Applications for scholarships and selective colleges often require the student to submit an essay. As you are writing the essay, remember that those who will be reading the essay will likely be reading essays from hundreds of other applicants. Pay careful attention to answer the prompt clearly and concisely. Include personal information that will make your writing memorable and will make your application “stand out” from others. After you have completed the first draft of your essay, you may want to make an appointment with an English teacher or Ms. Hall to read it and make suggestions for improvements.

Personal Statement

This personal statement helps us become acquainted with you in ways different from courses, grades, test scores, and other objective data. It will demonstrate your ability to organize thoughts and express yourself. We are looking for an essay that will help us know you better as a person and as a student. Please write an essay (250-500 words) on a topic of your choice or on one of the options listed below. 

1. Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, or risk that you have taken and its impact on you.

2. Discuss some issue of personal, local, national, or international concern and its importance to you.

3. Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and describe that influence.

4. Describe a character in fiction, a historical figure, or a creative work (as in art, music, science etc.) that has had an influence on you and explain that influence.

* Common Application - 2000-2001

Tips and Thoughts about Writing Your Essay

Never underestimate the importance of your essay. The essay is your opportunity to shine and the only part of the application over which you have total control. Here are some comments from a Yale admissions counselor:

•  Sit around and THINK for awhile . What is this college's question asking? Make sure your essay answers it, but tell your own story. If the question gives you some latitude, mull over various ideas until you hit upon one that “feels right”, or about which one you're more excited about than the others.

•  Write about something that is interesting to YOU. It will be easier to write and will have a more natural voice.

•  Be personal . It's your application, your experiences, your thoughts, interests and personality. The admissions committee is trying to get to know you through your own words. Even if a topic is an intellectual one, the school is looking for a personal response.

•  Be reflective. Write in some depth . Use some detail or specifics, not just general (avoid superficial, and easy) statements. Flesh out your thoughts. Ask yourself WHY and HOW as you write, not so much WHAT, WHEN, or WHERE.