Essay Writing Tips
Many colleges and universities require you to submit an essay with your application.
The topic of this essay is usually the reason(s) you want to attend that particular
college. Some colleges give two choices and ask what you hope to accomplish in your
life as the additional topic. Other colleges require an in-person interview so they
can learn about you first-hand.
Experts advise students to follow the tips below to create a good essay for a college
application:
Make yourself shine
This is an opportunity to show the admissions committee what makes you special and
interesting. Schools are interested in seeing your unique perspective, strong writing
skills, and authentic voice.
Keep the topic specific
Many colleges ask applicants to describe themselves, an experience that influenced
their life or to explain a special interest. Often, the essay involves describing
an extracurricular activity you have enjoyed. Before you write the essay, come up
with a list of several essay topics and key points involved in each one. Then choose
the topic about which you feel most strongly.
Outline your essay
List all the items that apply to your essay and then organize them. Start with a statement
of purpose, then address the individual items and conclude with a restatement of your
essay.
Pay attention to the opening paragraph
Your opening paragraph plays a large role in the success of your essay. There are
several approaches you might use including starting with a quotation, a rhetorical
question or a short description of the experience you plan to expand upon in the essay.
Review and rewrite
Do not settle for your first effort. Rewrite the essay. Then edit the final draft
one more time and be diligent in your proofreading for spelling or grammar errors.
When you think it’s perfect, have a teacher review it and give you feedback.