Free Resources for Students & Parents

We talk to admissions officers all the time, and we’ve learned a lot about college essays! Here’s our chance to share that insight with you.

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There’s so much information about college essays out there, how can anyone, even a bright, talented student, tell the difference between what’s worth listening to and what’s not? That’s where Wow can help. 

We go straight to the source – college admissions officers – to find out what they’re looking for in application essays, and we’re excited to share what we know with you.

 

Expert Advice from the Wow Team

Since Wow opened in 2009, the answer to the question, What do admissions officers look for in a college essay? has not changed. The college essay has always offered an opportunity to show someone you may never meet just what kind of person you are.
In general, no matter what prompt you’re answering, your essay should be a story about you, focused on you.
As admission to the nation’s most selective schools becomes more and more competitive, the college essay has increased in significance as well. That means to gain admission to college today, it’s likely you will need to write at least one college essay—and probably more.
Here’s some insight from David Bersell, who has been with us for more than seven years, has worked with hundreds of students, trained countless IECs and school counselors, and supervises training for our team of coaches.
A standout college essay isn’t about shocking drama or the “perfect” story—it’s about theme. Your theme gives your essay focus, purpose, and power. It’s what turns a simple story into a meaningful statement that captures who you are.

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