What are some strong vocabulary words to use in my college essays?

You're right that a strong vocabulary can make an essay feel polished, but it's so important your words feel natural and authentic to you. Admission readers want to hear your voice, not someone trying to sound older than they are!

Instead of packing your essay with super advanced words, try focusing on verbs and specific, vivid language. Words like "illuminated," "cultivated," "navigated," "transformed," or "ignited" often read as both mature and clear. Descriptive but not over-the-top adjectives like "resilient," "meticulous," "formative," "poignant," or "nuanced" can elevate your writing without making it sound stiff.

An example: Instead of saying, "I was really involved in my school community," you might write, "I immersed myself in cultivating a more inclusive school community." Or, swap "I worked with others" for "I collaborated with peers to spearhead a recycling initiative." See how these verbs and adjectives add strength but don't sound forced?

Try to avoid frequently misused words or ones that stand out as trying too hard. If you wouldn't use "copacetic" or "perspicacious" in real life, skip them. Remember, it's more about clarity and impact than showing off. Sometimes simple but precise language is most impressive. When in doubt, read your sentences out loud—a good essay should sound like you at your sharpest, not like a Victorian novel.

One trick: after writing a draft, circle all the adjectives and verbs. Swap out a few for more specific, vivid choices (not just longer synonyms), and ask a friend if any words seem out of place. The right word used well is always better than the fanciest word from a thesaurus.

Keep polishing and let your personality shine through your writing style!