How do I write a strong college essay?

Question

There are many important elements in a college essay. What should I include to make mine stand out and come across as unique and compelling to admissions officers?

Answer 1

BE YOURSELF! Many students fall into the trap of trying to be someone else—whether they’re attempting to sound smart, unique, funny, or adopt qualities they’ve seen others succeed with. Write your own story—something only you can tell.

As someone who received offers from many top colleges despite a somewhat subpar GPA, I’ve found that essays are the best way to make the magic happen. I’d be happy to help you brainstorm and edit your essay to help you get into your dream college!

Answer 2

As a seasoned teacher-turned-enrollment manager, I wanted to shed some light on what I have found most helpful in writing admissions paper.

To make your college essay stand out, focus on telling your story. What makes you different? Admissions officers read tons of essays, so you want yours to feel real and personal, not like something you wrote just to impress them.

Here are the key things to include:

1. Be Yourself: Share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences honestly. Let your personality shine through. Don’t try to guess what they want to hear.
2. Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of saying “I’m hardworking,” tell a story that shows how you worked hard. Use details and examples that bring your story to life.
3. Focus on Growth: Colleges like to see that you’ve learned something or grown from your experiences. Talk about challenges you faced and what you learned or how you changed.
4. Clear Structure: Make sure your essay has a beginning, middle, and end. Start with a hook that grabs attention, then explain your main points, and finish with a strong conclusion.
5. Be Specific: Use specific examples, not general statements. The more specific, the more memorable your essay will be.
6. Edit and Proofread: Good writing is clear and free of mistakes. Read your essay several times, and have someone else look at it too. If you think you have reread it enough, you should do it at least one more time.

Remember, your essay is your chance to show the admissions team who you really are beyond grades and test scores. Make it personal, honest, and thoughtful. That’s what makes it unique and compelling! Want help drafting or polishing it? Let me know!

Answer 3

Great question. A strong college essay tells your story in a way that feels honest, personal, and thoughtful. Admissions officers read hundreds of essays, so the goal isn't to impress with big words or a perfect résumé. What stands out is your unique voice and how well you reflect on your experiences.

Here are a few things to include:

✅ Start with a moment

Open with a personal story or snapshot from your life. It should reveal something meaningful about you and draw the reader in right away.

✅ Focus on reflection

Go beyond what happened. Explain what it taught you, how it shaped your thinking, or how it challenged you to grow.

✅ Be real

Don't try to sound perfect. Let your personality come through, even if that means sharing a moment of failure, doubt, or humor.

✅ Connect to your goals

Help the reader understand how your experiences have prepared you for college and how you hope to continue growing there.

If you need help brainstorming or revising, I work with students to shape essays that are both strategic and personal. I’d be happy to guide you through the process.