Essay Questions Anyone?

Writing assignments for school take time. However, over the years, students slowly learn shortcuts, effective pre-writing strategies, and how to really edit a paper. Although these skills are essential to master, writing an essay for college differs from writing a research paper for history class. It must be genuine; it must be personal; it must inform the admissions representative about who you are. Yet, try not to stress out. Each person is unique and because of that each person is inherently interesting. Breathe and take time to think. Reach out to the guidance department, garner feedback, and then begin.  It will get done.  It always gets done; but, it should get done purposefully, thoroughly, and thoughtfully.




Below is the list of essay options for the Common Application this year. 


1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
 
2. The lessons we take from failure can be fundamental to later success. Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
 
3. Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea.  What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again?
 
4. Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma-anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.
 
5. Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.