University application essays are difficult to write. Why? For many applicants, the reason is simple: they are trying too hard to impress the admissions committee.
Don’t try to impress; be impressive.
How can you be impressive? Be yourself. Be unique. Be authentic.
When it comes to writing your essay, whether it’s a personal statement, a statement of purpose, supplemental essays, or other forms, carefully consider the following:
1. Know yourself
In terms of writing style, pay attention to your own voice and strengths. Do not try to mimic someone else’s style that looked great online.
This means that if you’re a good storyteller, tell a good story. If you’re a linear and pedantic thinker, write pedantically. That said, do this just for the first draft to get your ideas out. Then, let someone else read it and give you feedback.
Keep in mind that too much story might make you appear a little less serious. Being too serious might make you seem boring. Find that middle ground.
In terms of content, take the time to think about yourself. You are more than your grades, your extracurricular or volunteer experiences, or your social media personality. Dig deep for the idiosyncrasies, the unique experiences and the particular skills that other candidates won’t have. Highlight these.
2. Know your reader
If you consider only thing, make it this: the people reading your essay are human. They are tired and bored and reading your essay in between a hundred others’.
So, be informative and interesting. Be brief, but comprehensive. Above all else, be unique. Don’t be the 37th applicant telling them how you’ve dreamed of becoming a doctor, engineer, or business leader since a young age.
Also, let them understand that you have carefully considered your path and that know why you’re applying to this school and program. Research the program’s website, brochures, etc. and make sure to use keywords from these.
Lastly, don’t give them any excuse to stop reading (grammar mistakes, redundancy, cliché, slang, overly familiar tone and language etc.). They’ll be happy to accept your invitation to reject them and move onto the next essay in their pile.
3. Check your ego at the door
Hundreds, even thousands of others are applying to the same school and/or program. Some, if not many, might have stories (essays) that are even better than yours.
You are not the only one who played sports, climbed Mt. Everest, volunteered in a poor country teaching the young children there English, and so on.
Don’t boast, brag, or bully. Even if you are the best at something, keep in mind that you are also likely not the best at something else.
Definitely be proud of your achievements and abilities. But, be humble enough to recognize that so are others. Remember the note above: yours is not the only essay admissions officers are reading.
