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Duke University
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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

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Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Playing the Adjective Game for College Apps?

I'm trying to craft a really unique personal statement and show 'me' to these colleges. I'm just stressed about the part where you have to describe yourself. Has anyone found any really creative or inspiring ways to include adjectives about yourself in your app essays? Any advice will help a lot, thanks!

2 months ago

I can understand your concern. A personal statement is your opportunity to show what makes you unique. When describing yourself, it's crucial not to simply list off adjectives, but instead to show them in action.

One approach is to tell a story where the adjectives you want to highlight come into play. Let's say you want to describe yourself as compassionate, resilient, and innovative. Don’t just state these attributes outright. Instead, maybe you'd tell a story about a time you noticed a lack of resources at your school and used your own skills to create a solution, demonstrating your compassion for your peers, your resilience in the face of adversity, and your innovative mindset.

In addition, you might consider discussing your own personal growth. For instance, were you once an anxious public speaker but now lead a volunteering group, conducting monthly meetings? That shows growth, bravery, and dedication, all without having to state those words outright.

Remember, the key is to weave these attributes into your narrative rather than simply listing them, allowing your actions and experiences to illustrate the person you are. Best of luck! I'm sure your unique characteristics will shine through your writing.

2 months ago

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