Some Doubts:
Where lies the line, in the view of admission officers, between praising university and stating what you appreciate in that institution?
What is important to avoid ?
and for last, how unique must it be?
P.S: If it’s important, I’m aiming at TOP 20 schools.
Here is some good advice:
http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-essays/1705515-some-help-with-why-this-school.html
Don’t praise the uni. They know their strengths. What unique about them will you be able to engage – that’s what you should aim for, IMHO
My tips for “why” essays:
-Talk about what you can offer the school (for example: I would be able to major in X department and really pursue my interests there and this organization Y on campus is really appealing to me…)
-Show them that you are a good fit for the college and that you will not only excel academically there, but socially, --really demonstrate how the college is a good match all around for you.
-Talk about what excites you about the college. Be passionate about why you want to go to the college.
-Don’t just say generic things that could apply to a lot of colleges. get down into the nitty-gritty specifics. Talk about the faculty, or a specific unique program, for example.