Writing is a process -
commit to your vision.
Draft
5
Think like a storyteller.
Stories are about something. What's your story about? If you can write it in a sentence, you'll get clear on your vision.
Have some fun exploring your story's focus. Remember, you are the protagonist.
Directions. In one sentence, tell us what your story is about.
Examples:
-
Athletic competitor with an artistic soul
-
Trendsetter with a passion for business
-
Deep-thinker on a quest to understand the mysteries of the universe
-
Rebel with a cause
-
Teen with a dream
-
First-generation college student trailblazing a creative future
-
Storyteller with a funny bone and a YouTube channel
-
Caring helper destined to become a child psychologist
-
Community advocate with ambition to run for office
Tone
This is not an essay for English class. It’s not for a grade, and you don't get bonus points for using a thesaurus. It has a completely different purpose. You're helping colleges get to know you as a person, and not just as a high school student. Think: conversational, not formal.
Personality and Voice
Does your story sync up with the personal qualities you want to convey? For example, there's a fine line between demonstrating passion for a project and bragging about your role in it. Everyone loves passion. Bragging? Not so much. The creative challenge is to strike the right balance.
Sometimes students tap into their truths, write a raw confessional and declare they are ready to submit. Keep in mind, first drafts are not final drafts. (You already knew that, right?)
Clichés – Don't Go There
There are some stories that are overdone. You can probably guess that an essay about a privileged teen who learns to appreciate poverty on a service trip is not a good idea. Or that a story about an athlete who kicks the winning goal after years of challenges will evoke groans.
Here's the thing – clichéd writing is the result of generalized thinking. Honest introspection and thoughtful expression are key to this process.
The Comparison Trap
By now, you've probably read sample college essays, whether in English class, online, or from your one friend who is destined to become a novelist. Initially, it's helpful to be exposed to a range of styles and approaches. But there is a potential downside, too. You can end up feeling disempowered.
Comparing yourself to someone else's journey will often leave you stranded. Don't let that happen. Your experiences and perspective belong to you. Own them, cherish them. Tune into them as you write.
Review. Personal statements allow you to be reflective, thoughtful and inspired about the direction of your life. Commit to the vision you want to share and enjoy the process of self-discovery.