How to start writing my college essay

The panorama offers a view of hills and smaller mountains.

Some people during their lives climb many small hills. However, to have the most accurate view of the world, I must be dedicated to climbing the biggest mountains I can find.

Too often people simply hike across a flat valley without ascending because they content themselves with the scenery. The mountain showed me that I cannot content myself with the scenery. When night fell upon the summit, I stared at the slowly appearing stars until they completely filled the night sky.

Despite the windy conditions and below freezing temperatures, I could not tear myself away from the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos. Similarly, despite the frustration and difficulties inherent in scientific study, I cannot retreat from my goal of universal understanding.

Obviously, earthly concerns are insignificant to the rest of the universe. However, I experienced the overriding need to understand the origins and causes of these phenomena.

The hike also strengthened my resolve to climb the mountain of knowledge while still taking time to gaze at the wondrous scenery.

Only then can the beauty of the universe and the study of science be purposefully united. Anyone can write about how they won the big game or the summer they spent in Rome.

When recalling these events, you need to give more than the play-by-play or itinerary. Describe what you learned from the experience and how it changed you.

Being funny is tough.

A student who can make an admissions officer laugh never gets lost in the shuffle. What you think is funny and what an adult working in a college thinks is funny are probably different.

We caution against one-liners, limericks and anything off—color. Start early and write several drafts.

Tip Sheet: An Admissions Dean Offers Advice on Writing a College Essay

Set it aside for a few days and read it again. Put yourself in the shoes of an admissions officer: Is the essay interesting? Do the ideas flow logically?

Does it reveal something about the applicant? What you write in your application essay or personal statement should not contradict any other part of your application—nor should it repeat it. This isn't the place to list your awards or discuss your grades or test scores.

Answer the question being asked.

Don't reuse an answer to a similar question from another application. Have at least one other person edit your essay. A teacher or college counselor is your best resource.

College Essays, College Application Essays - The College Board

And before you send it off, check, check again, and then triple check to make sure your essay is free of spelling or grammar errors. Looking for strategic college advice?

Get one-on-one help from former Ivy League and top tier admission officers.