The Common App essay is a crucial component of a student's college application, providing an opportunity for them to showcase their personality, experiences, and goals to admissions committees. With thousands of applicants vying for a limited number of spots, it's essential to craft an essay that stands out from the crowd. In this article, we'll delve into the key elements that make a Common App essay exceptional, along with expert tips to help students make their mark.
Understanding the Prompt
The first step in writing a standout Common App essay is to thoroughly understand the prompt. The Common App offers seven essay prompts, each designed to elicit a unique aspect of a student’s character, experiences, or perspectives. It’s essential to choose a prompt that resonates with the student’s interests and passions, as this will enable them to write with authenticity and conviction. For instance, if a student is passionate about social justice, they may choose prompt 5, which asks them to discuss a challenge they’ve faced, a problem they’d like to solve, or an idea they’d like to explore.
Developing a Compelling Narrative
A well-crafted narrative is the backbone of a standout Common App essay. Storytelling is an effective way to convey a student’s message, as it allows them to share their experiences, emotions, and perspectives in a relatable and engaging manner. To develop a compelling narrative, students should focus on a specific incident or experience that has had a significant impact on their life. This could be a challenge they’ve overcome, a lesson they’ve learned, or a goal they’ve achieved. For example, a student who has volunteered at a local animal shelter may write about a particularly memorable experience that inspired them to pursue a career in animal welfare.
| Essay Prompt | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. | This prompt invites students to share a unique aspect of their background or identity that sets them apart. |
| 2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. | This prompt encourages students to discuss a challenge they've faced and what they've learned from the experience. |
| 3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. | This prompt invites students to explore a time when they challenged a belief or idea, and what they learned from the experience. |
| 4. Describe a problem you'd like to solve. | This prompt encourages students to discuss a problem they're passionate about solving, and how they plan to address it. |
| 5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth. | This prompt invites students to share an experience that has led to personal growth and self-awareness. |
| 6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. | This prompt encourages students to explore a topic or idea that they're passionate about, and why it's so captivating. |
| 7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. | This prompt offers students the freedom to write about any topic they choose, providing an opportunity to showcase their creativity and individuality. |
Crafting a Strong Opening
A strong opening is vital to capturing the reader’s attention and drawing them into the essay. A hook that resonates with the student’s theme or message can be an effective way to begin the essay, as it sets the tone and provides a framework for the rest of the narrative. For example, a student who is writing about their experience as a first-generation college student may begin their essay with a powerful statistic or quote that highlights the challenges they’ve faced. Showcasing vulnerability and authenticity is also crucial in the opening, as it allows the student to connect with the reader on a deeper level and create a sense of empathy.
Using Language and Tone Effectively
The language and tone used in the essay can significantly impact its overall effectiveness. Using descriptive language and vivid imagery can help to bring the narrative to life, making it more engaging and immersive for the reader. For instance, a student who is writing about their experience hiking in the wilderness may use sensory details to describe the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural environment. Employing a conversational tone can also make the essay feel more approachable and relatable, as it creates a sense of familiarity and connection with the reader.
- Use active voice instead of passive voice to create a more dynamic and engaging narrative.
- Experiment with different sentence structures to create a sense of rhythm and flow.
- Use transitions and connecting words to link ideas and paragraphs together.
What is the most important aspect of a Common App essay?
+The most important aspect of a Common App essay is authenticity. Students should strive to showcase their unique perspective, experiences, and voice in their essay, rather than trying to impress the reader with clichés or generic statements.
How can students ensure their essay stands out from the crowd?
+Students can ensure their essay stands out by choosing a unique prompt, developing a compelling narrative, and using language and tone effectively. It's also essential to showcase vulnerability and authenticity, as this creates a sense of empathy and connection with the reader.
What is the ideal length for a Common App essay?
+The ideal length for a Common App essay is between 500-650 words. However, it's essential to note that quality is more important than quantity, and students should focus on crafting a well-written and engaging essay rather than trying to meet a specific word count.
In conclusion, a standout Common App essay requires a combination of elements, including a compelling narrative, effective language and tone, and a strong opening. By choosing a unique prompt, showcasing vulnerability and authenticity, and using descriptive language and vivid imagery, students can create an essay that showcases their unique perspective and voice. Remember, the goal of the Common App essay is to provide a glimpse into the student’s life, experiences, and goals, and to demonstrate their potential for success in college and beyond.
