40 percent of college applicants submit essays that contain clichés, while 25 percent include overly used phrases. These statistics indicate that many students struggle to create unique and engaging college essays.
Common Mistakes
When writing a college essay, it is essential to avoid certain elements that can make the essay seem unoriginal or poorly written. Clichés, for instance, can make an essay seem like it was written by someone else, rather than the applicant themselves. Overly used phrases, such as "my passion for learning" or "my desire to make a difference," can also detract from the essay's overall impact.
Effective Writing
To write an effective college essay, students should focus on showcasing their individual experiences and perspectives. This can be achieved by using specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate their points, rather than relying on generic phrases or ideas. By doing so, students can create an essay that stands out from the crowd and showcases their unique voice and perspective.
Expert opinions
I'm Emily J. Miller, an experienced college admissions counselor with over a decade of experience guiding students through the college application process. As an expert on college essays, I've reviewed countless submissions and have identified common pitfalls that can make or break an applicant's chances of getting accepted into their dream school.
When it comes to writing a college essay, it's just as important to know what not to include as it is to know what to include. A well-crafted essay can make a significant difference in a student's application, but a poorly written one can raise red flags and hurt their chances of admission.
So, what shouldn't be in a college essay? First and foremost, clichés and overused phrases should be avoided at all costs. Phrases like "I've always been passionate about" or "I'm a people person" don't add any unique value to an essay and can make it sound like every other application. Instead, students should focus on sharing specific, personal anecdotes that showcase their interests, skills, and experiences.
Another thing that shouldn't be in a college essay is overly negative or complaining tone. While it's okay to discuss challenges or obstacles, an essay that focuses too much on the negative can come across as pessimistic or unenthusiastic. Colleges want to admit students who are excited about the opportunity to attend their institution and contribute to the community, not those who seem bitter or resentful.
Additionally, college essays should not include overly generic or vague statements. Statements like "I want to attend this college because it's a great school" or "I'm a hard worker and I'm sure I'll succeed" don't provide any meaningful insight into a student's thoughts, feelings, or experiences. Instead, students should strive to be specific and detailed, highlighting what unique qualities they bring to the table and how they plan to engage with the college community.
It's also important to avoid using overly formal or pretentious language in a college essay. While it's okay to use complex vocabulary and sentence structures, an essay that sounds like it was written by a thesaurus can be off-putting and difficult to read. Students should aim for a tone that is authentic, conversational, and engaging, rather than trying to impress the reader with big words or jargon.
Furthermore, college essays should not include grammatical errors, typos, or other mistakes that can make a negative impression. A well-written essay demonstrates a student's attention to detail, care, and commitment to their craft, while a sloppy or error-ridden essay can suggest a lack of effort or dedication.
Finally, students should avoid including sensitive or controversial topics in their college essay, unless they are absolutely relevant to the prompt and can be discussed in a thoughtful and respectful manner. Colleges want to admit students who are open-minded, empathetic, and able to engage in constructive dialogue, not those who seem divisive or intolerant.
In conclusion, writing a successful college essay requires a deep understanding of what to include and what to leave out. By avoiding clichés, negative tone, generic statements, overly formal language, grammatical errors, and sensitive topics, students can craft an essay that showcases their unique voice, perspective, and experiences. As a college admissions counselor, I've seen firsthand the difference a well-written essay can make in a student's application, and I'm confident that by following these guidelines, students can increase their chances of getting accepted into their dream school.
Q: What kind of tone should be avoided in a college essay?
A: A tone that comes across as overly casual, arrogant, or dismissive should be avoided. Instead, aim for a tone that is sincere, reflective, and respectful. This helps to create a positive impression on the reader.
Q: Should I include generic statements in my college essay?
A: No, generic statements that do not add unique insights or perspectives should be avoided. They can make your essay seem unoriginal and fail to showcase your personality. Be specific and authentic in your writing.
Q: Can I use overly complex vocabulary in my college essay?
A: While it's good to demonstrate your command of language, using overly complex vocabulary can be off-putting. It's better to use clear, concise language that effectively conveys your ideas. Avoid using words that you're not familiar with.
Q: Is it okay to include negative comments about others in my college essay?
A: No, negative comments about others, such as teachers, family members, or peers, should be avoided. This can create a negative impression and raise concerns about your attitude and behavior. Focus on positive experiences and relationships.
Q: Should I discuss sensitive or controversial topics in my college essay?
A: It's generally best to avoid sensitive or controversial topics that may be divisive or offensive. Instead, focus on topics that showcase your passions, interests, and values in a positive and respectful way. Be mindful of your audience and purpose.
Q: Can I use humor or sarcasm in my college essay?
A: While humor can be effective in small doses, sarcasm and overly humorous tone can fall flat or be misinterpreted. Use humor judiciously and make sure it aligns with the tone and purpose of your essay. Be respectful and considerate of your audience.
Q: Is it okay to include grammatical errors or typos in my college essay?
A: No, grammatical errors or typos can create a negative impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail. Make sure to proofread your essay carefully to ensure that it is error-free and polished. This demonstrates your commitment to quality and excellence.
Sources
- Harry Bauld. On Writing the College Application Essay. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 1987.
- Andrea Lunsford. The St. Martin’s Handbook. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2018.
- “Writing the Perfect College Essay”. Site: The New York Times – nytimes.com
- “College Application Essays”. Site: Khan Academy – khanacademy.org
