It can be hard to know when should I start writing my college essays. The first step is to start in the summer before classes start. But you should avoid writing about Covid-19. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Start working on essays in the summer
It’s time to start working on your college essay. Since most students will have the entire month of August off, now is the time to get started. It’s a good idea to start drafting your essay in a separate document, rather than copying it over to the Common Application. Then, you’ll be able to see how much time you have left to work on it before deadlines.
Avoid writing about Covid-19 in your essay
While you may want to include a few lines about the Covid virus in your college essay, you should not write the entire piece about it. Instead, consider including a few examples of other problems and events you have personally experienced. If you are unsure of what topic to write about, brainstorm with a friend or counselor and discuss your options. If you still feel uncomfortable about the topic, Miller advises that you seek guidance from a high school counselor.
Identify your value-adds
If you want to land an admission to a college of your choice, you must be able to communicate your value-adds. Identifying these is essential for college essays. It is crucial to convey your individuality by showcasing what makes you stand out among the rest of the applicants. The best way to do this is to create a list of your personal values. Alternatively, you can conduct a 5-minute Values Exercise.
Identify your story beats
Identifying your story beats is essential for crafting a compelling college essay. You can do this by knowing what the prompt is, and finding an example that illustrates the topic. There should be a theme to the piece, and each section should have a specific point. Identify your theme, then choose a moment in time to illustrate your point. Avoid using yourself as a central character, and don’t forget to answer the prompt. Have someone else read the essay and ask you if you responded appropriately.
Develop a writing checklist
There are four stages in writing a college essay: the first step is to think about the application essay prompt. The second step is to write the first draft. The third step is the editing phase. The fourth step is to polish and finalize the piece. The most difficult step is editing, but it is also the most important. To make the process easier, use a checklist. Use the following tips to improve your essay.