What Makes a Common Application Essay Compelling? (Tips & Guidelines)
The Common Application personal statement is a way for schools to get to know who you are, to hear your voice, and to see how you choose to share your thoughts, feelings and observations. As it is capped at 650 words, each word counts, so precision, clarity and grammatical accuracy are key all while making your story compelling.
Ten Proven Strategies for Writing an Outstanding Common App Essay
These essays are meant to be narrative accounts which help colleges to get to know who you are.
Colleges already see your résumé. The essay is not the place to list accomplishments.
It is critical to place more emphasis on showing NOT telling.
The topic is less important than how you write about it and what it says about you.
Small but formative moments
Intellectual curiosity
A shift in perspective
A quiet realization
Write about something that actually matters to you. The topic does not need to be dramatic. It does need to be meaningful.
Even if subtle, your essay should demonstrate change:
A deeper understanding
A new question
A refined belief
Increased self-awareness
Generally we avoid topics related to politics and religion.
Avoid vague statements and platitudes; specific moments/anecdotes create authenticity and depth.
Your essay should sound like you’ so let your voice shine through — be thoughtful, curious, reflective.
Colleges admit students who are still growing, not finished products. Even if subtle, your essay should demonstrate change: a deeper understanding, a change in perspective, a refined belief, an increase in self-awareness and/or awareness of others.
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