introduction for college admission essay

Whether it’s a supplemental essay, personal statement, Common App essay, or diversity essay, the essays below can help you better understand what can result from following a college essay format or applying tips for how to write a college essay to help you get into your dream school.

A personal statement—sometimes known as a college essay —is a brief written essay you submit with other materials when applying to college or university. Personal statements tend to be most common for undergraduate applications, and they're a great opportunity for an admissions committee to hear your voice directly.

The introduction of your college essay is the first thing admissions officers will read and therefore your most important opportunity to stand out. An excellent introduction will keep admissions officers reading, allowing you to tell them what you want them to know.

Writing a strong college admissions essay. Learn about the elements of a solid admissions essay. Avoiding common admissions essay mistakes. Learn some of the most common mistakes made on college essays. Brainstorming tips for your college essay. Stuck on what to write your college essay about? Here are some exercises to help you get started.

Updated: Apr 13, 2024. Reading some college essay introduction examples is a great place to start if you’re struggling to begin writing your college essay. The college essay is a significant hurdle for many college applicants but reading sample college essays can help inspire your writing.

What Is the College Essay Introduction For? Before we talk about how to start a college essay, let's discuss the role of the introduction. Just as your college essay is your chance to introduce yourself to the admissions office of your target college, your essay's beginning is your chance to introduce your writing.

Introduction to College Admission Essays. Make Your College Admission Essays Stand Out. Choose a Compelling Topic. Introduction to College Admission Essays. College admission essays comprise approximately 20% to 25% of the evaluation criteria for college applications.

Start with a memorable introduction. Write like an artist. Craft a strong conclusion. Revise and receive feedback. Frequently asked questions. Why do you need a standout essay?

December 14, 2021. HBR Staff/Getty Images/Bulgakova Kristina. Summary. How can you write an essay that helps advance you in the eyes of the admissions officers and makes a real impression? Here...

The introduction has to reveal to the reader what your essay is about and catch their attention. You could open with an anecdote or an interesting story that will show some of the best parts of your personality and character, offering an insight that will help the admission officers get to know who you are. 3. Use your inner voice.