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What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

How do I make my Common App essay stand out?

Hey guys, I'm a junior and I'm starting to think about my college essay. I've read some examples, but I'm not really sure how to make mine stand out among the thousands of essays that admissions officers read. Any advice or tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

a year ago

Hi there! It's great that you're thinking about your college essay early. From my experience helping my child with their application, I can suggest a few things. First, focus on a unique or personal aspect of your life that has shaped who you are. This will give admissions officers a window into your personality and experiences, which can help you stand out. Second, be genuine and authentic in your writing. Avoid trying to impress with big words or over-the-top accomplishments. Instead, let your true self shine through. Finally, make sure to revise and edit your essay multiple times to ensure it's polished and free of errors. You may want to ask a teacher, counselor, or someone else you trust to review it and provide feedback. Good luck with your essay, and remember to enjoy the process of self-reflection and self-expression!

a year ago

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.