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Over the past decade as an English teacher and college essay counselor, I have heard many of the same questions and concerns about writing college essays. I hope the lists below reassure you that you are not alone:
Common Questions
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Students’ Questions
Do I need to write new essays for each school?
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What if I don’t have anything to write about?
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How much outside input should I seek?
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Do I have to show my parents my essays?
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Do I need a fancy opener?
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Are there “good” and “bad” topics?
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How personal is too personal?
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Are topics involving sex, drugs and alcohol off limits?
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Does my essay have to be upbeat?
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How creative can I be?
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Do I need a five-paragraph “standard essay” format?
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Should the Common Application essay be about a different topic than the supplemental essays?
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How rigid is the Common Application essay’s 650-word limit?
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What length is considered too short?
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Is it necessary to answer the supplemental essays?
Parents’ Questions
How best can I support my child?
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How involved should I be with picking essay topics?
Is it a good idea for me to participate in consulting sessions?
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How many people should “weigh in” on the essays?
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Will my child work directly with you?
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How much time will this take (i.e., when should we start the process?)
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How many students do you work with at the same time?
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Will my child’s voice still emerge from this process?
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Should I also get my child interviewing and resume help?
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When is the best time to start the writing/consulting process?
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How important are the essays in the admission process?
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Can you help students not only with their Common Application essay but with their writing in general?