Commonapp announced late, so should I wait to begin essay drafts?
Navigating the Ever-Evolving College Application Essay Prompts
Every year, typically in February, the Common App announces updates to its college application essay prompts for the upcoming fall. CounselMore updates all application requirements including essay prompts year round.
Check the date of any cell in CounselMore by clicking on the cell, it will be date stamped. While this update method might seem like a reason to delay helping your students start their essays, it shouldn't be. Historically, the essay questions rarely change significantly. Furthermore, the broad nature of these prompts ensures there is always one that can align with any student's story.
The primary focus should be on capturing the student’s muse and getting them started with the writing process. College application essays differ greatly from typical high school essays, making it crucial to have students engage in free writing exercises. Encourage them to recall and weave in important aspects of their lives, as the essay serves as the glue holding the entire application together.
Instead of waiting for the new prompts, help students identify key areas of their lives they want to write about. Once the essay is complete, it can always be mapped back to one of the Common App questions. These prompts are designed to be broad enough to accommodate a wide range of topics. After drafting, review the essay to ensure it directly answers one of the prompts. Minor edits can always be made to align the essay more closely with the chosen question.
Additionally, it's essential to review the entire application for any inconsistencies or potential questions that might arise. Use the essay to address and explain any conflicts in the information presented. If admissions reviewers have more questions than answers after reading an application, it diminishes the chances of an easy acceptance. A well-crafted essay can preemptively address these concerns and provide a cohesive narrative.
In conclusion, don't wait for the essay prompts to be updated. Utilize the available time to get students writing. The writing process can be daunting, but it becomes easier with practice. Start now and focus on helping students craft compelling, personal stories that will make their applications stand out.