Hi guys, a little lost here. Several colleges on my list request more than one essay. How do I gauge which one is the most important or if they attach equal weight to all? Just not sure where to focus most of my energy and would appreciate any insights!
All college essays are important—every component of your application plays a role in the admissions decision. However, it's crucial to understand the purpose of each essay and how it contributes to your overall narrative. Typically, the main personal statement (Common App, Coalition App, school-specific application, etc.), which tends to be longer and more general, carries significant weight because it gives schools a holistic view of who you are as an individual and a student.
Supplemental essays, on the other hand, are more specific to the school itself. They give the institution itself a chance to understand why you're a fit for them specifically, whether or not you understand and value what they offer, and how you would contribute to their community.
In a sense, you're right to consider focusing specific energies on different essays. The main personal statement requires a lot of introspection and personal detail. You’ll want to convey your personal growth, values, and unique experiences. Contrastingly, supplemental essays typically require more research about the institution and comprehension of how you fit into their academic and social landscape.
My suggestion would be to devote time and energy into each essay, ensuring that they are well-polished, authentic, and paint a cohesive and compelling story about you and your aspirations. It's not necessarily about deeming one essay more important than the other, but understanding the different functions they serve in your application.
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