College apps

Essay writing

Colleges research and finding information

The topic you choose isn't actually your topic. Your topic is you, and the theme you chose is an excuse to brag about yourself (character, what you learned, and achievements)
If you are going to use a metaphor, use it throughout the essay, not just at the end.
Does every sentence sound like they wouldn't be in someone else's essay? (Important for voice, unique connections/topic, and to not sound like AI)
Do you repeat the same thing in different ways?
Does your conclusion only repeat points you've made?
Don't just add adjectives.
Add detail that makes writing unique and personal, but not dramatic.
Use different fonts and document formats to read your essay in a new way.
Did other reviewers stay engaged the entire time, with interest?
Do you have "Eureka" moments, where you jump from the problem to the solution too fast? (If so, try to elaborate more on the transition or introduce another problem+solution.)
Give someone ur essay and ask them what the prompt was. (it is important to answer the prompt!)
Find a common theme between events in your life to connect them, and show how activities you've done link to each other (in terms of learning or growth)
You can use a journal/diary style essay as well if you want to have a unique format. It doesn't have to be like an essay
Go to the school's website and look at the values they listed. Demonstrate these in your essay
Download UW essay notes and other notes (.docx)