Writing a College Essay Writing a College Essay

Writing a College Essay

Writing a College Essay Pick a topic- What’s the point of your essay? n The essay should answer the question given and be written in an interesting way. n

The Essay- Your Opportunity to Sell Yourself Intro* Start with a strong clear opener that grabs the reader. *Set up your thesis (your topic) with the opener. Body*Usually have 1 - 3 paragraphs tight and focused. *Each paragraph should have an intro and concluding sentence with clear transitions between. *Make sure each paragraph has a clear point. Make sure each paragraph clearly relates to one another. Conclusion- Do not start your conclusion with “ In conclusion” *Your conclusion can be the moral of the story/ implication of the essay. *Be brief *Tie back to the audience/ show you will thrive at their school.

THINGS TO REMEMBER: n n This is your chance to stand out Proves your writing skills (one of the most important skills in college). Make the common topic unique to you. BIGGIE- It’s all about you and who knows you better than you?

COMMON MISTAKES: Poor proof reading- do not rely on spell check n Look for common version mistakes your/ you’re n Don’t use a quote for no reason; it makes you seem lofty but no one will be impressed n

COMMON MISTAKES cont. n n Don’t use too many big words. Your essay needs to be conversational. If you have a good word, use it. If you have to use a thesaurus skip it. Not adapting your essay for the college you’re sending it to. Make sure that you reference something about the school you are sending your essay to.

BRAINSTORMING: n Develop 3 lists of ten things about you. n Set 1 - Ten things nobody knows about me (serious/funny/silly). If you know the topic of the essay, center your list around it. n Set 2 - Ten things your good/bad at. (Try to make a negative a positive) n Set 3 Ten things you want to get out of college. (Don’t state the obvious- everyone wants a good education. ) Be specific to each college.