How To Write Your College Essay

Table of Contents

How do you start a college essay?

Try starting with a question.

Begin with a bold statement.

Use an interesting quote.

Put the reader in medias res, that is, in the middle of things.

Challenge the reader by speaking directly to him/her.

Tell the reader what you do NOT want to do in your writing.

What should you not write in a college essay?

What should you not write in a college essay?

Never rehash your academic and extracurricular accomplishments.

Never write about a "topic"

Never start with a preamble.

Never end with a “happily ever after” conclusion.

Never pontificate.

Never retreat into your thoughts.

Never hold back.

Never give TMI.

How do I make my college essay stand out?

To make a particular interest stand out in the context of a college essay, talk about how it aligns with your educational pursuits. You could also explain what skills you've learned from the hobby that will be meaningful in your future career or use a specific experience to highlight growth and personal development.

Is it OK to talk about depression in a college essay?

College Transitions bottom line

If you are going to discuss your depression, anxiety, or other mental condition in your application, do so in a strategic manner for the purpose of illuminating otherwise unexplained inconsistencies in your academic record.

Is it okay to cuss in a college essay?

No, it is not okay to cuss in a college essay. College writing is formal register writing, which means that you use whole words rather than abbreviations, you maintain a respectful tone, and you present support for your ideas so that the reader will be comfortable agreeing with you.

How long should a college essay be?

The primary essay for your college application, often called a personal statement, is typically around 400-600 words. The Common App personal statement — which is used as the primary application essay by more than 800 colleges — must be 250-650 words.

When should I start writing my college essay?

Aim to start your college essays during the summer before your senior year. After all, once senior year is under way you'll also have to juggle coursework and other commitments, so having a draft or two completed will put you in the best possible position to submit polished, compelling essays.

Do colleges really read essays?

Yes, every college essay is read if the college has asked for it (and often even if they did not ask for it). The number of readers depends on the college's review process. It will be anywhere from one reader to four readers.

How do u start an essay?

An opening hook to catch the reader's attention.

Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.

A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.