Just wondering if I can repurpose my Common App essay for my National Merit application. They sound like they're looking for similar things, but does anyone know if that's a bad idea? Thoughts?
The practicality of repurposing your Common App essay for your National Merit application depends on how well your original essay aligns with the National Merit Scholarship Corporation's (NMSC) criteria. While both the Common App essay and the NMSC essay serve to showcase your writing skills and personal insights, they might cater to slightly different aspects of your profile.
Given that the NMSC places a strong emphasis on academic achievement and potential for college and career success, it's crucial that your essay reflects these elements. If your Common App essay strongly conveys your academic passions, intellectual pursuits, and long-term goals, then using it for your National Merit application might be a strategic move. However, if your Common App essay focuses more on personal growth or an extracurricular activity without a significant tie to academic excellence, I would recommend tweaking your essay, or even rewriting it entirely, to better fit the National Merit’s focus.
If you're wondering how well your essay works for National Merit, consider checking in with one of CollegeVine's advisors. They are well-versed in all aspects of the college process, and can help you think through how well it aligns with the National Merit application, as well as how you could adjust it to make the alignment stronger, if necessary. Best of luck with your applications, to college and for National Merit!
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