Kids may want to tackle sensitive topics in their college admission essays, but beware the fine line between honest and inappropriate oversharing.
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Students’ grades and the academic rigor of their course loads weigh more heavily in decisions to admit than standardized test scores, high school class rank, or demonstrated interest in attending, according to a new report. Essays are so important, but they can only tip the scales that already were weighted in your favor.
As someone who has edited a lot of essays about leadership, I appreciate that someone is asking the question of why it's valued above so many other qualities. "The implicit message behind the rhetoric of leadership in the American college admissions is that intellectualism alone is not enough, even for an academic institution," the article states.
The New York Times blogged recently on the rise of the quirky essay topic and how the approach is meant to find the creative thinkers. Closer to home, I've found that Oklahoma State seems to be the school with the most offbeat essay selections. Apply Texas, which covers the majority of Texas schools, goes with fairly standard fare.
Students who want to attend UT, Texas A&M or any other Texas school in 2014 will have to tackle the essay topics on the Apply Texas application. The NEW topics are posted here.
The New York Times shares some college essays from students who took a gamble by tackling taboo subjects with sensitivity. "For anyone looking to inspire their own children ... who are seeking to go to college in the fall of 2014, these four essays would be a good place to start," the newspaper says.
You can't actually submit the Common App for the 2014-15 school year until Aug. 1, but the five essay topics are available for consideration. Rising seniors definitely should be working on their essays during the summer.
This piece from ProPublica describes how college admissions offices game the system, but it also offers insights into how a student might use those games to his advantage.
This expert offers many excellent tips for writing essays as part of college applications. Remember, the time is approaching for college applications! If you need help, please contact me at [email protected].
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AuthorLinda Leavell is The Write Coach, based in Plano, Texas. She reads a lot about college admissions and writing essays. And she shares the best stuff. Or you can follow her on Facebook. 
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