5 Tips for Writing Additional Information on the Common App

5 Tips for Writing Additional Information on the Common App

As high school students prepare to embark on their college journeys, completing the Common Application is a crucial step in the process. The Common App is an online application used by hundreds of colleges and universities in the United States to streamline the college admissions process. One of the key components of the application is the Additional Information section, where students can provide more context and details about their achievements, challenges, and interests. However, many students struggle with how to effectively write this section to showcase their personality and uniqueness. In this article, we will provide 5 tips for writing additional information on the Common App that will help you stand out from the crowd.

1. Be Clear and Specific

The Additional Information section provides you with 650 words to communicate anything that you feel is important for the admissions committee to know. However, it is important to keep in mind that the committee reads thousands of applications, so being clear and specific will help you stand out. Instead of writing a vague paragraph about how you helped your community, provide specific examples that demonstrate your impact. For example, instead of writing “I volunteered at a local food bank,” you could write “I volunteered at the Food Bank of XYZ for 2 hours every Saturday for 6 months and helped distribute meals to over 100 families in need.”

2. Use Your Voice

Admissions committees want to get to know the real you, so use your own voice and personality to convey your message. Don’t feel like you have to write in a formal or academic style, as that can make your writing sound generic or impersonal. Write in a tone that feels authentic to you, incorporating your own experiences, thoughts, and feelings. However, be mindful of using appropriate language and tone, as you still want to present yourself in a professional and mature manner.

3. Focus on Relevance

When writing your Additional Information section, it can be tempting to include every achievement or experience you’ve had. However, it’s important to focus on relevance to the college and your intended major. Admissions committees are looking for students who are passionate about the field they plan to study, so use this section to provide additional insights into your interests and experiences in your chosen field. For example, if you plan to study computer science, you could write about a coding project you worked on outside of school, or a programming competition you participated in.

4. Use Examples and Evidence

While it’s important to speak highly of yourself and your achievements, it’s even more effective to use examples and evidence to back up your claims. Instead of writing “I am a strong leader,” demonstrate your leadership skills by describing a time when you led a group project or organized an event. This creates a more compelling and memorable narrative for the admissions committee.

5. Be Honest and Authentic

Lastly, it’s crucial to be honest and authentic when writing your Additional Information section. Don’t exaggerate or fabricate your experiences or achievements, as this can come across as insincere or dishonest. Admissions committees value authenticity and integrity, so write from your heart and be truthful about who you are and what you have accomplished.

In summary, writing the Additional Information section of the Common App is a chance to show admissions committees who you are beyond your transcripts and test scores. By following these 5 tips, you can effectively communicate your unique story and experiences, while also demonstrating your passion and relevance for your chosen field of study. Remember to be clear, use your voice, focus on relevance, use examples and evidence, and be honest and authentic. Good luck!

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