Unveiling the Ultimate Guide to Crafting Winning Common App Essays 2017-18
As the college application season approaches, one question that makes many high school seniors worried is “What should I write for the Common App Essay?” Fear not, because in this article, we will help you tackle the Common App Essay 2017-18 by providing some tips and tricks to make your essay stand out and impress college admissions officers.
First things first, let’s talk about the basics. The Common App Essay requires you to write a 650-word personal statement on one of seven topics, including your background, achievements, challenges, or an event that significantly impacted your life. With so many topics to choose from, how do you pick the right one?
One tip is to choose a topic that represents who you are as a person, and not just what you have achieved or experienced. For example, instead of writing about your perfect GPA or internship, you could write about your passion for hiking or baking, or how your cultural heritage has shaped your values and beliefs.
Another important aspect of the Common App Essay is the tone and style. You want to sound authentic and confident, but not arrogant or cliché. Avoid using buzzwords or generic phrases like “hardworking” or “making a difference,” and instead, use vivid imagery, specific examples, and colorful language that showcase your personality and creativity.
Now, let’s talk about some common mistakes that you should avoid when writing the Common App Essay. One mistake is trying to please everyone and not staying true to yourself. Remember, you’re not writing to impress your parents, teachers, or friends, but to show the admissions committee who you really are.
Another mistake is treating the essay as a resume or listing of accomplishments. While it’s ok to mention some of your achievements, you should focus more on explaining why they matter to you and what you’ve learned from them.
Finally, don’t forget to proofread and edit your essay multiple times before submitting it. Typos, grammar mistakes, and awkward phrasing can undermine the quality of your writing and distract from your message.
Now, let’s end this article with some fun facts about the Common App Essay. Did you know that the most popular topic among applicants is “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it?”
Also, did you know that the longest essay submitted to the Common App was 1,015 words, while the shortest was only 119 words? Remember, while the word limit is 650 words, quality trumps quantity.
So there you have it, some tips, tricks, and fun facts about the Common App Essay 2017-18. By following these guidelines and being yourself, you can write a memorable essay that showcases your unique qualities and increases your chances of getting into the college of your dreams. Now, it’s time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and start writing!
Applying for college can be quite a daunting task, and one of the most significant parts of the application process is writing the common app essay. The Common App essay is widely considered as one of the most essential requirements when applying to college in the US. It is a chance for students to showcase their individuality, creativity, and writing skills to colleges all over the country.
What Is the Common App Essay?
The Common Application is an undergraduate college admission application that students use to apply to multiple colleges simultaneously. Since its inception in 1975, the Common App has streamlined the admissions process and made it easier for students to apply to many schools at once. The essay section of the Common App allows students to write one essay that will be sent to all the colleges that they apply to using the app.
The Prompt
The Common App essay prompt changes every year. For the 2017-18 academic year, the prompt is as follows:
A lot of students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
This essay prompt allows students to write about anything that makes them unique. They can discuss how their upbringing, cultural identity, experiences, or hobbies have shaped them into the person they are today. However, the challenge of this essay lies in choosing the right topic and expressing it in a way that sets the applicant apart from other students.
Tips for Writing the Common App Essay
Writing the Common App essay can be a challenging task, but it is also an opportunity for students to showcase their writing skills and personal qualities. Here are some tips for crafting an outstanding Common App essay:
Start Early
Don't wait until the last minute to start writing your Common App essay. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and edit your essay. Starting early also allows you to get feedback from others, such as your classmates, teachers, or counselors.
Choose the Right Topic
Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that showcases your unique qualities. Avoid writing about topics that are too common or generic, such as sports, travel, or volunteer work. The goal is to stand out from other applicants by sharing something truly personal and meaningful to you.
Show, Don't Tell
Avoid writing a laundry list of your accomplishments and traits. Instead, use specific examples and stories to illustrate your qualities and experiences. Show the reader who you are through your writing.
Be Concise and Clear
Make sure your essay is easy to read and well-organized. Use concise sentences and avoid using overly complicated vocabulary or syntax. The essay should flow naturally and be easy to follow for the reader.
Edit Your Essay Carefully
Take the time to review and edit your essay carefully. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Make sure the essay is within the word count limit and meets all the requirements of the prompt. Also, ask someone else, such as a teacher or tutor, to read over your essay and provide feedback.
Conclusion
The Common App essay is a crucial part of the college application process in the US. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, creativity, and writing skills to college admissions officers. By choosing the right topic, using specific examples, and editing carefully, students can create an outstanding essay that sets them apart from other applicants.
Remember, the essay should be a reflection of who you are, so don't be afraid to let your personality shine through in your writing. With these tips in mind, you can tackle the Common App essay with confidence and create a memorable essay that will help you get into your dream college.
Comparison of Common App Essay 2017-18
The Prompt
The Common App Essay 2017-18 has one of seven prompts for students to choose from. These prompts are designed to elicit thoughtful responses that reveal the applicant's personality and experiences. Some of the prompts are straightforward, while others are more abstract.
| Prompt | Description |
|---|---|
| Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. | This prompt acknowledges the fact that people come from different backgrounds and have unique experiences that shape who they are. |
| The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? | This prompt challenges students to think about how they handle adversity and what they gain from difficult experiences. |
| Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? | This prompt encourages students to examine their own beliefs and thought processes, as well as to consider how others may hold different viewpoints. |
| Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma - anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution. | This prompt asks students to think creatively about the challenges they face and how they can develop innovative solutions. |
| Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. | This prompt focuses on the transformative experiences that shape who we are and how we view the world. |
| Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more? | This prompt allows students to explore their passions and delve into topics that truly interest them. |
| Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design. | This prompt gives students complete freedom to write about whatever they wish, allowing for maximum creativity and self-expression. |
Overall, these prompts allow students to showcase their individuality and creativity in their application materials.
Length and Format
The Common App Essay must be 250-650 words in length and must be submitted in digital format. The essay cannot be uploaded as a Word document or PDF; instead, students must use the text box provided on the application website.
Some students may find this format restrictive, as it limits their ability to use elaborate formatting or graphics.
Expectations
The Common App Essay 2017-18 is an important component of the college application process, and students should take it seriously. Admissions officers read thousands of essays each year, so it is important to stand out from the crowd.
Students should also keep in mind that the essay is not the only factor in the admissions decision. Admissions officers consider a variety of factors, including test scores, grades, and extracurricular activities, when making their decisions.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips for writing a successful Common App Essay:
- Choose a prompt that allows you to showcase your personality and experiences.
- Start early and allow plenty of time for revision.
- Show, don't tell, by using concrete examples and vivid descriptions.
- Be honest and authentic; don't try to be someone you're not.
- Consider having others read and provide feedback on your essay.
By following these tips and putting in the effort, students can create an essay that truly represents who they are and captures the attention of admissions officers. Overall, the Common App Essay 2017-18 is a powerful tool for students to showcase their personalities and distinguish themselves from other applicants.
In Conclusion
The Common App Essay 2017-18 is an important component of the college application process, giving students the opportunity to express themselves and showcase their unique experiences and perspectives. By carefully choosing a prompt, allowing ample time for revision, and staying true to themselves, students can create an essay that will impress admissions officers and help them gain acceptance to the college of their dreams.
A Comprehensive Guide to Writing a Winning Common App Essay 2017-18
Introduction
The Common Application essay is an essential part of the college application process. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your writing skills, personality, and real-life experiences to college admissions officers. The essay aims to give the admissions committee an insight into who you are beyond your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities.Understanding the Prompt
The Common App essay prompt changes every year. For the 2017-18 application cycle, the prompt reads: “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.”It is crucial to read and understand the prompt carefully before starting to write. Not following the prompt can lead to disqualification from consideration. Take time to reflect on your life experiences, passions, and achievements, and choose a topic that aligns with the prompt.Brainstorming and Planning
To develop a captivating essay, brainstorming and planning are critical. Begin by jotting down ideas, themes, and experiences that come to mind. Reflect on what makes you unique and identify significant events that have shaped you.Expand your ideas by creating an outline and map out how you will structure the essay. Divide the content into sections such as the introduction, body, and conclusion. Determine the message you want to convey to the admissions committee and how to integrate it into each section.Developing the Essay
Once you have finalized the topic and plan, begin writing the essay. Start with a hook to capture the reader's attention and make them want to read more. Use personal anecdotes, humor, or a thought-provoking question to attract the reader.The body of the essay should consist of two or three main sections that discuss different aspects of your background, identity, interest, or talent. Use vivid descriptions and examples to add depth and make the story come alive.The Importance of Voice and Style
The Common App essay is an opportunity for admission officers to see beyond your academic achievements. It is an opportunity to express your personality, voice, and style. Use a writing style that reflects your personality, whether it's humorous, serious, or a mix of both. Be authentic in your writing, avoid using cliches and generic statements. Try to create an essay that feels like a personal conversation with the reader, and make them feel as if they know you better after reading it.The Role of Editing and Revising
After completing the first draft, take a break and return to it later with fresh eyes. Edit and revise your essay multiple times to improve its clarity, tone, and coherence. Read it aloud to check the flow and ensure that every sentence contributes to the overall theme.Share your work with friends, family, or teachers to get feedback. Incorporate their suggestions while ensuring that your voice and personality still remain in the essay.Dos and Don'ts
Here are some dos and don’ts to consider when writing your Common App essay:- DO be authentic and genuine.- DO tell a story that showcases a unique perspective about yourself.- DO make sure the essay is free of grammatical errors.- DON’T write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear.- DON’T use overly complicated vocabulary to sound smart.- DON’T exceed the word count limit.Conclusion
In summary, the Common App essay provides applicants the opportunity to showcase their personality, voice, and experiences. It is an essential part of the college application process and should be taken seriously. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can create an essay that stands out and increases your chances of admission to your dream college.The Common App Essay: Your Key to Successful College Admission in 2017-18
If you’re a high school senior, congratulations – you made it to the final stretch! One of the biggest hurdles left between you and college admission is completing the Common Application essay. The essay accounts for a significant portion of your application and provides an opportunity to showcase your personality, your writing skills, and your ability to think critically and reflect thoughtfully on your experiences. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of crafting an essay that will impress admissions officers, fear not. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a standout essay.
Firstly, choose a prompt that resonates with you. The Common App offers seven prompts from which to choose, so take some time to read through them and determine which one best aligns with your interests, values, and personal experiences. Once you’ve selected a prompt, brainstorm a list of potential topics that relate to it. Don’t worry about being too narrow or too broad at this stage; you can always refine your ideas later on.
Next, write a rough draft. It can be tempting to focus on perfecting each sentence or paragraph as you go, but resist that urge. Instead, get your ideas down on paper (or on your computer screen) as quickly as possible. Don’t worry about grammar, punctuation, or structure just yet – those are elements that can be polished later. The goal at this point is to generate a cohesive narrative that answers the prompt you’ve chosen.
Once you’ve written your first draft, step away from it for a while. Take a break, go for a walk, or work on another task. Giving your brain some time to rest and recharge will help you approach revisions with fresh eyes and renewed energy. When you come back to your essay, read through it critically. Look for areas where you can add information, clarify your message, or replace weak language with stronger, more precise language.
Now comes the time to polish your essay. Pay attention to grammar and punctuation, as errors in these areas can distract from your overall message. Consider the structure of your essay – does it flow logically and smoothly? Are there any transitions between paragraphs that should be added? Finally, read your essay aloud. This can be a helpful way to identify awkward phrasing, run-on sentences, or unclear concepts.
While writing your essay, it’s important to keep your audience in mind. Admissions officers read countless essays each year, so your goal is to stand out from the crowd in a positive way. Be honest and authentic in your writing, and avoid using clichés or formulaic language. Additionally, make sure you answer the prompt you’ve chosen – this might sound obvious, but it’s easy to sidetrack or ramble when you’re writing about a personal experience or deeply-held belief.
Finally, don’t forget to ask for feedback. Share your essay with a trusted friend, family member, or teacher, and ask for their constructive criticism. Make sure they understand the prompt you’ve selected, and ask them to provide specific feedback on things like clarity, pacing, and tone. Remember that feedback is not an attack on your writing ability – rather, it’s a tool you can use to make your essay the best it can be.
With these tips in mind, you can write a Common App essay that showcases your unique perspective and personality. Remember that the process of writing an essay can be just as valuable as the end product – the act of reflection and introspection required to write a successful essay can help you gain insight into who you are and what you want to achieve. So take a deep breath, pick up your pen (or your keyboard), and get ready to craft an essay that will help you stand out among the thousands of college applications.
Best of luck on your application journey – we believe in you!
Common App Essay 2017-18 – People Also Ask
What is the Common App essay?
The Common Application or Common App essay is a personal statement that students are required to submit as part of their college application. The essay prompts change every year, and each prompt encourages students to write about their own personal experiences and opinions.
What are the Common App essay prompts for 2017-18?
The Common App essay prompts for the 2017-18 admissions cycle were:
- Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
- The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
- Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
- Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma-- anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.
- Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
- Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
- Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.
How many words do I need to write for the Common App essay?
The word limit for the Common App essay is 650 words. However, there is no minimum word count, so students should keep the main focus on answering the prompts and not worry too much about the length.
When is the Common App essay due?
The deadline for submitting the Common App essay varies per school, but most colleges require applicants to submit their applications by January 1st. However, it’s best for students to check with their prospective colleges to make sure they don’t miss the applicable deadlines.