I'm starting to draft my college essays and I don't wanna mess this up. What are some things I should avoid when writing them? Any tips or common mistakes that I should be aware of?
When writing your college essays, it's crucial to make sure your essay stands out and reflects your unique voice. Here are some things to avoid and tips for writing a strong essay:
1. Cliché topics: Avoid topics that have been widely written about, such as sports injuries, moving to a new place, learning a new language as an immigrant, or overcoming a challenging class. If you decide to write about a common topic, make sure to approach it from a unique angle that emphasizes your personal growth or relationships.
2. Overused phrases/quotes: Try not to use frequently heard phrases or famous quotes. Your essay should showcase your own thoughts and ideas, not someone else's.
3. Listing accomplishments: The essay is not the place to reiterate your extracurriculars or awards. Focus instead on a specific experience or quality that showcases your personality or values.
4. Focusing too much on others: While it's fine to mention family members, friends, or role models, remember the essay is about you. Critical moments in your life or experiences that shaped you should be the center of the story.
5. Overly complex language: Keep your writing clear and concise. Don't try to impress colleges with convoluted sentences or obscure vocabulary. Your essay should be easy to understand and allow your voice to shine through.
6. Not answering the prompt: Carefully read and understand the essay prompt. Ensure that your essay addresses the question and doesn't deviate too far from the topic.
7. Negativity: Focusing on negative experiences or attributing blame isn't helpful. If you write about a challenge or failure, emphasize the lessons learned and your growth from the experience.
8. Humor that falls flat: While humor can be a great tool, not everyone shares the same sense of humor. Avoid overly sarcastic, offensive, or controversial jokes.
9. Depending solely on spell-check: While spell-check can help with minor errors, it won't pick up on all mistakes. Proofread your essay multiple times, and consider asking teachers, parents, or friends to review your work for grammatical errors and content.
10. Writing too generally: Be specific and personal in your writing. This helps the admissions officer get a sense of who you are beyond your application materials.
In conclusion, when writing your college essays, focus on showcasing your unique voice and experiences while avoiding cliché topics and commonly made mistakes. Be genuine, thoughtful, and engaging to make your essay memorable and effective.
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