Is attending a college application essay workshop worth it?

Essay workshops can be pretty valuable, especially if you’re feeling anxious or uncertain about where to start. The main benefit of a workshop is the structure: you’ll usually get clear steps on brainstorming, outlining, and revising, as well as tips on what admissions officers look for. Most workshops also provide feedback from someone experienced (like a counselor, teacher, or essay coach), which can help you spot areas to improve that you might have missed yourself.

If your high school offers one, it’s usually free or low-cost and you’ll be working with teachers who know you or the college process well. A workshop can give you deadlines and accountability, so you’re less likely to procrastinate. You may also get to hear other students’ essays and the feedback they receive, which can spark ideas or help you avoid common mistakes. For instance, I attended a school-based essay workshop and got feedback from both my peers and an English teacher, which helped me cut out clichés I hadn’t noticed and push my story in a more unique direction.

Private or paid workshops can be helpful too, especially if you want more individualized attention. Just be wary of ones that are really expensive but don’t offer personalized feedback.

Working on your essay by yourself—or just with one teacher—definitely works for some students, particularly if you’re disciplined and comfortable seeking feedback. If you already have a strong idea, enjoy writing, and have access to someone with college essay know-how, self-guided might be enough.

If you’re not sure where to start or just want more support, attending at least one workshop could be worth it. It doesn't lock you in; you can go, get some feedback, and then decide if you want to continue solo or seek more help.