Many college applications require a personal essay ... put unnecessary weight on it as part of their college application. While a strong essay helps, he says, it doesn't make or break an application.

Students dread the application essay. Critics think it's an exercise in fakery. Here’s why it’s worth preserving — and how to ...

Many students write about empathy, compassion and resilience. Amy Addams, director of student affairs alignment and holistic ...

Note that your other application essays may have a different tone than your personal statement. For instance, an addendum is usually not the place for a casual, offbeat story. Striking the right ...