College Essays – A Look in 2020
- July 23, 2020
- SAT
- Posted by James Maroney
- Comments Off on College Essays – A Look in 2020
As rising seniors look to the fall semester, college applications are at the front of their minds. The situation at hand is in flux, and that means it’s hard to know what to focus on.
Typically, standardized tests are a critical component of your college application. In past years, we have advised students that standardized test scores are one of the last elements of their application that they can control. By the time students are in the end of their junior year, they can’t change their past grades. They can’t add a bunch of new activities or sports that will make them stand out against their peers. The only two things that they can really change at this point are test scores and their essays.
The pandemic has created a situation where students cannot take standardized tests even if they want to. There have been very few opportunities, leaving students without scores. Luckily, most colleges and universities have responded to the situation by waiving test score requirements. Students who have not had a chance to take a test are not behind on their applications compared to their peers.
Still, one downside to this is that there are even fewer elements of the application that students can change now. The only piece that they can work on to strengthen their chances?
The essays.
Between the common application essay and any supplementary essays that a school requires, there are many chances for you to show who you are and make the case for why you’d be an asset to their school. But the college essay isn’t the same as a literature or history paper. Students should plan to spend lots of time brainstorming, re-drafting, and workshopping their essay. This is a chance to stand out, and let the admissions team get to know you.
There are many do’s and don’ts about writing the essay that students may not think about. Remember that the essay is supposed to highlight YOU. I remember one admissions officer talking about how many essays he’d read about grandfathers. He said that he always ended up thinking he would love to accept their grandfather’s application – but he hadn’t learned anything about the student who was actually applying!
Have someone who knows you really well read your essay before you submit it. Do they think the essay showcases who you are, and has your voice? That’s one of the most important parts of the essay.
Struggling with the essay, or thinking you’d love some extra support and advice? We’re here to help!
Want feedback on a draft you’ve written? Check out our essay editing service!
Want some great tips and advice, including actual essays and reactions from an admissions officer? Buy our book on Amazon!
Some addition resources to check out:
The Common App Essay Topics for the 2020-2021 Application Cycle
