 Last week, I reported a terrible Common App bug: for some reason, the last paragraph of essays are not always getting pasted over into the application. So, if you're not careful, your essay will just sort of end.
This week, I return with another unfortunate bug to report: Sometimes (but not every time), when you put an ellipsis in your essay... ... It gets pasted into the application as a single period.
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 My students often ask me if it's "worth" applying to Stanford (or Harvard, or Princeton, or any other school with a sub-10% acceptance rate). Although that's kind of like asking if it's worth voting in the general election, I still say yes.
 I know from experience (SO much experience!) how much time, effort and soul students put into writing their college essays. And my favorite part of running Paved With Verbs is watching the way students' essays evolve over weeks of work.
Which is why I'm warning you now: There is a terrible bug in the common app that could make all your hard work... be for nothing.  Paved With Verbs offers college essay help and life coaching/mentorship services. It's definitely the coolest and most meaningful work I've ever done.
I've had the opportunity to work with countless amazing students. They're all fantastic! But. I've noticed two recurring problems that a lot of them struggle with: I recently published How to Write Your USC Short Answers, and have received great feedback and follow-up questions. And, because the University of North Carolina (Go Tar Heels!) has a similar section on their application, I thought I'd walk prospective applicants through my brainstorming process. The UNC-Chapel Hill application asks for both a 400-500 word supplemental essay: "In addition to the essay you provided with your Common Application, please choose one of the prompts below and respond in an essay of 400-500 words. And your 10-word (or less) answer to the following questions: 1. Biggest little worry:
The University of Southern California is a fantastic, private institution in Los Angeles, CA. Known for its great film, business, journalism and sports programs (and, obviously, their marching band :P), it is a great choice for students who dig a large, urban campus.
As a college essay coach, I have helped several students successfully apply to USC. And one section of the writing supplement that never fails to stump, stress and confuse students... is the super short answer.
Basically, in addition to two 250-word supplements: USC students are known to be involved. Briefly describe a non-academic pursuit (such as service to community or family, a club or sport, or work, etc.,) that best illustrates who you are, and why it is important to you (250 word limit). Describe your academic interests and how you plan to pursue them at USC. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections (250 word limit).
USC wants you to tell them, in about 15 words or less:
Describe yourself in three words: |
AuthorEva Glasrud completed her B.A. and M.A. at Stanford. She is now a college counselor and life coach for gifted youth. Archives
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