You see your friends getting acceptance letters, starting to debate which school they will pick, and you – well, you haven’t even started your application, or if you did, you are stuck on the essay and cannot continue.  Here’s some advice from current teachers and CHS alumni.

What is the best and/or worst idea that you have ever heard or witnessed for a college essay?

Matthew Fahnestock (ACT teacher)

I generally think that people should back off from feeling like they have to write about the most dramatic event of their lives. I think an essay that argues how painting your bedroom made you reevaluate your future is more interesting than one that recounts the time your dog died. The best one I’ve ever read was about what it’s like working at Kmart.

Michelle Disbrow (English teacher):

Do NOT over-share in a college essay.

Ashley Martin (CHS Alumni; Lock Haven University freshman):

If you get the prompt or have to talk about what you have done in school or in the community, I always thought it had to be, like, official community service, but in reality, something as simple as shoveling the sidewalk for your neighbors or mowing lawns or helping an elderly neighbor or something all counts as well. Even if your prompt is not about community service, things like helping your neighbor is a good idea for any college essay.

What tips would you give to a student who is struggling to write their essay?

Fahnestock: 

Consider the narrative you’re trying to create about yourself with your application, and make sure that your essay supports the image you’re trying to present of yourself. Begin by thinking about what makes you who you are. Be original. Your “boring” life is actually unique. Write from the heart, then proofread it and then have another person read it out loud for you to hear how it sounds to a stranger.

When it comes time to write, remind yourself that admissions counselors read dozens of essays every day and most of them blend together. You want to be the one whose essay stands out…for good reasons. Be careful not to be so focused on standing out that you come across weird. If an essay feels “gutsy” to you, definitely run it by an adult to make sure it won’t backfire against you.

Disbrow:

Do not wait until the last minute!  Have as many people read it as possible.

Nathen Feldgus (CHS alumni; Messiah College freshman):

A big tip for writing your essays is to use your resources. Check out the college’s writing centers or have teachers give you helpful feedback. Do not procrastinate. Also, have a friend read the essay. If a peer and an adult thinks your essay is good then you are set.

Now, go on your way. Get started on that college essay! Still stuck? There are plenty of resources around you: your teachers, your friends, the counselors, anyone that knows you and can help you think about your best qualities. As long as you have the motivation to write it, it can be done. Best of luck to you and happy writing!

Allisya Mullins is a former Periscope staff member who is working with us freelance to share ideas regarding college acceptance.  Want to contribute as a freelance writer?  See Mrs. Muir in M34!