THE 2 KEY MESSAGES
THE JOB OF THE ADMISSIONS ESSAY IS TO SHARE AN ASPECT OF YOUR PERSONALITY THAT REFLECTS YOUR READINESS FOR COLLEGE.
FIRST MESSAGE:
YOUR PERSONALITY.
Your GPA, test scores and extracurriculars will likely resemble those of other students. Therefore, your essay must be sufficiently personal to differentiate you from everyone else. This doesn't mean that you should divulge your innermost thoughts. It does mean that your essay....
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has lots of specific details that make the story unique to your experience.
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makes clear the impact that this experience has had on you.
SECOND MESSAGE:
I AM READY FOR COLLEGE.
There are lots of ways to communicate your readiness for college life. Here are just a few:
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You can make good decisions when presented with difficult situations.
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You have constructive relationships with a variety of people (e.g. employers, teachers, neighbors, little kids, senior citizens, etc....).
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You are comfortable taking a leadership role.
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You can view yourself with a sense of humor.
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You are passionate about something (e.g. a hobby, a sport, an academic subject, or a current issue).
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You are sensitive to the struggles of others and can respond thoughtfully.
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You have grit. You don't give up in the face of failure, but rather try new ways to achieve a goal or solve a problem.