Several DOs to keep in mind when writing a college admissions essay:
• DO try to tell an interesting story
• DO try to be focused on one or two topics, rather than try to encapsulate your entire high school career into 650 words or less
• DO have a sense of humor
• DO be creative and true to yourself
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And several, equally-important DON’Ts
• DON’T assume that your reader knows you: remember he or she isn’t your teacher or friend. The admissions counselor doesn’t know that you are the smartest/kindest/most responsible student in the state. Your essay is his or her first encounter with you, so make a good first impression.
• DON’T make empty statements like “I’m one of the smartest people in the school,” or “I’m a generous person.” SHOW don’t tell—if you think you embody a particular quality, think up of an anecdote to back up your claim. For example, do you read several books for pleasure every month, in addition to your schoolwork? Did you raise a specific amount of money for a local charity by organizing a walk-a-thon? These statements are concrete and can’t be disputed, as opposed to just saying you are smart and nice.
• On the other hand, DON’T show yourself in a bad light. Even when asked to write about a failure, try to focus on what you learned. Your admissions essay should show your BEST self. Now, that doesn’t mean a ‘false self.’ DON’T make stuff up that isn’t true or ignore what can be seen on your permanent record. But always present things with a positive spin.
• And above all, DON’T use sloppy grammar and spelling. ALWAYS get a trusted friend or teacher to read over your essay before pressing submit. Even professional writers have editors to make sure their prose seems flawless!