5 Quick Do's and Don'ts for College Application Essays
DO'S:
- Do show rather than tell the story. Give examples and illustrate points to bring the essay to life.
- Do use personal and first voice in writing. Don't imitate other authors and their styles. An essay should reflect a student's personal story in their voice.
- Do choose essay topics that are known subjects to which an applicant can relate and feel comfortable with.
- Do understand and have specific reasons on why a particular program or college is a good fit.
- Do get general feedback from parents, teachers and friends on a finished or nearly finished essay.
DON'TS:
- Don't use unfamiliar words or phrases.
- Don't exaggerate or write to impress the audience.
- Don't ignore the technical aspect of the essay. Pay attention to grammar, spelling, punctuation and sentence structure.
- Don't go into too much detail. Students should focus on just a few events and specifics and avoid the urge to include everything on the essay.
- Don't have others write the essay for you. It is dishonest and unfair to other applicants.