What is an Essay?

What is an Essay?

You have the opportunity to tell your story in an essay or a personal statement. The decision the Admissions Office has to make is about more than just your grades and extracurricular activities. They want to know about your interests, your values and your character.

An essay/personal statement is therefore an opportunity for the Admissions Office to get a better picture of who you are and what you have to offer. It is often the most personal component of the application and goes beyond grades and standardized test scores. The essays usually contain open-ended assignments that allow you to demonstrate your writing skills and make a personal statement. There are usually several topics from which you can choose one.

You usually have a relatively wide scope for the content of your essay; it is important that it is clear why you are interested in studying at the respective college, why you see added value for yourself and your future and why the university should accept you.

Of course, you can also talk about the sport you play. It is important that a common thread can be recognized, that there are clear theses (not too many) and a clear conclusion. You can also write about a specific topic and then build a bridge to university at the end.

Important information:

  1. Length: approx. 400-600 words (may be specified)
  2. Language: English

Hint:
You can find good examples of essays on this page from Hopkins University.

    • Related Articles

    • Filling out the Common app

      The Common app is an online application that multiple universities use. Via the Common app you can apply to many different colleges at the same time. But even if you have already decided on a university, it may be that this university does not offer ...
    • What is a letter of recommendation?

      Many universities require at least one letter of recommendation with the application. A letter of recommendation is a written document with a positive recommendation about you or your sport in English. Your teacher or coach can write this document ...