I have been reading college applicant's essay's or personal statements for quite some time. The Common Application, which most student's use as a portal changed its topics after many decades. The earlier question's were very straightforward, asking about person's that influenced you, and a topic of your choice. The new topics require more critical thinking, but are basically similar. One that has caught the eye of students is a place where they are content. (Many students now prepare these essay's in English classes and receive grades-which I find questionable. Another topic the efficacy of writing a personal statement for a class assignment.) What I am beginning to read on the contentment topic are some statements full of far too many cliche's: birds chirping, sound of a brook. I would rather read about contentment sitting on the toilet, reading a forbidden book or magazine. Imagination and creativity goes out the window when succumbing to what you think someone wants to read. Ditto goes for an essay about saving the world after spending several with an expensive summer service program.
Good essay's start with introspection taking time to share what is truly meaningful. What is it that makes you tick and it does not have to be a thesis? A very simple statement carefully constructed can be more effective then endless platitudes. Several days ago a former parent checked in with me and we discussed her three children all of whom I worked with. Two have successfully launched careers, and the third is on the way. All three wrote vastly different essays one was journalistic, another service oriented,and the third metaphoric. Each topic came from their heart. I hope that I can reach some kids and get them on track--pretty difficult task after they have been affirmatively graded---and please.. stop with the birds....
