Writing your essay should be like writing a blog

I have been trying to be better about blogging.  Every time I come up with an idea, I never actually get to the computer to submit the blog.  Part of it is because I am busy.  Another part is because I am over-thinking it.  Another part is because I think it is something that no one wants to read.  These are all things that I am sure students are struggling with when writing their college essays as well.  So, I hope that my blog helps you get your ideas on paper.  I am sure you have schoolwork and extracurricular activities that keep you busy and it may be hard to find time to write your essay.  Take some time out and dedicate it to essay writing.  If you feel you have to stay on schedule with your other responsibilities, simply add this to your calendar as something else that needs to be done.  Start early, because the longer you wait, the more stressful the writing process will be.  Set deadlines that are earlier than the college admission deadline to allow time for proofreading and edits. Do not over-think the topic.  At a common application school, there are 6 different essay prompts.  One topic is topic of your choice, so you can really write about anything that you want to show us something about your personality.  The first thing that comes to your mind is probably going to be your best topic because it is and will truly be who you are.  We want to know who you are and make sure that your voice comes through in your writing. Lastly, do not try and figure out what we want to hear.  There is no perfect topic.  Different things will cater to different readers.  Our staff is very diverse in terms of their background, their experiences and their personal tastes.  Because our process ensures that more than one (and in many cases, more than two) readers will review your application, someone will be able to relate to your topic.

The fact that I actually submitted my blog should give you motivation to complete your essays.  I am submitting this on Homecoming weekend, so there are a lot of things going on today, but I found the time to submit this blog.

Relax and be yourself.  The sooner you figure that all out, the easier and less intimidating the process will be.  Happy blogging!

– Randy Tripp