Where can I find reliable help for my college application essay?
I’m starting to work on my personal statement for college apps, and honestly, I’m not sure if I’m on the right track. I’ve drafted a couple of ideas, but they don’t feel that interesting or unique. I’ve read a bunch of advice online but sometimes it’s kind of vague or seems like it’s for people with super dramatic stories.
Are there specific resources, websites, or maybe organizations that are good for giving feedback on essays? I’d be really grateful if anyone could share their experiences or recommendations, especially for free or lower-cost options. My school counselor is super busy so I can’t always get a lot of one-on-one help. Would love any suggestions for how to make my essay stand out.
Are there specific resources, websites, or maybe organizations that are good for giving feedback on essays? I’d be really grateful if anyone could share their experiences or recommendations, especially for free or lower-cost options. My school counselor is super busy so I can’t always get a lot of one-on-one help. Would love any suggestions for how to make my essay stand out.
4 months ago
•
12 views
Camille Luong
• 4 months ago
Advisor
It’s totally normal to feel uncertain about your personal statement, especially with so much advice floating around online. Since school counselors are often stretched thin, looking elsewhere for reliable essay feedback is a smart move. Here are a few options you can try out, many of which are free or affordable:
1. Teachers and Trusted Adults: English teachers are great resources for essays since they understand what makes writing engaging and clear. If you have a teacher you trust, don’t hesitate to ask if they can review your draft or even just help brainstorm.
2. School Writing Centers: Some high schools have writing or resource centers with peer tutors who can provide helpful feedback. These students are usually trained to give constructive comments but often have a more relaxed approach than teachers.
3. Library and Community Programs: Many libraries host free college essay workshops in the summer and fall. Check their bulletin boards or website. Sometimes local college access organizations run essay boot camps or drop-in review days as well.
4. Online Review Platforms: There are reputable services and forums dedicated to giving feedback. For instance, websites run by college access nonprofits often offer free essay review by volunteers or college students. An example: the College Essay Guy website has great structured guides and often hosts free webinars that walk you through the brainstorming and writing process using real examples.
As for making your essay unique, remember you don’t need to have survived something dramatic. Focusing on one memorable experience or a small moment that reveals something about who you are is often more effective than trying to be impressive. For example, instead of summarizing your entire soccer season, maybe describe the funny, awkward team ritual you started and how it reflects your leadership style.
Lastly, consider exchanging essays with a friend. Sometimes, peers can spot what’s interesting about your story—even if you can’t. If you want more structured support, look for services specifically dedicated to essay review, especially those with a track record of working with students from many backgrounds.
If you keep drafts open and ask for feedback, you’ll find your essay’s direction soon. Just remember: your authentic voice is what colleges are really after.
1. Teachers and Trusted Adults: English teachers are great resources for essays since they understand what makes writing engaging and clear. If you have a teacher you trust, don’t hesitate to ask if they can review your draft or even just help brainstorm.
2. School Writing Centers: Some high schools have writing or resource centers with peer tutors who can provide helpful feedback. These students are usually trained to give constructive comments but often have a more relaxed approach than teachers.
3. Library and Community Programs: Many libraries host free college essay workshops in the summer and fall. Check their bulletin boards or website. Sometimes local college access organizations run essay boot camps or drop-in review days as well.
4. Online Review Platforms: There are reputable services and forums dedicated to giving feedback. For instance, websites run by college access nonprofits often offer free essay review by volunteers or college students. An example: the College Essay Guy website has great structured guides and often hosts free webinars that walk you through the brainstorming and writing process using real examples.
As for making your essay unique, remember you don’t need to have survived something dramatic. Focusing on one memorable experience or a small moment that reveals something about who you are is often more effective than trying to be impressive. For example, instead of summarizing your entire soccer season, maybe describe the funny, awkward team ritual you started and how it reflects your leadership style.
Lastly, consider exchanging essays with a friend. Sometimes, peers can spot what’s interesting about your story—even if you can’t. If you want more structured support, look for services specifically dedicated to essay review, especially those with a track record of working with students from many backgrounds.
If you keep drafts open and ask for feedback, you’ll find your essay’s direction soon. Just remember: your authentic voice is what colleges are really after.
Related Questions
Students also ask…
Camille Luong
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
Rating
5.0 (5 reviews)