2. Importance of the Essay • KEY to the college application • Set yourself apart • Exhibit your writing skills • Demonstrate your independent thinking Make the college say……… “I want to meet this student.”

3. Common Essay Types You have just completed your 300 page autobiography. Please submit page 217. (University of Pennsylvania) What you do in the classroom defines only a part of who you are. How do you spend your time when you are not in class or studying? Focus on one activity, two at the most, and discuss what you have gained from you involvement. (University of California) Tell us about the best conversation you’ve ever had. (Pitzer College) Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you. (common application)

4. Common Essay Types Reflecting on your family’s experiences and personal circumstances, what would you like to tell us that is not already revealed or explained sufficiently in your application? (University of California) Do you believe there is a generation gap? Describe the difference between your generation and others. (Denison College) Indicate a person who has had significant influence on you and describe that influence. (common application)

5. Topics are meant to be challenging The essay is weighed more heavily with more prestigious colleges Importance of the Essay

6. Exercise • Create a list of: • Your Personality Traits • Your Experiences • Your Values • People who have influenced you • And think about how they have contributed to your growth.

7. Tips • -Be objective • -Stay away from negative essays • -Make sure all strong opinions are backed by a strong argument • -Present all sides of an issue • -REVISE!

8. Resources • 100 Successful College Application Essays -by Christopher & Gigi Georges • Writing a Successful College Application Essay- by George Ehrenhaft • The College Application Essay – by Sarah Myers McGinty • On Writing the College Application Essay – by Harry Bauld

9. Admission Process Apply Early!!!! - Watch for deadlines - Binding or non-binding?? VISIT!! Make Friends with your Admission Counselor…they can be your best friend!! • Scholarships

10. Documents • Letters of Recommendation • Ask weeks in advanced • High School Transcripts • Contact your registrar or counselor • ACT/SAT • Usually come on your transcripts but ask to make sure

11. Process • Visit • Events • Talent Contacts (Coaches; Directors) • Scholarship Search

12. Questions?Thanks! And good luck! Rachel Blood • Admission Counselor • The College of Idaho • rblood@collegeofidaho.edu • 208.459.5317