A Guide to Writing College Admissions Essays: Practical Advice for Students and Parents

A Guide to Writing College Admissions Essays provides practical advice and helpful suggestions for students writing their college admissions essays, primarily the 650-word Common App essay and supplementary essays that many schools require as part of their admission applications.With more students applying to college―and those students applying to more schools than ever before―college admission selection is far more competitive than in the past and the college essay is a key component.

A Guide to Writing College Admissions Essays offers suggestions on good topics to write about without getting too specific (and just as importantly, what not to write about) and vital tips on writing approach, grammar, and usage. If used properly, this book will help applicants find their creative voice and craft a readable, interesting, and unique essay that will attract the college admissions reader. It just might make a difference in the final admission process.

Suzanne Franklin is a college counselor with more than 20 years of experience helping students with their choice of school (everywhere from community college to the Ivy League).

Cory Franklin is an intensive care physician turned essayist who has published four books.

Linda Black is a college counselor with more than 20 years of experience helping students with their choice of school (everywhere from community college to the Ivy League).

Paul Weingarten is a former senior member of the Chicago Tribune editorial board.