Personal Growth. Perhaps this topic is the most popular one since it delves into the heart of what the admissions essay is all about: helping the college gain better insight into an applicant’s personality and character. Some schools ask targeted questions — “What was the most challenging event you have ever faced, and how have you grown from it?” — while others leave the topic open: “Describe an event that has had great meaning for you. Explain why and how it has affected you.”
One of the most successful strategies is to use a past event as a lens through which you can assess who you were and the person you became, how you have grown and changed, your transformation. Most children are curious, but were you the one who asked your teacher what caused the change of seasons of the year and then created a solar system model and explained the concept to your classmates? Though you may think that your topic needs to be more grandiose, that is not necessary for an essay to be effective. Instead, success lies in painting an accurate and vivid picture of yourself — one that will show admissions officers that you have much to offer their school.
- An interesting story that reveals your unique background and skills. Starting with an anecdote and or a personal experience often works well.
- A well-organized structure, including at least 3-4 paragraphs, along with a clear introduction and conclusion.
- A coherent argument that explores your key reasons for applying and interest.
- Relevant detail about your strengths and accomplishments.
- As with any essay, it must directly answer the prompt set and not include redundant information.
What makes an essay standout?
- Should highlight your unique skills, interests and academic background and or career experience.
- Avoids repetition – that is saying the same thing but in a different way.
- Refers specifically to the institution /college you are applying, including relevant courses and professors.
- Avoids redundant description that doesn’t reveal anything about you or is not relevant to the prompt.
- Any skills and experience highlighted should be backed up with specific examples.
- An essay that has directly referred to and answered the prompt, while sticking strictly within the word limit. Only detail and examples that answer the question set should be included.
- Avoid clichés, jargon, acronyms and vague and general statements that could apply to any candidate.
- A structure that includes three main parts: an introduction, the main body (2-4 paragraphs) and a conclusion that summarizes the key points made.
- You should add a sign before the topic or in any other place according to the admission committee’s recommendations.
The most important advice we can give is to be honest, refrain from using clichés, and show maturity. College represents a radical change from high school, so you want your reader to realize that you are more than ready to take the next major step in your life.
Sample Essays And Comments
Next: Accomplishments
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