Tips for writing the college essay

Don't be intimidated the college admissions essay. Think of it as one part of your application that is completely under your control. Use it to your advantage.

Speak in your own voice. Choose a topic that is meaningful to you. Write what you feel, not what you think the admission officer wants to hear.

Don't take on too big an issue and don't "preach." For example. college admission officers don't need to be lectured on the need for recycling. Instead, tell them how you supported recycling efforts in your school or community.

Try to come up with something a little different. Admission officers read hundreds of essays every week. Try to be engaging and memorable. Capture their interest and give them good reasons to finish your essay.

Accentuate the positive. Even if writing about a difficult experience, don't dwell on the negatives. Instead, discuss how the experience changed you and what you learned from it.

Read and reread, rewrite, and ask others for input. Ask some honest feedback. Ask youryour English teacher for feedback. Check and recheck the spelling and grammar.

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