“You have to be able to tell a good story,” says Anthony Bennette, a Stanford Online High School writing instructor who, for the past decade, has worked with students to perfect their college admissions essays. The Common App essay is arguably one of the most important works of a high school student’s career. In just 650 words, applicants must show universities who they are as a student and, more importantly, as a person.
“Even before you start the writing process, set up a schedule,” says Bennette. Starting early— during the summer before senior year—can be extremely helpful in keeping students organized and prepared for the writing process.
Be thoughtful of the recursive nature of writing–that’s going back and moving forward and making changes. That’s a natural part of the process.
— Anthony Bennette
After forming a schedule, it’s time to choose a prompt. The Common App offers seven different prompts, each requiring you to reflect on a different aspect of yourself. “Find a prompt that makes you feel most comfortable,” Bennette says. Reflect on each of the options available and how you will use it to showcase your story. Ultimately, pick the prompt that is meaningful to you.
Jot down key moments and narratives that you would like to highlight, thinking about how these experiences affected who you are today. “Talk with family or friends who have knowledge about the experiences you want to touch on,” Bennette suggests. “A lot of times, they will bring up something you may have forgotten.” Reflecting on the sum of your life experiences can be difficult, but talking through ideas with others can bring in new perspectives on moments of growth.
“Don’t try to be perfect from the start, just begin writing something,” says Bennette. “Be thoughtful of the recursive nature of writing–that’s going back and moving forward and making changes. That’s a natural part of the process.” Choose a few key themes that you want to communicate and showcase these with evidence from your life.
The short word limit often spikes difficult decisions. Bennette says, ”Don’t get too attached to any one part of the essay you’ve written.” When given 650 words, focus on quality over quantity. Go in-depth about the effect an experience or idea has had on who you are today.
“This is just one step in your journey,” says Bennette. College admissions can be very stressful, but it’s important to do your best and be open to change. Remember to showcase who you are, and try to have a little fun along the way.