College Essay Prep

Some colleges require that you submit an essay(s) as part of your application.

There are three types of essays that may be part of the application. You may be asked to complete one or all of these depending upon the College to which you are applying.

  1. Application Essay
    • A specific topic is assigned to the student to be discussed.
  2. Transfer Essay
    • You are asked to discuss your past educational experiences as well as your reasons for transferring.
  3. Personal Essay
    • You are asked to describe yourself. Your interests, talents, level of motivation, and desire for further education is examined. Some colleges give you the opportunity to be creative and allow such things as poetry etc.

Suggestions for Developing Your Essay

  • How would you positively describe yourself? What are your interests, skills, current hobbies, community activities, new developments in your life, etc.?
  • What choices of education and/or career are new for you and which are consistent with early interests, experiences and background?
  • What are your dreams and goals for the future? What life experiences have shaped these?
  • Share and describe how your choice of college is helping you achieve your goal.
  • Don’t be afraid to discuss goals you have already achieved and how they tie into your future plans.

Tips

  • Read directions carefully.
  • Be positive about yourself.
  • Always type essays unless otherwise specified.
  • Have your essay proofread by a faculty advisor or go to staff in the Writing Lab C-205 (Haverhill) or L-200(Lawrence).
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