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Tufts University recently added optional essays to their application to allow students to display their critical thinking skills.
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“My Campus Bound counselor gave me honest opinions on which schools would really fit my personality. His corrections on my essays were great. Overall, it just made my college experience not stressful at all. Thank you so much.”
--Jessica, now at
U. of Wisconsin-Madison |
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Writing Your Essay
 Writing a personal statement can be one of the most satisfying—or frustrating—writing experiences students will ever have. We work with students to make sure they understand what is expected in the essay, and make sure they craft an essay that accurately conveys their personality, intellect, and talents—critical elements for an application that stands out!
Understanding what colleges consider a good essay versus a bad essay is the first step. Take a look at the following introductory paragraphs to see if you can figure out why they are considered good or bad.
Good Introductory Paragraph
My father divorced us when I was in seventh grade. At that time, I was going through what my mother called my "difficult stage" because my world revolved around school, friends, and boys, and "family" was often put on the back burner. I was unprepared for the resulting family crisis; my father, the man who nurtured my passion for art, literature, and my love of languages, would no longer be a part of my life. At the time, I thought that I could not go on. Now I realize that my father's rejection, while extremely painful, gave me a resiliency and strength of character that I did not previously know I possessed.
Bad Introductory Paragraph
On September 16, 1990 I experienced the worst feeling of my life the feeling of incompetence. It was a feeling of indescribable disbelief. My mother, my only parent, fell down the stairs of our home. It was then that I knew that I had to become a doctor to help people who were suffering like my mother. By attending your college, I will be able to fulfill my dream and to give back to my community through medicine.
In addition to counseling that involves brainstorming ideas and feedback on drafts by multiple experienced reviewers, Campus Bound students receive the Campus Bound College Guide—a ninety page resource book—that gives students pointers, examples, brainstorming worksheets, and strategies for writing an effective personal essay.
Whether you need help just with writing your essay, with paying for college or with all aspects of college search and selection, Campus Bound is the expert to turn to. Contact us today to design a package that is right for your needs and your budget. |
