8 Common App Essay Tips to Level Up Your Personal Statement

In this video, I talk about my top eight methods for improving a common application essay. Writing college essays can be challenging, and this video will help you develop an essay that truly shares who you are with college admissions committees at your dream colleges.

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00:55 - Tip 1: Use anecdotes with vivid descriptive details
03:38 - Tip 2: Consider expanding the focus
05:37 - Tip 3: Focus on key moments
07:47 - Tip 4: Overhaul the introduction
10:00 - Tip 5: Experiment with chronology
11:22 - Tip 6: Include a storytelling arc with an "aha" moment
12:46 - Tip 7: Focus on a small, personal "aha" moment
14:43 - Tip 8: Experiment with form

Need more help? I offer a range of college application services including hourly consultations and essay packages. For more info, contact me at [email protected] or visit my website, lodestarcollegecounseling.com.

About me:
Hi, my name is Maia Krause! I am a graduate of Stanford University with an M.A. and Ph.D. in English from UC Irvine and a Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA. I have been working with high school students on the college admissions process for over ten years.