What if somebody doesn't like my cause? Or religion? Or hobby? Or nationality? Or height?
I can't believe how many times clients have said to me, "But
what if the adcom doesn't like _________ [fill-in-the-blank: tennis
players, Iranians, Christians, Republicans, other].
I'll tell you something. I can guarantee that somebody
somewhere won't like something that is important to you. Does that mean
you shouldn't write about it?
No.
Except for criminal pursuits, your distinctive interests,
special experiences, and background distinguish you from your
competition. Those singular passions tell the admissions committees
that you can contribute a unique perspective to your class. Leaving out
those exceptional elements from your essay and application may mean
that you don't trigger a mildly negative reaction in a few individuals
who "don't like" whatever it is you are writing about. The omission
will also ensure that your essay(s), personality, and individual
viewpoint blur into the great, gray mass of blob-like applicants. Far
more damaging. Completely counter-productive.
Bring out your distinct values, causes, and motivations by
discussing your initiatives and accomplishments in different arenas. I
do, however, have one caveat: No soapboxes please. Don't preach to the
adcoms. Liked this tip? The above tip and many, many more can be found
in Submit a Stellar Application: 42 Terrific Tips to Help You Get
Accepted.
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About The Author
Linda Abraham, Accepted.com's
founder and president, has helped thousands of applicants develop
successful admissions strategies and craft distinctive essays. In
addition to advising clients and managing Accepted.com,
she has written and lectured extensively on admissions. The Wall St.
Journal, The New York Times, and BusinessWeek are among the
publications that have sought Linda's expertise.
Reprint of this article is only permitted when reprinted in its entirety with the above bio.
onlinesupport@accepted.com
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This article was posted on January 31, 2005
