How to Write a Stellar Common App Additional Information Essay: Examples Included

Introduction

As a college application essay, the Common App Additional Information Essay is your opportunity to provide admissions officers with more information about your background, achievements, and personal circumstances that may have affected your academic performance or extracurricular activities. However, with a limited word count of 650 words, it can be challenging to decide what to include and what to leave out. This article will provide you with tips and examples to help you write a Stellar Common App Additional Information Essay.

Plan Your Essay Carefully

Before you start writing, take the time to plan your essay carefully. Start by brainstorming all the topics you could include in your essay, then choose the ones that would help you stand out from other applicants. You could include:

– Personal circumstances that have affected your academic performance
– Extracurricular activities that aren’t well-covered elsewhere on your application
– Awards or recognitions that aren’t well-explained elsewhere on your application
– Work experience or internships that have helped shape your interests.

Choose Your Topics Wisely

Once you have chosen your topics, make sure to choose the ones that show your strengths and reveal your unique qualities. For example, if you want to explain why you have lower grades in a certain semester, you could discuss the challenges you faced during that time and how you overcame them. This would show your resilience and problem-solving skills. Alternatively, if you want to describe your work experience, you could discuss the skills you learned and how they relate to your intended major or career goals.

Use Clear and Concise Language

When writing your essay, make sure to use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or complicated language unless it’s necessary for the topic. Use concrete examples and case studies to illustrate your points. If your examples are well-chosen, they will help admissions officers understand more about you and your achievements.

Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure

Your essay should be structured with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Make sure to provide a context in your introduction that sets the tone and arouses curiosity. Your body should contain well-researched facts and insights that support your points. Use subheadings to break the content into digestible chunks. Finally, your conclusion should summarize your key takeaways.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Common App Additional Information Essay is your chance to show admissions officers more about you and your achievements. By planning your essay carefully, choosing your topics wisely, using clear and concise language, and providing a clear structure, you can write a Stellar Common App Additional Information Essay that will help you stand out from other applicants. Remember, your essay should be a reflection of your unique voice and perspective. Good luck!