What is the difference between a college essay and a personal essay?
College essay
- A required application essay that typically asks students to reflect on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal experiences.
- Often 500-750 words long.
- Emphasizes the applicant's potential and fit for the college.
- Often asked about the applicant's academic goals, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities.
Personal essay
- A voluntary essay that allows students to explore their thoughts and experiences in more depth.
- Typically 500-1,000 words long.
- Can be about anything the student wants, but it often focuses on a specific event, experience, or issue.
- Can be used to demonstrate the applicant's personality, character, and voice.
