Essays are a part of the college life. As a matter of fact, they are a huge portion of the college life. Students out there will be all too familiar with the essay process – unless you find a professional essay writing service – by the time they graduate and will likely hope to never see another essay ever again.

But to get into certain colleges, you will need to write a college application essay. It isn’t the only matter of importance when applying to a prestigious college, but it is certainly one of the more important aspects. Here are a few things to take into account when crafting your college application essay.

1. Pick Something Important to You

Choose something that had a profound impact on your life. Speaking from the heart and doing so honestly is sure to make an impact when your essay is read by the college you apply to.

Writing that kind of college essay shows the person who you truly are in a way that some fluff piece can never truly achieve. It might not guarantee acceptance, but it will give you a much better shot.

2. Funny Is Good, But Beware

One of the best ways to stand out among a sea of applicants is to make your admissions officer laugh. Being able to do so successfully will allow your essay to stand out among the rest. But beware; what you think is funny may differ greatly from what a working adult thinks is funny.

Going the comedy route runs the risk of upsetting and alienating the admissions officer, flying in the face of your intended purpose. The comedy route has potential, but it isn’t without its risks.

3. Reflect on Your Experience, Don’t Recount

Anyone can write about an experience like they were recapping any event in their life. It is when you can truly reflect on the experience – what it meant to you on a deeper level – that you can capture your audience.

It is also this ability that shows more about who you are as a person, separating you from the rest of the applicants.

4. Don’t Settle on a First Draft

Like any quality piece of writing, it will take more than one try. Work everything out in a first draft and then read it over and make tweaks. By your third or fourth time through, you will have a truly refined essay that comes across on a much more professional level. This will help to set you apart in the eyes of admissions officers.

5. Get an Editor (When Possible)

Also, like any quality piece of writing, it can benefit from a fresh set of eyes. Have another party take a look at your piece so you can get an unbiased opinion on your work. That extra opinion will help you see things that you couldn’t before.