<p>Wrote one on prompt 1 that I think is original and humorous, but does not (I believe) show a different writing style or ability</p>
<p>Wrote one on the Waldo prompt that is more about the rhetoric and writing style. Also original, but lacking the more humorous approach.</p>
<p>Not sure of which to send - my common app essay was funnier, and I think that's just my personality. But I feel like the Waldo prompt is an opportunity to show admissions another side/creative writing style and ability</p>
<p>Any thoughts? I know it's vague since you can't compare my essays.. =/</p>
<p>Humor is great, but you can’t assume an admissions committee is going to feel the same. It’s a bold route, and probably a good one, but ultimately your essay must have substance.</p>
<p>Whichever essay you feel has more substance to who you are and your personality, go for it. I know the prompts seem “fun” and “creative”, which they are, but try to include as much of YOU as you can. If you are funny and humorous naturally, then the essay will seem natural, as opposed to forced.</p>
<p>The key to any well-written essay is a balance between syntax and semantics…combined with a good message. The first I believe is a matter of revision and a large part from writing skill. The second is purely a matter of revision and continued advice from different sources (i.e teachers, parents, counselors, etc.). The final part is up to you and is a product of time and patience. </p>
<p>Being “you” is important, but being “you” while keeping a college admissions counselor’s attention is a different matter altogether. When I was writing my essays, I kept thinking to myself, “what if my application is the absolute last one the reader reads before calling it a day?” This helped me shape my essay better because I tried to make them interesting without going overboard on the language or message.</p>
<p>I believe that the absolute best way to write is to make one, ****ty first draft…let it sit for a few days, then revise it, then show it to an English teacher and revise it some more.</p>
<p>Hope this helps! I speak in vague generalities sometimes :P</p>