Unorthodox Essay

College Essays
1

<p>I just wrote a very rough draft of one of my supplement essays. It’s for UMD College park, and the question is:</p>

<p>"The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” ‐ Aristotle
Diversity is one of our core values at the University of Maryland. In order to provide a stellar education and foster outstanding research, we embrace the intellectual, social and cultural differences that are integral to the fabric of our community. The strength of the university is realized through the contributions of every member of our campus. Describe the parts that add up to the sum of you.</p>

<p>I’ve checked out some samples, and the direction I went with this essay is waaaay different than most. I’m not sure if this is a good thing, or if I should re-write it.</p>

<p>I’d be very appreciative if anyone (preferably parents and college students) could take a look at it.</p>

<p>Also, UMD says these essays “should be no more than 300 words”, which is hard to work around. As of right now, I think my essay is around 320 words.</p>

2

<p>I can look at it if you need! :)</p>

3

<p>If the guidelines say “no more than 300 words,” then follow them. If you don’t follow the directions for the essay length, it communicates to the admissions committee that you are incapable of following directions. Not a good way to start off your academic career.
Since you didn’t post a sample of your essay, it’s too hard to say anything meaningful. “Unorthodox” is OK, so long as you are actually writing about something related to “diversity.” For example, experiences with your family, friends, coworkers, etc. Or your own background. If you are so off-topic that you really aren’t writing about diversity, then you failed. Remember what they mean by diversity in the first place: socioeconomic, racial/ethnic, cultural differences (groups of people). How diversity makes us into something more, as a nation, as an individual, whatever. Don’t try too hard, because over-the-top language and straining to write something always looks bad.</p>

4

<p>I’d be happy to take a look</p>