College Admission Essay/Personal Statement
What is a College Application Essay?
The college application essay (or personal statement) is your chance to show colleges who you are beyond your grades and test scores. It’s a way to highlight your personality, perspective, and what you’ll bring to campus.
Why It Matters:
Most colleges require an essay—especially if you're applying through the Common App. It helps admissions teams understand you in your own words and can make a big difference in their decision.
What Colleges Look For:
Strong writing, clear thinking, and an authentic voice. Many colleges also value qualities like resilience, especially after recent challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Need Help Getting Started?
Check out the resources linked in the sidebar for tips, guides, and example prompts to help you craft a strong essay.
Helpful Resources for College Essays
There are many great resources to guide you through the college essay process. Explore the following:
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Crafting an Unforgettable College Essay– Learn how to make your essay stand out.
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Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay – Practical strategies for a strong essay.
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27 Outstanding College Essay Examples from Top Universities – Inspiration from successful essays.
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School-Specific Supplemental Essay Crash Courses– Focused guidance for supplemental prompts.
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5 Common Mistakes in College Application Essays and How to Avoid Them– Avoid pitfalls that could hurt your application.
Contact
Kayla West
College & Career Center
360-563-7578
