College Admissions & the Essay
Why is the Essay Important?
The essay and supplemental questions are carrying increasing weight in the college application process, with increasing numbers of schools going test-optional or even test-blind. The Covid-19 pandemic, with resulting disruptions to testing and its significant impact on students’ lives, has accelerated the move away from considering test scores and toward more holistic evaluation of applications.
“The essay is monumentally important. It is your chance to get a college to know you beyond numbers. Remember, we’ll see your transcripts and recommendation letters. Here you can describe — in your own voice — your goals, passions and experiences like no one else.” — Gariot Louima, vice president for enrollment and student success, Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio.
What Does the Essay Do?
Your college application essay gives admissions officers a look into your personality, strengths, and interests. It offers them an idea of what you might contribute to their campus community and what you bring to their school.
If you have faced particular challenges that have affected academics or extracurricular activities, the essay is a place to illustrate those challenges so admissions officers have a better understanding of your circumstances and experiences.