Writing a college application essay is like answering the question "Tell me about yourself" at a job interview. Your college, like an employer, wants to know whether you're a good fit. Test scores, GPA, and class rank--while important--don't reveal much about your personality. This is where your essay comes in. Your essay reveals what's unique about you, how interested you really are in the college, and how well you write. The next four tips will help you craft your college essay.

Choosing a topic for your college admissions essay

Feeling overwhelmed? What can you possibly write about that showcases your personality and writing skills? And with a limit of only a couple of pages, if that?

Think about your passions, or think about what has shaped you into who you are today. Does any one particular experience characterizing it stand out? Describe it. Let's say you're a painter who wants to major in the fine arts. You might want to describe the moment when you first realized you wanted to be a painter. Or your greatest accomplishment. Or your mentor. Or, if no one eureka moment comes to mind, explain why. Perhaps you didn't realize your passion or your talent right away. Describe that.

Communicating goals in your college admissions essay

Remember when the college was trying to impress you on your campus tours? Now you have to impress your college. What are you going to do for the college?

You should also think about what admission to this college would mean to you. Discuss your aspirations and how this college will help you achieve them. If you achieve them, how will that help society? Continue reading ...

Article by, Shannon Lausch and courtesy of Associated Content, Inc.