It's the time of year when many high school seniors are applying for college and scholarship opportunities. The process can be time-consuming and stressful, especially when students are faced with the pressure of writing the application essays. Though it can be a daunting task, there are some ways to make an application essay stand out.
Respond to the prompt. Though it may be tempting to use the same essay repeatedly, make sure that what you wrote is a clear reflection of what is being asked or what the requirements are for each individual scholarship.
Focus on one specific story or quality. Avoid writing about too many different ideas or multiple stories. It's more effective to fully elaborate on one specific experience or one personal quality instead of making general statements.
Be authentic. Having a strong sense of self is important. Understand who you are and then show it in the essay. Don't be afraid to admit if there is an area that needs improvement. The people who are reading your essay aren't looking for perfection, but they are looking for honesty and a desire to improve. Sincerity goes a long way.
Be personal. If the scholarship is given in memory or honor of someone, take time to learn about that person. Mention them by name in your application and include a sentence about who they were or how their story inspires you. This personal connection shows genuine effort and will help your application stand out.
Use a reliable editor. Don't overlook the time needed to proofread and revise, and the importance of using a good editor. Sometimes thinking something is finished and then walking away from it for awhile before coming back to it and rereading it can be quite effective. It's also quite effective to read your essay out loud to yourself and even others so you can hear how your sentences and ideas flow.
Ultimately, the best essays don’t try to impress—they reveal the real person behind the application by reflecting an authentic voice, showcasing growth, and leaving the reader with a clear sense of of the applicant’s identity and the unique qualities they will bring to the campus community.
