Why "this" college?

Applying to College
1

<p>I'm a great student. I'm smart, quirky, and love to learn. I want to go to a school where I'll be surronded by people who can debate, play games, and simply chillax. How, then, am I supposed to answer a question asking why I chose a specific college?</p>

<p>In all honesty, I am drawn to the academics, liberal environment, and student culture. I want to be at a school where I can get an outstanding education, but still have have---be it with a college radio station, Quiz Bowl, drama, or some other such activity.</p>

<p>However, I can't put that in an essay. I really do want to get into the schools I am applying to. I don't want to sound as if I do not care, or that I haven't researched each school specifically, which I have. </p>

<p>What can I write about for each school I am applying to that will not sound cliched? (Reed, Oberlin, Macalester, Carleton)</p>

2

<p>Every college has these essays...someone must have some piece of brillance that is eluding me at this moment.</p>

3

<p>"However, I can't put that in an essay."</p>

<p>Why not? You should write what you really feel. If you feel this way, say so. Adcoms know this is hard. The question itself is cliched, because every school asks it. I think they are as interested in how you write as how you answer this question. The bottom line is that there actually <em>are</em> reasons you want to go to a particular school. Be honest in each case, really saying what draws you to a particular school, no matter how cliched it sounds to you. But you should do enough research on each school in order to <em>know</em> why you pick it.</p>