Hey everyone, junior here and stressing about college essays. What are some good steps to prepare for and write a solid college essay? Any advice would be appreciated.
Hi there! It's natural to feel a bit stressed about college essays, but with a good approach, you can write a fantastic one. Here's a step-by-step process that might help you:
1. Reflect on your interests, experiences, and challenges: Take some time to think about what makes you unique and how you've grown through your experiences. This exercise will help you identify potential essay topics.
2. Research essay prompts: Familiarize yourself with the Common App, Coalition App, or school-specific prompts, which are usually released in the summer before your senior year. Understanding what colleges are looking for might spark ideas for potential essay topics.
3. Brainstorm and outline: Once you have an idea of possible essay topics, start brainstorming and outlining your thoughts. Create a list of topics and possible angles, then select the ones that speak the most to you and create more detailed outlines to flesh out the structure and content.
4. Seek feedback: Share your outlines with a trusted teacher, mentor, or counselor to get some initial feedback. They can help you narrow down your options and offer guidance on which topics have the most potential.
5. Write a first draft: Once you have a solid outline and have received feedback, start writing your first draft. Don't worry about making it perfect yet; you'll revise and edit later. Focus on telling a captivating and authentic story that demonstrates your character and values.
6. Revise and edit: After completing your first draft, set it aside for a few days, then return to it with fresh eyes. Revise it for structure, clarity, and flow. Make sure your essay conveys the intended message and showcases your unique voice.
7. Proofread: After revising, proofread your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. It's crucial to submit an error-free essay that demonstrates your writing skills.
8. Seek feedback (again): Share your revised essay with the same people who reviewed your outlines, as well as additional individuals if desired. They'll provide you with valuable insights on content, tone, and any areas that may need further improvement.
9. Final revisions: Implement the feedback you received and revise your essay accordingly. Ensure your essay is polished, engaging, and representative of your unique story.
10. Repeat for supplements: Many colleges require supplemental essays in addition to the main essay. Follow the same process for each supplemental prompt, ensuring your responses are well-crafted and tailored to the specific college.
Remember, the most important aspect of your essay is to share your authentic voice and unique perspective. Don't be afraid to take risks and showcase your individuality. Good luck!
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