How important is the application essay?
The application essay allows the Committee on Admission to hear your voice, and also gives us a sense of your writing ability. Use the essay to discuss something that is personal to you, and don’t forget to spend some time revising and proofing your final copy before you send it with your application. The Common Application gives you six broad topics, including “Topic of your Choice,” allowing you to freely express your thoughts and ideas about anything. Remember: every piece of the application, including the essay, is a representation of you and you want to put your best foot forward!
The essay is extremely important. It offers you one of just a few opportunities in the entire admissions process to show who you are beyond your grades and test scores. It is your chance to differentiate yourself from other applicants and to make a truly unique impression on the admissions committee. And you may even find that writing your essay is a thought-provoking and personally revealing process.
