application essay
Writing a Successful Admissions Essay
Writing can be an arduous task at the best of times, but the writing of an admissions essay is particularly difficult. So much significance is placed upon the essay that sitting down to write it can seem overwhelming. Regardless of the program or posting for which you are applying (be it an undergraduate or postgraduate university position, or a non-academic appointment), it is important to represent yourself in the best possible light-without appearing arrogant. Remember, the essay is your best opportunity to fashion a memorable, lasting impression upon those who will read it. Be creative and inventive, and write about something that will differentiate you and your essay from the numerous others the admissions officer will read.
As with any good piece of writing, it is important to create a solid outline before starting the actual writing process. Taking the time to construct an outline is almost always rewarded by a more polished final piece of work. An essay written specifically for admission to an institution, however, is somewhat different than those composed as course requirements. In her book, What Colleges Don’t Tell You, Elizabeth Wissner-Gross notes that “what’s most important about the application essay is not how well you write, but, rather, what you write.” Of course, you must always express yourself clearly and succinctly-but the admissions essay should chiefly be a personal revelation, a description of your values, achievements, or experiences. Make an outline that is topic- and detail-oriented, making sure to be specific about how you want to represent yourself.
Tags: admission essay, admission essays, admissions essay, application essay, application essays, college, college application, college application essay, colleges, course, essay, essays, program, research, university, writingRelated posts
Easy-To-Follow Steps in Crafting Your College Admission Essay
Scholastic records and entrance test results don’t provide any clue about an applicant’s personality or characteristics. A college admission essay is the only way for admission officers to get to know you outside the context of academic performance. In writing the draft of your college application essay, take note of the fact that you should begin first by telling the readers about the basics. Write something about your hobbies and interests and how you grew to love them. For instance, you can say you developed your interest in photography when you were on a family vacation to Europe and saw the picture-perfect historical destinations. You can also say something about the musical instrument you play in your Church’s music ministry. If you indicate that you are fond of teaching toddlers, support this by sharing something about your weekend volunteer stint in the neighborhood daycare center or orphanage. Always add supporting information that would further convince your readers that you really enjoy doing hobbies or interests included in your essay.
When you’re already done with the first guideline, proceed to writing something about your selling points. A college admission essay works like a very subtle promotional material. Although you should definitely avoid bloating your essay with self platitudes, you shouldn’t underplay good qualities, either. Make a rough list of qualities you know you possess and which were confirmed by reliable friends, family members, and superiors (teachers or previous work employers). From then, choose two to three best qualities you can elaborate. Cite instances wherein you were able to showcase a particular quality. Also tell the admissions officers something about how these qualities can be of help once they accept you in the university or college. It should not be mere repetitions of what was written in your resume or application form. As with the first step, supporting details are indispensable. This is the only way your essay would not read as superficial or too egoistic.
Tags: admission essay, application essay, college, college admission, college admission essay, college application, college application essay, essay, quality, teach, teacher, teachers, teaching, university, writingRelated posts