<p>Do you guys think if I write a roomate essay to show who I am is a good idea. And is using the word “dude” a bad idea in this essay. It says be creative but I’m just being relaxed and laid-back b/c my CA essay is really serious. So any idea guys?</p>
<p>I would not use the word “dude”…it’s way too informal. I mean, you have people freaking out over using contractions.</p>
<p>If the supplemental essay is informal, then usage of words such as ‘dude’ are fine and probably work better.</p>
<p>Be yourself and take a leap b/c thats what admissions wants</p>
<p>the optional essay i wrote last year didn’t have any capitalization and it was written like i was in a chatroom or a forum. basically, how i am typing right now. i even threw in a smiley face, i’m pretty sure. :)</p>
<p>i don’t think they really care that the optional essay be written in a formal manner. they’re looking for creativity in it and your personality… it doesn’t even have to be an essay - it can be a collage or something…</p>
<p>however, on the mandatory essay, it’d be a bad idea to use informal punctuation, words, grammar, contractions, and so on.</p>
<p>Use “dude!” Don’t lose your personal writing style!</p>
<p>I think it’s ridiculous to rule out the use of contractions in a “formal” essay. IMO, elimination of contractions always makes writing sound stilted and impersonal (which is probably not what admissions officers want to read).</p>
<p>They want to see you! Not the english professor edited version of you. Look at how informal the essay question is… I think that gives a great guide. My essay is fairly informal. Get your punctuation, grammar, and spelling correct and you’ll be as formal as you need to be.</p>
<p>I wrote a poem. Honestly, they just want to see YOU. Be creative. Be yourself. Imagine reading these things…what would you want to see? Someone interesting, someone funny, someone that has heart. :)</p>
<p>I wrote a poem too! Not a touchy-feely one, just a narrative story that rhymed. It’s silly but I had fun; I feel like this is their chance to see what kind of person you are. They already know, from everything else, who you are as a student.</p>
<p>Yeah deffinately write your Sup. essay in your own personal writing style. Take chances and be creative. W&M will be fine if you use the word dude. But overall make sure that it gives a good description of yourself and is creative. Good luck!</p>
<p>The admissions officers will absolutely NOT be put off by “dude”. If it works, use it. Show your individuality.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>