The college application process is an intricate maze of transcripts, test scores, extracurricular profiles, and of course, one of the most important components of the application - essays! We call them one of the most important components because they serve as a unique opportunity for you to showcase your personality, passion, and perspective to the admissions committee beyond just numbers and scores.
Crafting a memorable, likable essay can sometimes be the key to your dream school's acceptance. Speaking of memorable essays, there's a fascinating story about a girl who got admitted to Yale University after writing an essay about Papa John's pizza.
The story is that of Carolina Williams who gained admission to Yale by writing about Papa John's Pizza. In her essay, she shared a humorous and personal story about her love for Papa John's pizza and how it had been a constant presence in her life. By combining her personal narrative with an appreciation for the simplicity and comfort of pizza, she demonstrated her ability to find joy in everyday experiences and a willingness to embrace the quirks of her life.
As opposed to the common notion of having to write about some accomplishment or important, extravagant things, she picked her everyday experience and the joy it brought her. Her essay did not rely on extravagant achievements or exotic adventures talking about life. Instead, it was relatable, endearing, and humorous. The admissions officers at Yale recognized her ability to take an ordinary story and infuse it with charm, wit, and a distinct perspective. She was admitted to Yale, with handwritten notes and remarks from the admissions officers directly.
"As a fellow lover of pizza, I laughed out loud (then ordered pizza) after reading your application," read one note to Williams from Yale's admissions team, while another read, "I laughed so hard on your pizza essay. I kept thinking that you are the kind of person that I would love to be best friends with."
Carolina's essay and acceptance to Yale is a testament to the fact that being likable in your college essays often involves presenting yourself as someone others would want to get to know better. She found a unique angle that showcased her creativity and personality. Remember that admissions officers read thousands of essays, and many of them tend to be quite similar. So, finding an uncommon perspective or story to tell can set you apart from the crowd.
When you apply to college, your academic achievements and extracurriculars are just one part of the application. Admissions officers are not just looking for exceptional students; they're looking for students who will contribute to their campus culture positively and bring personality. To stand out in a sea of other applicants who are just as academically sound, essays provide you with the best opportunity to stand out.
While not every applicant will have a quirky pizza essay that leads to Ivy League admission, the story is a reminder that authenticity, a unique perspective, and the ability to be likable can significantly impact your college application. Ultimately, it's not just about impressing the admissions officers with your accomplishments but also about connecting with them on a personal level. Share your authentic voice, be your genuine self, and don't be afraid to infuse your essay with your uniqueness.
If you’re looking to apply to international universities or exploring overseas higher education options, The Headmaster Consulting can help you narrow your selection while keeping track of your requirements for your financial needs while tracking overseas education options. If you want personalized roadmaps to your dream universities, get in touch with our consultants to help you build your profile and applications.
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