<p>Scott Meiklejohn, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Bowdoin College, posted advice for students who are working on their application essays. Here are just a few of the bullet points:</p>
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Understand that we will learn not only from how you write, but also from your choice of topic. We received an essay two years ago from a young man who described his success at reaching level fifteen of some apocalyptic video game. We learned in detail about his strategies for slaughtering warriors or zombies or space aliens or whatever it was, and the hours hed spent polishing his craft. There wasnt anything wrong with the writing, but the lasting impression was of someone who seemed to spend a significant amount of time alone in front of a game screen, and we had to wonder if he would fully engage with the people and opportunities of a fabulous small college.</p>
<p> Some topics and styles are difficult and probably should be avoided. Video games could be one of them. Sex or bodily functions? No, and no. We dont want to read about these. Breakups and other drama with current or former loves? Usually not a good idea. Humor can work well, but its tricky. What cracks you up might not be so funny to the reader of your application. Haiku? Not recommended. Imaginary friends? See above.</p>
<p> Finally, be sure that the essay does more than simply recount a story or convey what happened. Many essays fall short of being wonderful because the writer provided only the facts, and not his/her reaction or point of view. We dont learn about you from knowing what happened. We learn about you from how you reflect on what happened.
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<p>The full article can be viewed here:</p>
<p>[Scott</a> Meiklejohn: An Essay on Essays Bowdoin Daily Sun](<a href=“http://www.bowdoindailysun.com/2012/11/scott-meiklejohn-an-essay-on-essays/]Scott ”>http://www.bowdoindailysun.com/2012/11/scott-meiklejohn-an-essay-on-essays/ )</p>