Hey everyone, I'm starting to brainstorm ideas for my Common App essay and I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. What strategies did you guys use to choose a topic and structure your essay effectively? I want to make sure my essay is personal and stands out but also fits well within the 650-word limit.
Hey there! Starting your Common App essay can definitely be a bit daunting, but with a structured approach, it can become more manageable.
First, start with self-reflection. Think about your interests, challenges, experiences, and what you're passionate about. Jot these down; patterns will often emerge that can form the basis of your essay.
As for making it personal, focus on a particular moment or story that illustrates something meaningful about you. The more detailed you can get about the anecdote—who was there, when was it, how did you feel, what was the atmosphere like, etc—the more unique and personal it will become.
Regarding structure, a common strategy is to use a narrative style to tell your story, ensuring you have a clear beginning, middle, and end. This can help maintain clarity and keep you within the word limit. Also be strategic with your word use—every sentence should serve a purpose, whether it's to advance your story or provide insight into your character.
Remember, the essay is a chance to show the admissions committee who you are beyond grades and test scores, so make sure you are providing them with new information they wouldn't be able to find anywhere else on your application. Good luck!
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