From getting started to finishing them, college essays can seem a daunting task as so much depends on them. Here are our tips to tackle them.

College application essays serve as a crucial component of the admissions process, offering a unique opportunity for students to showcase their authentic selves beyond academic transcripts and test scores. Rather than seeking dramatic narratives or overly polished prose, admissions officers prioritize genuine reflection, personal growth, and an understanding of who the student is. These essays should delve into meaningful experiences, personal challenges, unique passions, or stories that reveal a student’s thought process and motivations. Ultimately, the essay aims to answer the question of how a student will contribute to the campus community and whether they are a good fit for the institution’s academic and social environment.

1️⃣ What do Columbia, Stanford, Harvard and Duke ask with different essay prompts

Starting with your college essay? Here’s a game-changing tip to make your application stand out.

2️⃣ What makes an interesting story?

You don’t have to have started your own company or made a scientific breakthrough to have something interesting to write about.

3️⃣ Beyond GPA and extracurricular activities

How to use your essay to tell something that doesn’t come up on your resume to give a full picture of who you are.

4️⃣ How to give yourself a head start 

There are essays you can start preparing, thinking and writing about even before the applications formally open 

5️⃣ Finding your voice! 

Stop writing college essays like it’s English class. Your writing voice needs to give readers some insight into your personality.  

6️⃣ Best way to start an essay

Including a compelling hook to start your essay, is a great way to grab your reader’s attention. 

7️⃣ Revise. Polish. Revise.

It’s not what you wrote — it’s what you FIX that gets you in!

Ready to write your essays in way that paints a compelling story of who you really are?

At Future Forward, our college essay experts help students convert their 4-6 years of hard work into narratives that convey its depth to admissions officers.

👉 Book a free consultation to learn how we personalize the college-to-career journey for your student. Start by filling the form below.