How to Write a Winning College Application Essay -- NOW!

A great college application essay increases the odds that you'll get into a top-choice school. What are the elements of a winning essay? Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Shelly Haverkamp, Essay Writing Coach

   Make your personal essay personal. The tone of your essay should be conversational, direct and natural, not stuffy or overly academic. Admissions officers want to know more about how you think and what you care about. The best essays tell a story about one defining moment or experience. Tell a story that only YOU can tell. And, be yourself.

2. 
   Shelly Haverkamp, Essay Writing Coach

   Remember your audience. Admissions officers are usually recent college graduates themselves. They are not department faculty, and are unlikely to enjoy reading an essay that sounds pompous or arrogant. Admissions offers are enthusiastic college boosters, and want to pick the best class possible. Their goal -- in four hours, read 100 essays and find the 10 best to bring to the sub-committee. Make your essay easy to read, stick to the word count limit, and respond to the question. Admissions officers will be happier with you when you do.

3. 
   Shelly Haverkamp, Essay Writing Coach

   Start strong and prove your thesis statement with evidence from your life. A personal essay is basically a persuasive piece. You need to support your point with specific details. And, the essay needs to have one, and only one, central focus. Most essays could benefit from trimming in the first paragraph. So, once you complete your first draft, go back and delete any extra words or sentences from your opening.

Resources

• Get more tips from a professional writer at www.aboutUessay.com.