No. The requirement is 500 words, approx 1 page. That means, it should be around 500 words AND fit on one page (some kids want to double space, which doesn't work either). You need to cut back...I'd say be between 500-520, MAX, and all on one page.
My essay is a solid 485 words so it's 2 pages double spaced. Single-spaced it's a page, but I'm afraid that it'll be rough on the eyes if it's single spaced.
What do you think I should do- singe or double space it?
@konradpawlak: I think I did 1.15 spacing with 12 pts. space in-between paragraphs. It fit comfortable on one page (I had roughly 516 words) with nice spacing in between. I'd recommend keeping it to 1 page as it says "approximately 500 words, 1 page"
agreed. if people read this..
mine was probably around 700 and it was fine
plus if you write a really great essay i'm sure they'll enjoy reading it instead of counting words
Yeah, don't worry too much about the word count. Just try not to have unnecessary words/phrases/sentences and try and be as concise as possible. If you go over the limit, but each sentence really adds to the essay and gives the adcom a really good idea of what type of person you are, then it really doesn't matter.
Just another question about essays...
Does Penn appreciate creative responses to the "Why Penn" prompt? I have a relatively straightforward essay but I formatted it differently to spice it up. Am I better off just leaving it plain? What about the optional personal essay?
I guess I'm just kinda worried that my essay won't stand out enough... I feel like it comes off as genuine but not mind-blowing...
Location: CT -----> University of Pennsylvania '16
Posts: 535
My best advice is to make everything on your application best represent who you are. If you are someone who writes plainly and candidly, I would write your essays that way (but not boring). If you are extremely creative, then write all your essays that way. Don't mold yourself to suit the admissions game. Be yourself because that's the person your best at being.
I tend to be a bit too creative sometimes. I look at things in an artistic way while other people just see it as disorganized. I guess I'd rather be safe. I'll try to make my personal essay more creative in writing style to bring that part out then. Thank you for the advice!
My Why Penn was "creative" just because I felt like I touched on things most people don't (I'm applying to Wharton, yet business wasn't the focus per se). If you do achieve something from a creative organization, go ahead. A college essay I wrote was pretty straightforward -- the failures I had in my business. Instead of going chronologically though, I was chaotic. However, I think, by doing so, I wrote an essay that wasn't the typical "failure and what I learned from it" deal, but rather something more unique. If it helps and is genuine, do it.
