Is your child ready to start their college essay? (Part 3)

PARENTS!!!! READ THIS WITH YOUR RISING SENIOR!!!!

Use the rules below and you’re on your way!!!!

1. Start Early

Starting early buys you the luxury of revising and rewriting the essay. You can write it, put it away for a few days, then take a fresh look at it later. Walking away and then coming back brings a fresh perspective to the work -- without the pressure and stress that comes with a time crunch. 

2. Brainstorm.

Starting the essay can be the hardest part.  Brainstorming about your personality traits and defining your strengths is a good place to begin.  Your goal is to reflect about who you are as a person.  Don’t think of it as bragging.  Think about it as a self-commercial.  No one will see it except the admissions officer who will probably never meet you in person.  Be honest and generous with yourself!

3. Organize your thoughts.
   
   After you've gathered your notes, create an outline to organize your essay and decide where you want examples to appear. 

4. Let your first draft flow. 
   
   Don’t worry about making it perfect. Just get your ideas flowing and your thoughts down on paper. You'll fix mistakes and improve the writing in later drafts. Be personal and, if it comes naturally, add humor. Imagine that you're talking to a close friend when writing your essay. This technique should help the real you shine through. Remember, a rough draft doesn't have to be perfect. It just has to be a start.

Need more help? We are offering our How to Write an Awesome College Essay course and I will read your essay and give you feedback! Click this link and follow the steps to write the essay. Let’s do this together!