Colleen Said:

Any suggestions for writing college application essays?

We Answered:

Do's:
-Do think "small" and write about something that you know about.
-Do reveal yourself in your writing.
-Do show rather than tell. By giving examples and illustrating your topic, you help it bring it to life.
-Do write in your own "voice" and style.

Don'ts:
-Explain why you got bad grades.
-Don't write what you think others want to read.
-Don't exaggerate or write to impress.
-Don't use a flowery, inflated, or prententious style.
-Don't neglect the technical part of your essay (grammar, spelling, sentence structure)
-Don't ramble-- Say what you have to say and conclude.

Jon Said:

Writing college application essays?

We Answered:

Absolutely start with a story. "This reminds me of a time that I was in xyz environment which was diverse. At first I found myself unable to contribute until I met one of my lifelong friends and mentors who helped me learn that we can all contribute if we just look to our strengths and use them for the betterment of others instead of for our own gain. What I ended up doing which was blah, blah, blah and because of it I helped people that I still have great friendships with today. When I attend Rutgers, I would like to diversify my talents and find new ways to help not only the university, but the students and the community around it. I would like to join a group to learn how to do xyz, and possibly even find a leadership position in a group that focuses on helping people with abc. That way I can make an immediate impact as well as improve myself in other areas so that I can continue growing personally as well as helping those around me for years to come.

Diane Said:

How long should college application essays usually be?

We Answered:

Most essays are 1-2 pages, double-spaced, font size 12 in Times New Roman or a similar font.

Tracy Said:

How long should COLLEGE APPLICATION ESSAYS be at the very most?

We Answered:

I've worked for the Admissions Department for Berkeley for a couple of years and I strongly advise you to adhere to the app instructions. Many times app readers will stop reading the application at the number of pages (in your case 2) where they asked you to stop. Try and sum it up as best you can. Have a few teachers read it over (or even a few friends) and make sure it meets the specifications and you should be fine. If it makes you feel any better most schools do a comprehensive review of applicants (grades, essay, extra curr. activities, etc). So, if you feel like you aren't well represented by your essay, you still have other places to shine. ;)

Do several drafts, have it reviewed by a couple different people, be honest and put your worries aside.

Veronica Said:

How can I concentrate on writing my college application essays?

We Answered:

Try visualizing yourself concentrating fully and writing the best essay you ever have, take 15 minutes to imagine it in all its detail, go for a walk and then sit down, recall the feelings from your visualization and set to work.

Hope this helps!