Can you believe it’s already 2022 and we are two years into a pandemic? I can’t either. We’re all grieving the loss of something — plans, life the way we imagined it, or time with loved ones. I know many of you didn’t expect to do your junior or senior years remotely, and you’re not getting the year you pictured. I know it’s been hard and wanted to share a word of encouragement. You’re all in this together, and you will get through this. It’s okay to acknowledge that this is hard. This is all part of your story. Take it one day at a time.
Take Care
This has been a rough year. If you’re feeling a sense of loss from the time that we lost — time that didn’t look the way you imagined, travels canceled, plans delayed, school memories taken away before they happened, grief for loved ones — you’re not alone. Meeting with you all virtually this year, I’ve heard so many of your stories of how life has been hard. I want to share a gentle reminder to take care of yourself. As you are looking toward college or grad school applications, know that it’s okay if you didn’t accomplish everything on your to-do list this year. It’s okay if this year did not look as “productive” as you’d hoped. It was a tough year, and you made it through. I’m hoping with you that 2021 brings renewed hope as we move forward.
3 Ways to Make Your Words Count
It’s another busy application season, and I’ve loved getting to know many of you through your essays.
Today’s tip is about trimming that essay.
Most of the time, your first draft turns out longer than the allowed word count. In fact, I recommend that your first draft be longer — it’s easier to cut. My philosophy is: don’t include extra words when you can say something in fewer words. Every word should add purpose.
When you find yourself facing a couple hundred extra words, two days before your essay is due, here are some ways you can 1) cut words and 2) strengthen your essay.
Use active voice.
Okay: “The school was where I learned to be a better person.”
Better: “I learned to be a better person at the school.”
Eliminate linking verbs.
Okay: "I was able to learn about myself through the experience.”
Better: “I learned about myself through the experience.”
Break up sentences.
Okay: “I moved across the country, started at a new school, and struggled to make friends, and because of this I felt lost.”
Better: “I moved to a new country, started at a new school, and struggled to make friends. I felt lost.”
10 Tips on Writing a Personal Statement
Welcome! The application season is in full swing, and I’ve been busy meeting with students and reviewing essays. I love those light bulb moments when my students realize exactly what they want to say! Today I’ll share 10 tips on writing a personal statement.
Show, don’t tell. We’ve all heard this mantra, and it’s true. Instead of stating “I am hard-working” or “I have overcome so much in my life,” show us through a story.
Be specific. Details help to paint a picture and allow your story to come alive. What do you remember about the sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and textures? Where were you when you found out the news? How old were you when this important event happened?
Be clear and concise. Every word should add value to your personal statement. Don’t use ten words when you can convey the meaning in five words.
Don’t tell your whole life story. Your personal statement is not your journal, and the reader will never know everything. Only share those pieces that point to why you are now applying to this school or program.
Reflect. A story by itself does not add value to the personal statement. When you tell a story, share what you’ve learned from that experience and how it shapes who you are today.
Tailor the essay to the school or program. Show why you are interested in the specific school. Don’t just find and replace the name of the school for each essay.
Describe how you add value to the school or program. This is not just about what you will gain from the program, but also what the school gains from having you in the student body.
Stay in the word count. You don’t need that extra word. Staying in the word count demonstrates your ability to follow instructions.
Get feedback. It’s so valuable to get another set of eyes on your essay. Leave room in the review process to receive feedback from family, friends, teachers, and others.
Proofread! I can’t emphasize this enough. Don’t let one typo knock down your chances of admission.