08/14/2020
During COVID-19, why are college essays more important than ever?
William R. Fitzsimmons, Harvard College’s dean of admissions, addressed the changes to the application process because of COVID-19: “It’s really important to understand the challenges that kids are facing, to acknowledge that those challenges have suddenly become much bigger, and that you can’t really assess kids fairly unless you understand that context… The statement encourages students to report these challenges and obstacles and reassures students that what they write will be confidential and will only lead to a more positive review of their applications.”
Now that a lot of schools have gone to pass/fail, don’t require standardized test scores and extracurricular activities are being cancelled, there are very few ways to stand apart from the rest of the college applicants. It is well known that a powerful, well-written statement or essay can push an admissions officer off of the fence and can make the difference between a college acceptance or denial.
I’ve edited everything from history books, to magazines, to websites and I have to say that my favorite part of my job is working with students on their essays. I love the process of brainstorming about topics, the back-and-forth of edits and the final sculpting of an essay with a result in which the senior is proud. (But the best part is when they call me to say they’ve gotten into their dream school!)
Contact me if you'd like help separating from the pack!
