On our last episode of the Moments that Matter podcast, I had a chance to sit down with Paige Cisneros, the owner of Cisneros College Consulting, an independent education consultant, to delve into the world of college essays and uncover the secrets to crafting a compelling and authentic personal statement essay that stands out to admissions committees.
In my own experience, I know that college essays are often dreaded by students. Paige emphasizes that personal statement essays are one part of the holistic college application process and that they provide a unique opportunity for students to showcase their personality, values, and character beyond mere academic achievements. Personal statement essays serve as an "interview on paper," allowing schools to get to know applicants on a deeper level.
Paige highlights the importance of brainstorming as the initial step in crafting a standout personal statement. While many students struggle with where to begin, she suggests exploring various brainstorming exercises and prompts to uncover personal stories and experiences that reflect individuality. This process helps students identify the values and qualities they want to convey in their essays.
Paige emphasizes that the personal statement essay should be more than just an academic paper. It should reflect the student's authentic voice and story. Students should aim to engage the reader from the very beginning with a compelling opening sentence that draws the reader into their narrative. Paige encourages students to tell a conversational story that highlights their values, morals, and personal growth.
While many students may focus primarily on the personal statement essay, we also discussed the importance of supplemental essays, which are often specific to individual colleges or programs. Paige underscored the importance of tailoring these essays to address what makes the specific school or major appealing to the student. Reusing parts of essays can be effective, but students must be cautious to ensure that each essay addresses the unique prompts and requirements of each application.
Paige suggests that students identify three core values that define them and align with the qualities they wish to convey to colleges. These values should be reflected throughout their essays. Additionally, students should research each school's programs, offerings, and values to ensure that they can articulate why they are a great fit for the institution. Highlighting specific attributes and opportunities at the school reinforces the student's enthusiasm and engagement with the institution.
In conclusion, crafting a compelling college essay is a vital step in the admissions process. By embracing the brainstorming process, telling personal stories, aligning with core values, and showcasing fit with specific institutions, students can create essays that stand out and genuinely reflect who they are. With the guidance of experts like Paige Cisneros and a commitment to authenticity, students can confidently embark on their college application journey armed with a captivating narrative.
You can listen to the full episode now It's a college essay matter.
