What's the best way to get feedback on my college admissions essay?

Getting feedback on your college admissions essay is super valuable, but it’s definitely a balancing act to make sure your unique voice remains front and center. One strong approach is to get a mix of feedback from different perspectives, but limit the total number of reviewers to avoid conflicting or overwhelming advice. Usually, two to three people is the sweet spot.

Your English teacher is a great option, especially if you have one who knows you well and understands the college essay style is personal, not a literary analysis. Teachers can help spot grammar mistakes and suggest structure improvements without totally rewriting your story. You can even prep them by asking for big-picture feedback—did your essay feel genuine and clear—rather than nitpicking every comma.

Family members can provide insight into whether your personality shines through the essay, but be mindful: families sometimes want to protect or promote, so they might try to make you sound more impressive or "safe" than authentic. Choose a family member who encourages you to be yourself and who understands what colleges are looking for isn’t perfection but a real sense of who you are.

Peer feedback can also be helpful, especially if you ask a friend who knows your quirks and strengths. Often, peers can point out clichés or spots where you’re not sounding like yourself. For example, one student realized her opening paragraph was missing her trademark humor after a friend mentioned, “This doesn’t sound like something you’d ever say.”

Professional editing services can be worth it if you want truly expert feedback, especially if you don’t have much support at school. Look for services that focus on preserving your unique voice and don't rely on "ghostwriting" or drastic rewrites. Reputable services give you constructive suggestions and keep the essay authentically yours. If you do use a professional service, always review changes to make sure it still sounds like you. Trust your gut—if the edits start making it feel like it’s written by someone else, pull back.

Ultimately, gather some feedback, let it sit, and then revise with your own vision in mind. The goal is for your essay to sound natural—like you, but at your best. And remember, conflicting advice is normal. Use what resonates, and set aside suggestions that feel off. Sometimes, after all the edits, reading your essay out loud to yourself helps spot anything that doesn’t sound right.

You’re definitely not alone in feeling stressed—the key is to filter feedback through your own instincts, so you stay true to yourself while putting your best foot forward.