How to Write a College Essay
Everyone. Welcome to another deep dive with us.
Speaker 2:Hi, everybody.
Speaker 1:And, today, we're tackling something that I think is on a lot of people's minds right now
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah. For sure.
Speaker 1:Which is the college application essay. Mhmm. It's, it can be a really daunting process, I think, for both the student and the parents. Absolutely. And, you know, we've got some great material to really dig into today to kinda help unpack it a little bit.
Speaker 2:Yeah. You shared some interesting stuff with me.
Speaker 1:Yeah. So we've got this great blog post on writing standout college essays.
Speaker 2:Okay. Great.
Speaker 1:And we're gonna kinda use that as our jumping off point.
Speaker 2:Yeah. Sounds good.
Speaker 1:And really try to kinda go beyond just the sort of generic advice and figure out how to make this process work for you.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:And help your child really write essays that are gonna shine.
Speaker 2:Mhmm.
Speaker 1:And and, you know, I think one of the things that we really wanna hit on is the power of these essays.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:You know? I think sometimes we think of them as just kind of a box to check off.
Speaker 2:Mhmm.
Speaker 1:But they can actually have a much bigger impact than we realize.
Speaker 2:I think so too.
Speaker 1:So what have you sort of seen in your experience? Like, how much weight do these essays actually carry?
Speaker 2:Well, you know, I've seen studies that say a really well written essay can actually boost acceptance rates up to, like, 30%. Wow. Even when grades and test scores are maybe average.
Speaker 1:30%. That's that's huge.
Speaker 2:It is. Yeah. So it's it's not insignificant.
Speaker 1:No. It's definitely not just a box to check off.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:It can actually make or break an application.
Speaker 2:It really can.
Speaker 1:So so why? Why do you think these essays hold so much power?
Speaker 2:Well, if you think about it from the perspective of a college admissions officer, you know, they're looking through thousands of applications.
Speaker 1:Right. And, you
Speaker 2:know, a lot of these students are gonna have similar GPAs
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And similar test scores.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:So the essay is their chance to really, you know, get to know the person.
Speaker 1:Right. It's like their chance to see beyond just those numbers
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:And get a glimpse of who this student really is.
Speaker 2:Mhmm. It humanizes them.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:You know, it gives them a personality.
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:It lets their values and their passions and their unique perspective come through.
Speaker 1:Yeah. It's that kinda window into their soul
Speaker 2:Yes. Exactly.
Speaker 1:That you don't get from just a transcript or a test score.
Speaker 2:Right. And, you know, colleges, they're not just looking for students with perfect grades. Mhmm. They're looking for students who are going to, you know, be a good fit for their community.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:They want students who are gonna bring diverse perspectives and, you know, be engaged and make a difference.
Speaker 1:Yeah. Make an impact.
Speaker 2:Yeah. So the essay is the perfect platform for students to really showcase all of those qualities.
Speaker 1:Okay. So it's not just about showing off your academic achievements.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:It's about revealing those human qualities that make you stand out as an individual.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Okay. So I think we've established that these essays are really important. Absolutely. But let's get down to the nitty gritty here.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:What does this essay landscape actually look like?
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Because I know there's that big scary Common App essay.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:But what else are we dealing with?
Speaker 2:Well, so the Common App essay is definitely a big one.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:It's a cornerstone of the application process. You know, most colleges are gonna require it.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:But then you've also got supplemental essays
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Which are specific to each school.
Speaker 1:Oh, fun.
Speaker 2:Yeah. And those can really vary.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You know, you might have a why us essay.
Speaker 1:Oh, yeah. Those are popular.
Speaker 2:Or you might have to write about a challenge that you've overcome. Mhmm. Or or you might have a really creative prompt. You know, it could be anything.
Speaker 1:Oh, so it's not just one size fits all?
Speaker 2:No. Definitely not. Okay. And then on top of that, you've got scholarship essays.
Speaker 1:Oh, yes. The scholarship essays, which are a whole other beast.
Speaker 2:Yes. They are.
Speaker 1:So so we're looking at potentially, like, a dozen or more essays per child.
Speaker 2:That's not uncommon.
Speaker 1:No. Okay. Yeah. And they each have to be tailored to their specific purpose.
Speaker 2:Right. They all need to be unique.
Speaker 1:No wonder parents are stressed.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah.
Speaker 1:I'm getting stressed just thinking about it.
Speaker 2:It's a lot. But, you know, the good news is that all of these essays give students multiple opportunities to really showcase their strengths.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:So it's like a puzzle. You know? Each essay is a piece that contributes to the overall picture of who your child is.
Speaker 1:Okay. I like that analogy. Yeah. So it's not about just churning out generic essays. Yeah.
Speaker 1:It's about being strategic and using each essay to reveal a different facet
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Of your child's personality and their potential. Yeah. Okay. So that's encouraging. Mhmm.
Speaker 1:But but let's be real. The thought of writing even one amazing essay can be terrifying for a teenager.
Speaker 2:I know. I remember.
Speaker 1:So where do they even begin? Yeah. Like, what does this blog suggest about finding a topic that's really gonna resonate?
Speaker 2:Well, the blog really emphasizes authenticity.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You know, colleges, they can spot a forced or generic essay a mile away.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:They wanna hear your child's genuine voice. They wanna hear about their unique experiences, their passions, the things that make them tick.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:So, you know, encourage your child to really think about what matters to them.
Speaker 1:Yeah. And I was reading through the blog, and it mentioned this idea of focusing on moments of personal growth Oh. Rather than just achievements.
Speaker 2:I love that.
Speaker 1:Yeah. And that really stuck with me because it's not just about listing off all the awards you've won
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Or the things you've accomplished.
Speaker 2:It's about the journey.
Speaker 1:Well, it's about the journey.
Speaker 2:Exactly. What obstacles did you overcome?
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:What did you learn from those experiences?
Speaker 1:Right. What values did you develop along the way? Exactly. And I've those stories are way more interesting
Speaker 2:Oh, for sure.
Speaker 1:Than just saying, I won first place in the science fair.
Speaker 2:Definitely.
Speaker 1:Right? It's about those little moments, those turning points that really reveal who your child is. Mhmm. And those moments don't have to be, you know, grand or dramatic.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:It could be something as simple as helping a friend through a tough time or volunteering at a soup kitchen or even just having a deep conversation with a grandparent.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:It's about finding those seemingly ordinary experiences that had a profound impact on who they are today.
Speaker 2:I love that.
Speaker 1:Okay. So this is all starting to make sense. Ew. But I feel like we're just scratching the surface here.
Speaker 2:We are. You know,
Speaker 1:we talked about the power of the essay Mhmm. The importance of finding an authentic topic.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:But how do we actually translate that into a compelling piece of writing?
Speaker 2:Right. Well, that's where the next stage of our deep dive comes in.
Speaker 1:Okay. Let's do it.
Speaker 2:We're gonna explore the actual craft of writing. Mhmm. You know, the structure, the flow, the voice, the tone. Okay. It's like learning the secret language of college admissions.
Speaker 1:Alright. I'm intrigued.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Let's do it. Okay. Let's unlock those secrets and figure out how to write an essay Yes. That's going to make those admissions officers say, wow. We need this student on our campus.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Okay. So stay tuned for part 2 of our deep dive.
Speaker 2:Sounds good. Alright. So welcome back to our deep dive into the world of college essays.
Speaker 1:Yes. We're back.
Speaker 2:We've laid the groundwork. You know, we talk about why these essays are so important Mhmm. And how to find those authentic, meaningful topics.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:So now let's roll up our sleeves
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And get into the actual craft of writing.
Speaker 1:Okay. Let's talk about actually writing the thing. Yeah. Because having a great story idea Mhmm. Is only half the battle right.
Speaker 1:Absolutely. You gotta be able to translate that into an essay Alright. That's actually gonna grab the reader's attention Mhmm. And keep them hooked until the very last sentence.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:So so where do we begin? Yeah. The blog you shared mentioned something about structure.
Speaker 2:Yes. Structure is key.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Think of it like building a house.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You need a solid foundation
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And a framework to support the rest of the structure. And the same goes for an essay.
Speaker 1:Okay. So what does that framework look like? Yeah. Are we talking about, like, the 5 paragraph essay from high school?
Speaker 2:Not exactly. Right. While those classic structures can be helpful
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:College essays really offer a lot more freedom
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:To experiment
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And find a flow that works for your child's unique story.
Speaker 1:Okay. So it's a little bit more flexible. Right. But are there any, like, key elements Yeah. That every strong essay should have?
Speaker 1:Absolutely. Okay. Give us the inside scoop.
Speaker 2:So first, you need a captivating introduction.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Think of it like a movie trailer.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You wanna grab the reader's attention from the very first line
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And make them eager to see what happens next.
Speaker 1:So no long winded introductions or vague generalizations.
Speaker 2:Right. We need
Speaker 1:to hook them right away.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:So any tips on how to do that?
Speaker 2:Well, the blog suggests starting with a vivid anecdote.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:A thought provoking question
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Or even a surprising statement
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:That challenges the reader's assumptions.
Speaker 1:So something that really piques their curiosity Yes. And makes them wanna keep reading. Okay. So what about the rest of the essay? Yeah.
Speaker 1:How do we keep that momentum going?
Speaker 2:Well, this is where the meat of your essay comes in.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You've set the stage. Now it's time to really develop your story.
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Provide details, examples, reflections
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:That support your main point.
Speaker 1:And this is where that show, don't tell principle comes in.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Right. The blog really emphasized that a lot.
Speaker 2:Yes. It's so important.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:You know, instead of simply stating that your child is a hard worker
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Show them an action.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Describe that late night study session
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:The way they juggled multiple commitments
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:The extra mile they went to help a teammate.
Speaker 1:You know, the blog actually gave a really great example of this.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah.
Speaker 1:It said, instead of writing, I'm passionate about environmentalism Mhmm. You could write, the first time I saw a plastic bag floating in the ocean.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow.
Speaker 1:I knew I had to do something.
Speaker 2:Yeah. That's so much more powerful.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:It's evocative.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:It paints a picture that makes the reader feel something.
Speaker 1:Yeah. And that's what we want.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:We wanna create that emotional connection.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:Okay. So we've got our captivating introduction. We've got our well developed story.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Now how do we wrap it all up? What makes for a strong conclusion?
Speaker 2:Well, the conclusion is your chance to tie everything together
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And leave a lasting impression. Mhmm. Think of it as the final note of a song.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:It should resonate and linger in the listener's mind.
Speaker 1:So we're not just summarizing what we've already said. Yeah. I mean We need to offer something more.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Something that gives the the reader a sense of closure Mhmm. And maybe even a bit of inspiration.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Okay. So what are some strategies for doing that?
Speaker 2:Well, the blog suggests a few different approaches.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You could restate your main point
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:In a new and thought provoking way.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:You could offer a final reflection on what you've learned. Mhmm. Or you could even end with a call to action. That challenges the reader to think differently.
Speaker 1:So there's a lot of different ways to approach it.
Speaker 2:Yes. There are.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:But the key is to make sure that it's memorable.
Speaker 1:Right. It should leave an impact. Exactly. Okay. I'm seeing how each part of the essay Mhmm.
Speaker 1:Really builds on the previous one Right. To create this cohesive and impactful narrative. Yes. But there's one element that I feel like we haven't really talked about yet.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:I think it's especially crucial for teenagers
Speaker 2:What's that?
Speaker 1:Which is voice. Yes. Is voice.
Speaker 2:How do we help our kids find their authentic voice
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And let it shine through in their writing?
Speaker 1:Well, you know, this is where I think you as parents Mhmm. Can play a huge role.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:Encourage your child to write in their natural voice Mhmm. To use language that feels comfortable and genuine to them.
Speaker 2:So no trying to sound like a college professor No.
Speaker 1:Or using big
Speaker 2:words they wouldn't normally use in conversation. Exactly. Okay. Right? Think about it this way.
Speaker 2:If you are
Speaker 1:meeting your child for
Speaker 2:the very
Speaker 1:first time Yeah. Wouldn't
Speaker 2:you wanna hear their story in their words?
Speaker 1:Absolutely. Right.
Speaker 2:And I think that's what colleges are looking for too. They want that authentic, unfiltered perspective.
Speaker 1:Right. They want the real deal.
Speaker 2:They wanna know who the student really is
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Not who they think they should be.
Speaker 1:Well, I know some teenagers might struggle with this. Yeah. You know, they might feel pressure to sound perfect Mhmm. Or impressive. Right.
Speaker 1:And they end up sounding stiff or unnatural.
Speaker 2:Yeah. That can happen.
Speaker 1:So any tips on how to combat that?
Speaker 2:Well, the blog suggests a great exercise.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Have your child read their essay out loud
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:To themselves or to a friend. Mhmm. Do they stumble over certain words or phrases? Does it sound like something they would actually say?
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:If not, it might be time to revise and loosen up the language a bit.
Speaker 1:It's such a simple but effective tip.
Speaker 2:It is.
Speaker 1:You know, because if it feels awkward coming out of their own mouth Mhmm. It's probably gonna feel awkward to the reader too.
Speaker 2:Exactly. The goal is to create an essay that feels natural and engaging
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And authentically them.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And, you know, while we're on the topic of authenticity Yeah. I think it's worth addressing another common fear Okay.
Speaker 1:What's that?
Speaker 2:Some students have, which is that their experiences aren't impressive enough to write about.
Speaker 1:Oh, yeah. I bet that's a big one.
Speaker 2:It is.
Speaker 1:You know, they might think, oh, I haven't climbed Mount Everest
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Or won a Nobel Prize. Exactly. What do I possibly have to offer?
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:Yeah. So how do we reassure them Yeah. That their stories are worth telling Well even if they haven't achieved some extraordinary feat.
Speaker 2:You know, I love that you brought this up because this is something that the blog really tackles head on.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:The truth is colleges aren't looking for superheroes or prodigies.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:They're looking for students who are self aware
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Reflective
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And passionate about something. Yeah. Anything. Yeah? Anything.
Speaker 1:So it's not about the what.
Speaker 2:It's about the how. Okay. It's about how your child tells their story. Mhmm.
Speaker 1:How they connect
Speaker 2:those experiences to their values and their aspirations
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And what they reveal about themselves in the process.
Speaker 1:Yeah. So sometimes the most seemingly ordinary experiences
Speaker 2:Mhmm.
Speaker 1:Can actually make for the most compelling essays.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Right? It could be a story about a small act of kindness Mhmm. That had a ripple effect
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Or a personal challenge Mhmm. That forced them to grow
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Or even a moment of self doubt Mhmm. That led to a profound realization.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's about those universal human experiences Right. That we can all relate to
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Regardless of our background Mhmm. Or our achievements.
Speaker 1:I'm really starting to see how this blog Mhmm. Is so valuable for both parents and students.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:It's not just about writing a good essay.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:It's about using the essay as a tool for self discovery Mhmm. And personal growth.
Speaker 2:I love that. Yeah. You've hit the nail on the head. Yeah. This whole process is so much more than just a hurdle to overcome.
Speaker 2:Mhmm. It's an opportunity for your child to reflect on their journey
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Articulate their values Mhmm. And connect with colleges on a much deeper level
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:Than numbers alone can convey.
Speaker 1:Okay. So we've talked about structure Mhmm. Storytelling Yes. Voice. Mhmm.
Speaker 1:We've even touched on the emotional aspect of the essay. Right. But there's one more piece of the puzzle Okay. That we need to address
Speaker 2:What's that?
Speaker 1:Which is the dreaded revision process.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:Because let's be honest. Nobody loves revising.
Speaker 2:I know. It's not the most fun part.
Speaker 1:But it is absolutely essential It's for taking a good essay and making it great.
Speaker 2:Right. Revision is where the magic happens.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:It's where you polish your prose
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Refine your arguments
Speaker 1:Mhmm. And
Speaker 2:make sure your essay shines from beginning to end.
Speaker 1:And I bet this is where a lot of teenagers
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:And maybe even parents Mhmm. Start to get a little panicky.
Speaker 2:Yep. It can be overwhelming.
Speaker 1:Yeah. They're like, I've already poured my heart and soul into this essay. Right. What more can I possibly do?
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:So how do we approach this strategically and effectively?
Speaker 2:Oh, I understand that feeling, but trust me, revision is not about starting over
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Or tearing your essay apart. It's about taking a step back.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Looking at your work with fresh eyes
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And asking yourself some key questions.
Speaker 1:Okay. Like what?
Speaker 2:Give us the insider tips. Well, you know, I understand that feeling, but trust me, revision is not about starting over
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Or tearing your essay apart.
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:It's about taking a step back.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Looking at your work with fresh eyes
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:And asking yourself some key questions.
Speaker 1:Okay. Like what? Give us the insider tips.
Speaker 2:So the blog we shared actually offers a really helpful framework
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:For approaching revision.
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:It suggests focusing on 3 key areas.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Clarity
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Engagement
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And authenticity. Okay.
Speaker 1:I'm intrigued. Mhmm. Break it down for us. Okay. What does it mean to revise for clarity?
Speaker 2:So clarity is all about making sure your message is clear Oh. Concise Mhmm. And easy to understand. So read through your essay and ask yourself
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Does every sentence flow smoothly into the next?
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Are there any awkward phrases or confusing transitions?
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Is my main point clear?
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:And well supported by evidence and examples.
Speaker 1:So it's like stepping into the shoes of the reader. Exactly. And say, okay. Am I following this story? Mhmm.
Speaker 1:Does this make sense? Yeah. Is it engaging me?
Speaker 2:And, you know, sometimes it's helpful to have someone else read your essay
Speaker 1:Oh, for sure.
Speaker 2:With fresh eyes.
Speaker 1:Yes.
Speaker 2:They can often spot areas
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Where the writing could be clearer or more concise.
Speaker 1:Oh, absolutely. It's amazing how we miss our own mistakes
Speaker 2:I know.
Speaker 1:When we've been staring at something for too long. Right. Okay. So we've revised for clarity. Mhmm.
Speaker 1:What about engagement?
Speaker 2:So engagement is all about keeping the reader hooked k. From beginning to end. Mhmm.
Speaker 1:So ask yourself, does my introduction grab the reader's attention?
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:Is my story compelling Mhmm. And well paced? Mhmm. Are there any parts that drag Right. Or feel repetitive?
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:You wanna keep the reader moving through the essay.
Speaker 2:Yeah. You don't want them to get bored.
Speaker 1:Exactly.
Speaker 2:And and the blog had a great tip for boosting engagement
Speaker 1:Oh, yeah.
Speaker 2:Using sensory details Oh, yes. And vivid language
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:To bring your story to life.
Speaker 1:Love it.
Speaker 2:So instead of just saying I was happy
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:You could say, my heart soared as I crossed the finish line.
Speaker 1:Yes. Much better. Right. It creates an experience for the reader.
Speaker 2:Yeah. It's like painting a picture with words.
Speaker 1:Exactly.
Speaker 2:Okay. So we've covered clarity and engagement.
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:What about that final piece of the puzzle, authenticity?
Speaker 1:So authenticity is all about making sure your essay reflects your child's true voice Mhmm. And personality. Right. So read through the essay and ask yourself, does this sound like me?
Speaker 2:Are my values and passions shining through?
Speaker 1:Mhmm.
Speaker 2:Am I being honest and vulnerable Right. Even when it's uncomfortable?
Speaker 1:And I think that's where a lot of teenagers might hesitate. Yeah. Right? They're afraid to show their true selves Mhmm. Be a little weird or quirky or vulnerable.
Speaker 2:Yeah. But, honestly, that's often what makes an essay truly memorable and impactful.
Speaker 1:Right. The colleges aren't looking for these perfect robots.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Right? They want real people Yeah. With passions and struggles Yes. And unique perspectives.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:And sometimes the most powerful essays Mhmm. Are the ones that embrace that imperfection
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:And vulnerability.
Speaker 2:I couldn't agree more.
Speaker 1:Yeah. It's okay to be yourself. Mhmm. Let your guard down. Right.
Speaker 1:Show your true colors.
Speaker 2:It's what makes you unique.
Speaker 1:Exactly. And that's what's gonna make your essay stand out.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Okay. Well, I think that's a perfect note to end our deep dive on. Yeah. So remember, the college essay is more than just a hurdle to overcome. Right.
Speaker 1:It's a chance for your child to reflect, to grow Mhmm. And to connect with colleges on a deeper level.
Speaker 2:I love that.
Speaker 1:So embrace this process. Support your child and trust that their unique story is worth telling.
Speaker 2:Beautifully said.
Speaker 1:And, you know, if you are feeling a little overwhelmed by this whole process or if you're just looking for some extra guidance and support, there's a fantastic resource I wanna share with you.
Speaker 2:Oh, what's that?
Speaker 1:It's called College Journey, and it's powered by this incredible AI college counselor named Alice.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:And Alice can help you brainstorm essay topics, refine your writing, and even find scholarships.
Speaker 2:Wow.
Speaker 1:It's like having a personalized college adviser right at your fingertips.
Speaker 2:That sounds amazing. Where can our listeners learn more?
Speaker 1:Just head over to college journey dot ai and sign up for free.
Speaker 2:Okay. Great.
Speaker 1:You can explore all the amazing features they offer and see how Alice can help your family navigate this exciting but often overwhelming journey.
Speaker 2:That's a great tip. I think our listeners are gonna find that incredibly valuable.
Speaker 1:And with that, we'll wrap up our deep dive into the world of college essays.
Speaker 2:Sounds good.
Speaker 1:We hope you found these insights helpful and inspiring.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:Good luck on your college application journey.
