Writing the College Essay
Mrs. Filak  Fall ‘99



 
 

ESSAY WRITING HINTS:

1.  You might want to review the following texts:
     Hayden, Thomas C.  Handbook for College Admissions
     Moll, Richard.          Playing the Private College Admissions Game
     Curry and Kasbar.    Essays that Worked

2. Whatever other advice you get, be yourself.

3. Respond to the topic suggested and stay within the length recommended.  Imagine
    yourself  as the admissions officer.

4. Use the essay to elaborate on something which is not otherwise evident in
    reading your application (i.e.. a talent, interest, political view, or
    achievement).

5. Address your weaknesses by making them implicit strengths.

6. Write a different essay for each school.  They are looking for “M&M”
   (Match and Merit)

7. Generally speaking, the admissions office is looking for evidence of
    a) ability  b)motivation,  c)creativity,  d)self-discipline,  and e) growth potential.
 
8. Don’t procrastinate.  Write this essay as though a small part of your life depended on it.
 
9. Don’t be too grave.

10. Write it or type it yourself.  Don’t end up as a packaged product.  Admissions officers can tell!
 
11.   “The thicker the file, the thicker the candidate.”


LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

When you ask teachers for letters of recommendation, consider the following:

1. Ask someone who knows you well and who can communicate that
knowledge.

2. Ask well ahead of time, and ask whether the teacher feels (s)he can be
 positive.

3. Provide an envelope long with the correct forms filled out fully for your
 part of the information.

4. Provide a resume of your accomplishments so that the teacher can add
 background to the letter.

5. Waive your rights.  Teachers will write more.

6. Make sure you ask politely if the letter has been completed about a week
 before the deadline.  “Mr. X,  I want to thank you for writing my letter to
 Skidless U.  I’m just checking today to see if my file is complete.  Have you
 had a chance to get to the letter?”

7. Give appropriate thanks.  Your senior teachers usually spend hours writing
 these letters on your behalf, and a word of thanks (a real note) or other small,
 tangible gift is a simple courtesy.  This isn’t crass self interest-just a reminder
 of the “things your mother taught you” about saying thank you.

 [Main]  [Advanced Placement]
 
 
 
 
 
  

Adapted from Tim Averill, AP Course Material