid”. So you have to try to pique their curiosity in 250-700 words.</p>
<p>FYI - You can get an idea about the importance of admission essays from websites includeing “collegesearch”. That can help busy students prioritize essay efforts. </p>
<p>Cornell example
[College</a> Search - Cornell University - Admission](<a href=“College Search - BigFuture | College Board”>College Search - BigFuture | College Board)</p>
<p>Admission Policies and Factors
* Essay(s) required
* Required: SAT Reasoning Test or ACT
* If submitting ACT, the writing section is required
* Required for Some: SAT Subject Tests</p>
<p>Very important admission factors:
* Application Essay
* Extracurricular Activities
* Recommendations
* Rigor of secondary school record
* Standardized Test Scores
* Talent/Ability
* Academic GPA</p>
<p>Important admission factors:
* Class Rank</p>
<p>Considered:
* Alumni Relation
* Character/Personal Qualities
* Geographical Residence
* Interview
* Racial/Ethnic Status
* State Residency
* Volunteer Work
* Work Experience
* First generation college student</p>