Touching vs Showcasing

[Newdle]

<p>Very selective schools constantly say, “You have to bring something unique to the community.” It seems like all of them want a well-rounded CLASS, so here comes the question… Do you want to write a touching or “showcasing” essay? For example, should I write about how a personal and little experience really affected me, or should I talk about my “uniqueness” ever-so-subtlely so that they think I can bring something to their campus? I know the colleges want you to write what you care about, but something that’s meaningful to you and tear-jerking might not contribute to their campus. Opinions and hindsights? Thanks!</p>

[NUHPME]

<p>A combination of both is ideal. I would personally go with touching, but try to reference anything significant that may be relevant to your essay. Remember to show, not tell</p>

[gibby]

<p>Although selective colleges are looking for a well-rounded class, they seem to be seeking out lop-sided students to make up that class. And let’s face it, most students are not unique – most do a variety of activities that are the stuff of high school: debate team, school newspaper, sports, drama, dance, music, art, etc.</p>

<p>So, instead of trying to paint yourself as unique, you need to focus on “your character.” Two of my favorite Admissions quotes have to deal with essays.</p>

<p>

Colleges look for students who show initiative and passion. Those are the two mantras you should repeat to yourself over and over as you fill out your application. Think passion and intellectual depth. If there is one single area that admissions officers are looking for above all others, it is intellectual firepower. Though there are many valedictorians, there are few who show a deep and sincere love of learning. Those are the ones who are accepted most often into the most selective colleges.
– Acing The College Application by Michele A. Hernandez</p>

<p>If the admissions office door has four locks on it, the first two keys are test scores and school record, and the third is special talent or some other accomplishment or quality. What is the fourth key? It’s “character.” An old fashioned word, it means the way you develop your inner qualities: intellectual passion, maturity, social conscience, concern for community, tolerance, inclusiveness.
– What You Don’t Know Can Keep You Out Of College by Don Dunbar

</p>

<p>With those quotes in mind, you should pick a story from your life and write about how a personal event changed the way you think about something, or changed your values, or propelled you to be the person you are today.</p>