Crafting a Winning Common App Essay 2017-2018: Tips and Strategies for College Admissions Success
The Common App Essay 2017-2018: Tips, prompts and how to stand out. Make sure your essay showcases your unique personality and experiences.
The Common Application essay is a crucial part of the college application process. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their personalities, experiences, and accomplishments in a way that sets them apart from other applicants. The essay prompts change every year, and for the 2017-2018 application season, there are seven prompts to choose from. Each prompt offers a unique opportunity for students to share their stories and demonstrate their writing skills.
One of the most important aspects of the Common App essay is choosing the right prompt. Some prompts may be more challenging than others, but every prompt has the potential to yield a great essay. It is important for students to carefully read each prompt, consider their own experiences and goals, and decide which prompt will allow them to best showcase their strengths.
Once a student has chosen a prompt, the next step is to brainstorm ideas. This can be a daunting task, but it is important to remember that there are no right or wrong answers. The goal is to come up with a unique and compelling story that will captivate the reader. Brainstorming can involve freewriting, making lists, or simply reflecting on one's own experiences.
After brainstorming, it is time to start drafting the essay. This can be a time-consuming process, but it is important to take the time to get it right. The essay should have a clear structure, with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence and should flow logically from one to the next.
One common mistake that students make is trying to cram too much information into their essays. It is important to remember that the essay is not a resume or a list of achievements. Instead, it is an opportunity to tell a story that illustrates who you are as a person.
Another important aspect of the Common App essay is the use of language. The essay should be written in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. It is important to avoid cliches and to use vivid imagery and descriptive language to bring the story to life.
Revision is also an important part of the essay-writing process. After drafting the essay, it is important to take a step back and look at it objectively. Are there any parts that are unclear or confusing? Are there any areas where more detail or explanation is needed? It is important to revise the essay until it is polished and error-free.
The Common App essay can be a daunting task, but it is also an opportunity for students to showcase their unique personalities and experiences. With careful planning, brainstorming, drafting, and revision, students can create essays that will stand out from the crowd and impress college admissions officers.
In conclusion, the Common App essay is an essential part of the college application process. It provides students with the opportunity to showcase their writing skills and tell their stories in a way that sets them apart from other applicants. By carefully choosing a prompt, brainstorming ideas, crafting a well-structured essay, using engaging language, and revising until it is polished, students can create essays that will help them achieve their college goals.
Introduction
The Common Application, often referred to as the Common App, is a widely used online platform for college applications. It allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities using a single application. One of the most important parts of the Common App is the essay section, where students have the opportunity to showcase their personality, values, and achievements. In this article, we will discuss the Common App essay for the 2017-2018 academic year.Prompt Options
For the 2017-2018 academic year, the Common App offers seven prompt options for the essay. These prompts are designed to give students a wide range of topics to choose from, allowing them to write about something that is meaningful to them. Some of the prompt options include sharing a story about overcoming a challenge, discussing a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea, and reflecting on a time when you demonstrated leadership.Prompt #1: Share your story
Prompt #1 asks students to share a story about themselves. This can be any story, from a personal experience to an academic achievement. The goal is to give admissions officers a sense of who you are as a person and what makes you unique. When choosing a story to share, it's important to think about why it matters to you and how it has shaped your perspective on life.Prompt #2: Overcoming challenges
Prompt #2 asks students to write about a time when they overcame a challenge. This could be a personal challenge, such as dealing with a family illness, or an academic challenge, such as struggling in a difficult class. The key is to focus on how you persevered and what you learned from the experience.Prompt #3: Challenging beliefs
Prompt #3 asks students to reflect on a time when they questioned or challenged a belief or idea. This could be a belief that you held yourself, or one that was imposed on you by others. The goal is to show how you think critically and are not afraid to challenge the status quo.Prompt #4: Reflecting on accomplishments
Prompt #4 asks students to reflect on an accomplishment or event that marked their transition from childhood to adulthood. This could be anything from winning a sports championship to volunteering in your community. The goal is to show how you have grown and matured over time.Prompt #5: Personal growth
Prompt #5 asks students to write about a time when they experienced personal growth. This could be a moment of self-discovery or a realization that changed the way you think about the world. The goal is to show how you have developed as a person and what you have learned from the experience.Prompt #6: Intellectual curiosity
Prompt #6 asks students to discuss a topic, idea, or concept that sparked their intellectual curiosity. This could be anything from a scientific discovery to a philosophical question. The goal is to show your passion for learning and your ability to think critically about complex issues.Prompt #7: Community involvement
Prompt #7 asks students to write about their involvement in their community. This could be volunteering at a local shelter, organizing a fundraiser, or starting a club at school. The goal is to show how you have made a positive impact on the world around you.Tips for Writing the Common App Essay
Now that we have discussed the prompt options, let's talk about some tips for writing a successful Common App essay.Tip #1: Be Yourself
The most important thing you can do when writing your Common App essay is to be yourself. Admissions officers want to get a sense of who you are as a person, so don't try to be someone you're not. Write in your own voice and don't be afraid to share your personality and quirks.Tip #2: Choose the Right Prompt
When choosing a prompt, it's important to pick one that resonates with you. Don't just choose a prompt because you think it will impress admissions officers. Instead, choose a prompt that allows you to showcase your strengths and highlight what makes you unique.Tip #3: Show, Don't Tell
One of the most common mistakes students make when writing their Common App essay is telling instead of showing. Instead of saying that you're a hard worker, show how you have demonstrated this through your actions and achievements.Tip #4: Edit and Revise
After you have written your essay, it's important to edit and revise it carefully. Make sure that you have answered the prompt fully and that your essay flows smoothly. Have someone else read it and give you feedback, and make any necessary changes before submitting it.Tip #5: Be Honest and Authentic
Finally, it's important to be honest and authentic in your Common App essay. Don't try to exaggerate or embellish your achievements or experiences. Admissions officers can spot insincerity from a mile away, so be true to yourself and let your genuine self shine through.Conclusion
The Common App essay is an important part of the college application process. By choosing the right prompt and following these tips, you can write an essay that showcases your personality, values, and achievements. Remember to be yourself, show instead of tell, and be honest and authentic in your writing. Good luck!Understanding the Common App Essay: What is it and Why is it Important?
The Common Application, also known as Common App, is a college application platform used by over 800 colleges and universities in the United States and abroad. One of the most important components of the Common App is the essay section. The Common App essay is an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, creativity, and writing skills to college admissions officers. The essay section of the Common App consists of seven prompts that students can choose from. Each prompt is designed to elicit a different kind of response from the student, allowing them to showcase their unique qualities and experiences. The essay section is an important part of the application process because it allows admissions officers to get a glimpse into who the student is beyond their academic achievements and extracurricular activities.How to Choose the Right Prompt for Your Common App Essay
Choosing the right prompt for your Common App essay can be a daunting task. It's important to select a prompt that allows you to showcase your unique qualities and experiences. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right prompt:1. Read all of the prompts carefully. Take note of the language used in each prompt and ask yourself which ones resonate with you the most.2. Consider your strengths and weaknesses. Choose a prompt that allows you to highlight your strengths and achievements while also addressing any challenges you may have faced.3. Think about your goals. Choose a prompt that allows you to discuss your future goals and aspirations.4. Be true to yourself. Choose a prompt that allows you to be authentic and true to yourself.Crafting a Compelling Opening for Your Common App Essay
The opening of your Common App essay is crucial. It's the first thing that admissions officers will read, and it sets the tone for the rest of your essay. Here are a few tips to help you craft a compelling opening:1. Start with a hook. Grab the reader's attention by starting with a surprising or intriguing statement.2. Be personal. Share a personal story or anecdote that illustrates your unique qualities or experiences.3. Show, don't tell. Use descriptive language to paint a picture for the reader and help them visualize the scene.4. Keep it concise. Your opening should be no more than a few sentences long.Telling Your Story: Strategies for Writing a Memorable Common App Essay
The Common App essay is an opportunity for you to tell your story. Here are a few strategies to help you write a memorable essay:1. Be authentic. Write from your heart and be true to yourself.2. Use specific examples. Use real-life examples to illustrate your points and make your essay more relatable.3. Connect your experiences to your future goals. Discuss how your past experiences have shaped your future aspirations.4. Use descriptive language. Use sensory details to help the reader visualize your experiences.5. Have a clear structure. Your essay should have a clear beginning, middle, and end.Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Common App Essay
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing your Common App essay:1. Being too generic. Avoid using cliches and generic statements that don't reveal anything about your personality or experiences.2. Focusing too much on achievements. While it's important to highlight your accomplishments, make sure to also discuss your challenges and failures.3. Not following the prompt. Make sure to address all parts of the prompt and stay focused on the topic.4. Being too informal. While you want to showcase your personality, make sure to maintain a professional tone.The Dos and Don'ts of Writing a Common App Essay
Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind when writing your Common App essay:Dos:1. Be authentic and true to yourself.2. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.3. Connect your experiences to your future goals.4. Use descriptive language to help the reader visualize your experiences.5. Have a clear structure.Don'ts:1. Use cliches or generic statements.2. Focus too much on achievements.3. Stray from the prompt or topic.4. Be too informal.5. Procrastinate on editing and revising.Finding Your Voice: How to Write a Common App Essay that Reflects Who You Are
The Common App essay is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality and unique qualities. Here are a few tips to help you find your voice:1. Write from the heart. Share your personal experiences and thoughts.2. Use your own vocabulary. Don't try to sound like someone else. Use your own words and phrases.3. Be confident. Don't be afraid to share your opinions and beliefs.4. Avoid using jargon or overly academic language. Keep it simple and easy to understand.Editing and Revising Your Common App Essay: Tips and Tricks
Once you have written your Common App essay, it's important to edit and revise it carefully. Here are a few tips to help you:1. Take a break. Step away from your essay for a day or two before revising it.2. Read it out loud. Reading your essay out loud can help you catch errors and awkward phrasing.3. Get feedback. Ask a trusted friend, family member, or teacher to read your essay and provide feedback.4. Cut unnecessary words. Make sure every word in your essay serves a purpose.How to Overcome Writer's Block When Writing Your Common App Essay
Writer's block can be a frustrating experience when trying to write your Common App essay. Here are a few tips to help you overcome it:1. Take a break. Step away from your essay for a little while and come back to it later.2. Brainstorm. Write down all of your ideas, even if they seem silly or irrelevant.3. Freewrite. Set a timer for 10 minutes and write whatever comes to mind. Don't worry about grammar or structure.4. Change your environment. Go for a walk, work in a different location, or listen to music.Submitting Your Common App Essay: What You Need to Know
Once you have completed your Common App essay, it's important to submit it correctly. Here are a few things to keep in mind:1. Check the word count. Make sure your essay is within the required word count.2. Proofread. Double-check your essay for any spelling or grammar errors.3. Submit on time. Make sure to submit your essay before the deadline.4. Save a copy. Save a copy of your essay for your records.My Point of View on Common App Essay 2017-2018
Introduction
As an AI language model, I do not have a personal point of view. However, as an observer of how humans interact with the Common App essay 2017-2018, I can provide useful insights into its pros and cons.Pros of Common App Essay 2017-2018
1. Simplicity: The Common App essay 2017-2018 is straightforward to complete since it only requires a single essay to be submitted for all participating colleges. This saves students time and effort.
2. Flexibility: The essay prompts are broad enough to allow students to showcase their personalities and unique experiences. This encourages creativity and self-expression.
3. Uniformity: Admissions officers can compare applicants' essays more easily since they all respond to the same prompts. This reduces bias and ensures that every applicant receives a fair evaluation.
Cons of Common App Essay 2017-2018
1. Limitations: The limited word count may prevent some students from fully expressing themselves. Additionally, the broad prompts may make it difficult for students to decide which aspects of their lives to highlight.
2. Competition: Since all applicants are responding to the same prompts, it can be challenging for students to stand out from their peers. This may lead to a sense of pressure or inadequacy.
3. Overemphasis: Some colleges may place too much emphasis on the Common App essay, leading to a narrow focus on the applicant's writing skills rather than their overall qualifications and potential contributions to the college community.
Table Comparison of Common App Essay 2017-2018
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simplicity | Limitations |
| Flexibility | Competition |
| Uniformity | Overemphasis |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Common App essay 2017-2018 has both advantages and disadvantages. While it offers simplicity, flexibility, and uniformity, it also has limitations, competition, and overemphasis. Ultimately, it is up to each student to decide whether or not to use the Common App essay and how to make the most of it.Closing Message for Common App Essay 2017-2018
Thank you for taking the time to read this article about the Common App essay for the 2017-2018 application cycle. We hope that this guide has helped you to better understand the purpose of the essay and how to approach writing it.
Remember, the Common App essay is your chance to showcase your unique qualities and experiences to college admissions officers. It's an opportunity to tell your story in your own words and demonstrate why you are a good fit for the schools you are applying to.
As you begin brainstorming ideas and drafting your essay, keep in mind that there is no one right way to write it. Your essay should reflect who you are and what you care about, so don't be afraid to take risks and be creative in your approach.
When crafting your essay, be sure to use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points. Don't just tell admissions officers that you are passionate about something - show them by describing a time when you demonstrated that passion through your actions.
Additionally, be mindful of the word count limit. The Common App essay must be between 250 and 650 words, so make every word count. Cut out any unnecessary fluff or repetition and focus on crafting a clear, concise essay that gets your point across.
As you revise your essay, don't forget to seek feedback from others. Ask friends, family members, or teachers to read your essay and provide constructive criticism. Be open to their suggestions and use their feedback to improve your writing.
Finally, remember that the Common App essay is just one part of your application. Admissions officers will also review your transcripts, test scores, extracurricular activities, and other materials when evaluating your candidacy.
That being said, the Common App essay is still an important component of your application that can help you stand out from other applicants. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you'll be well on your way to crafting a compelling essay that showcases your strengths and passions.
Good luck with your college applications, and remember to stay true to yourself throughout the process!
People Also Ask About Common App Essay 2017-2018
What is the Common App Essay?
The Common App Essay is a 650-word essay that students can submit to over 800 colleges and universities through the Common Application. This essay serves as a way for students to showcase their personality, interests, and writing skills to college admissions officers.
What are the Common App Essay prompts for 2017-2018?
The Common App Essay prompts for 2017-2018 are:
- Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
- The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
- Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
- Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma - anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.
- Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
- Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
- Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.
How do I choose which Common App Essay prompt to use?
You should choose the Common App Essay prompt that best allows you to showcase your personality, interests, and writing skills. Consider which prompt you feel most passionate about and which one will allow you to showcase your unique qualities.
What are some tips for writing a great Common App Essay?
- Start early and give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, draft, and revise your essay.
- Focus on telling a story that showcases your personality and interests.
- Avoid overusing cliches and writing in a generic style.
- Edit and revise your essay multiple times to ensure it is polished and free of errors.
- Have someone else read your essay to provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.