The Ultimate Guide in Writing an Application Essay
You'll apply for admission in your university of preference, and you must submit an application essay. You have total control in the process, but it doesn't mean that you can write anything.
Your admissions tutor will be interested in getting to know more about you. Ambition is part of your vocabulary, but you're a bit ashamed to reveal your humble background. You don't like comparison with other students, but you better make up your mind sooner or later. This can set you apart from the other applicants especially if you're applying for a place in the English Department. Your perspective may excite the members of the faculty.
No need to panic if you're not one of those few hopefuls who have scant knowledge of the field of study that they want to be good at. If you can prove that you have the drive to finish the requirements, then you can keep your fingers crossed about your chances. It may not be wise to think too far ahead, but your application essay will enable your tutor to glimpse into your character. Will you be able to keep an upbeat attitude? Pressure might be a foreign concept to you, but it shouldn't be confused with peer pressure. You can write about it. If you do it right, then you may get an unconditional offer. It will be impressive if your tutor will take a chance after having reservations about your academic qualifications.
You have an opportunity of making a good first impression on your tutor, yet you don't want to take the whole process seriously. After all, you want to prove that you love the writing process (or you're trying). You're willing to do it happily.
Your Writing Depends on the Following
The beginning of your paper is as important as how you end it. You might spend a long time in coming up with a catchy title, which is a good way to start your application essay. Your perspective can help you shorten the time on choosing the title, though. It would be your memorable holiday with your family, if not the individual who inspires you. A recount of your previous birthday celebration is not a bad idea at all. There's no need to think of an Earth-shaking movement if there isn't anything extraordinary about it at all. Furthermore, you don't have to write down all the details of a particular moment. The goal is to make your tutor notice your potential, so choose an adjective to aptly describe that moment. If there's a thing that is associated with it, which gives some sentimental value, then don't be hesitant to write about it. You'll get a flying mark if you can write an account consisting of several paragraphs. The next item will guide you.
Read the news. Your application essay doesn't have a word count unless your tutor specifies it. A news article will give you an idea on how to write your paper; the opening paragraph (or first sentence) must reveal the gist of your essay while the rest of the feature must consist of information that will keep your tutor hooked to your essay. You must figure out that news writer rarely uses the same word again and again. If you're an aspiring English major student, then you should keep on looking at an online dictionary.
Don't be afraid to reveal your opinion. A perspective can be an opinion on a certain theme, if not how a particular event might change your outlook on life. You might be unaware that it can push buttons. If it's alluding to a specific individual, then there's a possibility of offending that person. It's a good thing that your tutor will read your application essay, and no one else. You might ask for a second opinion, though. Do you trust that person? Do you have high regard for his/her opinion? Do you keep your calm if that person disagrees with your view? If you're uncertain of the answers, then you might have to look through your draft again.
Be real. If you're writing about a past experience, then certain traits will be known to your tutor. Will it help you cope with the pressure of the coursework? Can you adjust to college right away? Do you become a better person? You don't have to modify your paper if your answers won't put you on a positive light. Emotions, as well as your (limited or biased) thoughts, can make your paper more interesting, if not affecting your tutor directly. Choose your words carefully. On the other hand, don't forget that you're a teenager. A little fun might unleash your potential.
Get over it. You don't have to fret if you miss anything. You can read your draft and do the necessary modifications. You might lose your concentration. You have other things to do. There are feelings that can get the better of you. Mull over it later.
Answer These Questions
Does your application essay represent your best self? Can you contribute anything of value to your college? You might answer both questions to the affirmative, but you must consider one more thing. You reveal some flaws, which may be unintentional on your part. Your tutor happens to be a perceptive adult, but it can put you on a different light. If it's a potential, then you must look through it. Don't be afraid of it.
If you want to be a student of the English Department, then look at your essay over and over again. A few indicators will show that you can be good at literary criticism. You must have a clear grasp of the subject. If your vocabulary doesn't make you articulate (and persuasive) enough, then a little musing can pull you off. And don't forget your current events. Good luck!
