College Admissions Essay, Interview And Recommendations

College admissions essays and personal statements

In addition to the standard application, the colleges that you are applying to may require an essay, a personal statement, or both.   The essay is an opportunity for the school to evaluate your writing and personal communication skills.  Essay topics are typically assigned, or you may be able to choose from several possible topics. The personal statement, is your opportunity to distinguish yourself from other applicants by telling the college about your experiences and accomplishments.

In order to write a competitive and effective essay, consider the tips below:

• Obtain previous years’ applications from the colleges of your choice to give yourself a head start. Essay questions used by colleges in the past will probably be similar to those asked on your current application. 
• If you are allowed to choose your topic, be sure to select something that will fully answer the question, while at the same time highlights your strengths and skills.
• When answering any question, attempt to respond in a way that will distinguish you from other potential students. Why will you be an asset to the class? What makes you unique?
• Be sure that you fully understand the question before you begin. What is being asked and why?
• Think broadly before answering the question. Chances are, it will ask for a personal experience or idea. Brainstorm and come up with stories, memories and thoughts related to the topic. Then, select the one that defines you best and will help you answer the question most effectively.
• Demonstrate how your work or life experiences have shaped or affected you.
• Ask your high school counselor, advisor or co-worker to look over your essay and offer proofreading assistance and/or suggestions for improvement.
• Click here for more tips on writing successful essays.

College admissions interview

Some colleges require that you go through a college-admissions interview. This interview, like the college essay, gives you the opportunity to show who you really are. It will probably last around 15 to 30 minutes and will allow you to learn more about the college, and the college to learn more about you. You may be asked about personal interests and what you’ve done in high school and in outside activities. Think about what experiences you want to share before you go to your interview so that you can easily recall your answers when asked.

Letter of recommendation

Your letter of recommendation should come from an adult who knows you very well. You might ask a teacher, counselor, clergy person, high school organization advisor, coach, work supervisor, or a coordinator from an out-of-school or volunteer activity. Some colleges require that the letter be submitted with your admissions application, and others want it to be sent in separately.  Make sure you follow each college’s directions. And remember your application for enrollment won’t be considered complete until you have supplied ALL required documents.

Make sure you ask the writer early during your senior year of high school, or about a year before you plan to attend college, if he/she can write your letter of recommendation. Be sure to give him/her the required forms and good directions at least one month before the letter is due. Give him/her a copy of the essay you wrote and some points you’d like to have included in the letter, along with a stamped and addressed envelope. Remember to thank him/her in person and with a note for his/her help.