College essays are a crucial part of the college application process. The college application essay is supposed to account for roughly 25 percent of an overall college application, which is a pretty substantial number, especially since it is one of the few things that seniors can control this far into their high school careers. Plus, this is one of the few moments where the admissions officers at various schools can hear the student’s voice and thoughts in an application full of numbers and statistics, so standing out to admissions officers is key.
It can be challenging to determine which topic is the best for this crucial essay. It can also be challenging to make this essay as polished as possible for the best chances of admission to one’s dream college. On top of all this, getting this essay done can be overwhelming, especially with the rest of the college application process (like countless supplemental essays) and an already stressful and hectic final year of high school at Academic Magnet.
Luckily, as a new support system at Magnet for seniors this year, our school has implemented a college essay workshop where students can show up after school to work with teachers on the Common App essay. This workshop began last week on Monday and has been praised so far by the students for the help of all the teachers involved!
Seniors Sousa Waggoner and Elizabeth Hample, who went to the workshop last week, both said that the workshop was super helpful and convenient to go to right after school. They also agreed that the workshop met its goal of helping students improve their personal statements before their deadlines.
The AMHS Writing Workshop works by allowing any senior who wants their essay edited or reviewed to go to room 8125 in building 8 (room 8125 is the college/career center located in the counselor hallway) after school. Students should arrive with a working draft of their Common App personal statement essay so far. Then, students will be helped by an Academic Magnet English teacher or by another teacher who is helping at the workshop during that time.
The workshop began last Monday, September 23, and will run Monday through Thursday this week and next week (ending on 10/10). Teachers in the workshop are available from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. One nice thing about this opportunity is that students do not need an appointment or need to schedule a time with a specific teacher, as every senior college applicant is welcome to attend the drop-in!
With all of the stress of senior year so far, it is great to have a support system on campus. The personal statement essay is one of the most crucial parts of college applications, so having these resources is helpful and a significant relief. If any seniors need help with their essay or any part of the application process, this resource should help bring peace of mind and help produce a better end product. Make sure to take advantage of this opportunity. I know I plan on attending this workshop soon to ensure my essay is as strong as possible!
