<p>So, typically I write in British English (favourite, not favorite). Do you think I should write like that in my college essays? Or force myself to do otherwise? I've lived in the US my whole life, and I just enjoy writing that way. I don't know if this would convey originality, or something strange and off-putting.</p>
<p>So, basically, should I write in British English or not? And if I do will it help or hurt my chances?</p>
<p>I’m not sure it particularly matters, though without any British heritage, it’s a bit strange.</p>
<p>I probably wouldn’t, unless you’re writing about cultural identity or something. They would probably view it as an error if there was no explanation behind it and you’d lived your entire life in America.</p>
<p>Write in your typical style and then you can edit the particular phrasing/words in the end, if you wish. Not sure if it would hurt; if it is consistently British then it wouldn’t really be seen as an error, per se, just a bit strange.</p>
<p>Write in your natural style. Using British English cannot hurt your chances of getting accepted.</p>
<p>When I was little I spelled it ‘favourite’ on purpose on a spelling test because I thought using British versions was cool. The teacher didnt agree and refused my arguments that it was technically correct. </p>
<p>I think you should use the British versions only if there will be more than instance of it. If it only comes up in one word they might think it’s just spelled wrong but if it’s in several different words they’ll realize it was intentional.</p>
<p>I think it will come across as an affectation that will lead to eye rolls–not the impact you want from your essays.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t… it will make them stop and look at it and hurt the flow of your essay.</p>
<p>I honestly don’t see what the fuss is about. I doubt they’d care so long as you’re consistent. (And even if you’re not, they probably won’t even notice. I mean, they certainly don’t count grammar errors against people, even at top universities.)</p>
<p>I can’t see why that would ever be viewed negatively.</p>
<p>In a job interview, you’re not supposed to be remembered for anything but the substance. I think this would be categorized as “not substance.” Write an essay that they’ll remember because it’s good, not because you spelled colour in a funny way.</p>
<p>Stop being a poser. It will only make you seem pretentious on your app.</p>