5 Tips for Writing a Spectacular College Admission Essay

by Beata Miesen

A college admission essay can be terrifying for those that have their hearts set on a certain university. However, there are things you can do to help ensure that you write an awesome essay. Whether that means reading the guidelines thoroughly or having someone look over your essay, you can write a paper that will excite the reader. Here are just five tips for writing a spectacular college admission essay.

Read the Admission Essay Guidelines Thoroughly

One of the biggest mistakes people make when writing a college admission essay is to glance over the guidelines and start writing. The essay you complete may sound absolutely wonderful, but if it's not what the college asked for, you'll hurt your chances of being accepted simply because you didn't send in what they asked for. This will lead them to question whether or not you're a good fit for the school. Read the guidelines thoroughly and then reread them.

Note Your Achievements, But Don't Embellish Them

It's important to note your high school and personal achievements, but you don't want to over embellish them. For example, if you donated one weekend a month to a charitable cause, mention that in your essay, but don't make it sound like you spent all your free time on the cause. Those reading college admission essays are looking for honesty.

Be Yourself

It's important to sound intelligent and professional, but you don't want to sound fake. Your college admission essay should come off as real. You should sound like a real high school student that is interested in going to college. This means that you may share that you love alternative music instead of pretending that you love classical. Let the real you shine through.

Don't Be Afraid to Be Controversial

After reading hundreds of college admission essays it's refreshing to come across an essay in which the writer isn't afraid to share his point of view. For example, you might discuss a recent issue that affects college students, such as a rise in tuition. You might include a statement that reads, "I understand the need for a rise in college tuition, but I also feel that students should see something in return."

Have Someone Look Over Your Essay Before Submission

Last, but not least, have someone look over your essay before submission. After outlining, drafting, and rewriting your essay, you may find it hard to detect any mistakes. Having a parent or tutor look over the essay will help ensure that you submit the best essay possible.

A college admission essay is important, but it's not impossible to create a spectacular submission. All it takes is being real and showing the college what you have to offer and why you deserve to be accepted.

This post was written by Beata Miesen

Beata Miesen works for a local tutoring group and specializes in helping high school students with their writing skills. She spends a great deal of time looking at essays - especially when college application season comes around.

{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }

Parthenia Lunning June 17, 2012 at 10:44 am

You are a very capable individual!

Reply

Leave a Comment

Previous post:

Next post: