<p>I just wanted to say that contractions need to be spelled out, as well as.numbers. I didn't know this until a college advisor told me.
Also focus more on describing how it shaped you rather than the actually describing Itself.
Tips in case you don't know.</p>
<p>Not necessarily. I doubt writing “3” instead of “three” is going to make a difference in the adcom’s eyes.</p>
<p>Think of it like this:
Essay: “My 3 siblings tell me I’m crazy.”
Adcom 1: OMG 3
Adcom 2: OMG SHOULD’VE BEEN “tell me I am crazy.”
Adcom 1+2: REJECTTTTT. WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH HUMANITY</p>
<p>Apart from sounding awkward if you use “I am” in that scenario, use numbers and contractions when appropriate or adding to your essay’s style. I for one like to use an informal style, so contractions are my way to go.</p>
<p>I fully agree with the second tip though. 100%.</p>
<p>…take my advice with a grain of salt, since I’m applying this year. lol</p>
<p>I would write three instead of 3. It is more professional. </p>
<p>Usually contractions are “weaker” then writing out the full words but then again you are limited on space and characters so I don’t think it would matter much. Then again I removed all my contractions because of the former point.</p>
<p>My college advisor made my page look like a big red mess due to all the red marks, and she works for Berkeley, so I think I would listen to her.
I already took out all my numbers, contractions all that stuff.</p>
<p>The numbers yes, that is just always correct. But she is wrong about the contractions. If you like, go ahead an err on the conservative side though. You wouldn’t use contractions in formal academic writing, but the application essay is general an informal personal piece and virtually all the colleges say they want to hear your voice. I would limit them rather than avoid them. And I’d definitely use them in quoting a person.</p>
<p>From admissions blog comments on the College of William and Mary:</p>
<p>“we encourage you to use your own voice so if that includes contractions that’s fine.”</p>
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<p>I am.going to show.this.to.her because she made me.get rid of.all of.mine!</p>