It is the time of year in my practice when high school seniors and their parents are feeling the pressure of the upcoming deadlines for college admission applications. The college application can become a battleground between parent and child. From the beginning of July through mid November tension builds, doors slam, and anxiety heightens. Considering how competitive college admissions are and the high cost of college tuition, it is understandable that families find this time very stressful.
Having experienced this process with my own children, I can appreciate how anxiety-provoking this can be for families. Unfortunately, feeling anxious does not make the process any easier. Parents who are used to thinking they could control their child’s destiny are now faced with the reality that, for the most part, they are powerless in the college application process. Yes, there are a few who can donate a building wing or have “connections” but the truth is most students have to go it on their own.
Several years ago, I was asked by a publishing company to co-author a book about how to write a winning college essay. I spent many hours combing through books that were on the market, comparing the similarities and differences between them and their recommendations. Using the different approaches and suggestions recommended in the books, I worked with students to develop a unique approach to writing a successful essay.
One of the most difficult tasks in completing the college application process is writing a winning essay. Some students do it without coaxing or procrastinating but many students find this task daunting. The college essay should be considered a gift to each college applicant; the essay will give each student the opportunity to directly communicate with the board of admissions. Yes, you have your SAT scores, grade point average and extracurricular activities, but the truth is there are many students who have similar statistics. Only a handful will be accepted. One of the deciding factors will be your college essay. It could make the difference between you and another student applying to college.
In my next post, I will write about the results of my research and what I have found to be the most important ingredient in a winning college essay.
©2009 Wanda Behrens Horrell, All Rights Reserved
www.wandabehrenshorrell.com
