Q & A 

Why does this process seem so daunting?

 

In 650 words or less, please explain what makes you a likable and quality individual worthy of a coveted space at our institution. Your answer should be original and authentic; demonstrate commitment, creativity, leadership, and excellence; and exemplify top-notch writing skills. Additional attention will be paid for pithy wordsmithery and an artful turn of phrase.

 

Yikes!

 

What does this process truly entail?

 

Mostly thinking - about what makes you uncomfortable, how you like to spend your free time, what cracks you up, why you feel strongly about certain things, etc.

 

Considerable writing - to express the thinking (see above)

 

Substantial re-writing and editing - to ensure you have communicated your story accurately and effectively

 

Proofreading – so your essay shines

 

When should I start? 

​

Now! Begin by thinking. In what spaces and communities do you feel most comfortable? What subject would you like to teach and why? How would your closest friends describe you? What are some of your favorite memories and experiences?

 

Talk to people close to you whom you respect, and use them as a mirror to reflect the qualities they see. Brainstorm ideas. Make notes. Put the notes aside for a few days, then go back and determine which ideas still resonate with you. Think some more. 

​

What essay topics seem to work well?

​

Great essay topics are usually the ones that feature an event, story, feeling, and/or perspective that is meaningful to you. No subjects are "better" than others. How you treat the matter in your writing is what's important. Why? Because the real topic of the personal essay is YOU.

 

Do you have any advice for when I start to write?

​

Of course! Here are just a few tips: 

​

1. When you are ready to start writing, concentrate on getting your ideas down on paper or screen. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling or sentence structure or length. There will be plenty of time later to reorganize. That part becomes easier to tackle once you have all your thoughts in one place. 

2. Be specific! It's easier to write (and more meaningful to read) about big ideas through a small lens.

3. Answer the question. This one seems obvious, but you might be surprised how many students don't do it.

4. Once you have a first draft, read it aloud. See how it sounds. Many times, this exercise highlights where you need to insert additional details or remove extraneous information.

​

How can I get some help? 

​

Contact me, and we will set up a time to talk. Initial consultations are free of charge.