Transfer Tips: Nailing the essay portion

By Catherine Engstrom-Hadley
Staff Writer

The essay portion of an application can be tricky for students: it’s a chance to paint a picture of who you are, but you have to pull it off in a small number of words.

Each university will ask different essay questions, from “Describe a group you belong in” for the University of Michigan, to University of Chicago’s “How do you feel about a Wednesday?” The topics range a wide spectrum.

Heather Zettelmaier, ESL teacher and language faculty at Washtenaw Community College offered advice for students starting on application essays.

“The best college essays reveal you as a person and don’t seem canned or vague; they richly expose your own life and clearly show who you are,” said Zettelmaier. “Be who you are, get specific and don’t be afraid to be personal. It helps makes a better connection with your reader.”

“The university is interested in what you give, not just what you can take,” said Zettelmaier. “What’s the student’s past journey? What sacrifices, grit and resilience can you write about? Tell them more about what you did while you were here; in a lab, volunteer work, even your day job.”

For students who struggle to get down to the smaller word counts? “Edit, revise, edit,” said Zettelmaier.

“Think of what you are writing is essential, get to the point and be direct,” said Zettelmaier. “And most importantly, make sure you are answering the question.”

Students who would like a second set of eyes and some help can bring college essays to the writing center, LA 355, on the third floor of the LA building.

“We love to help with college essays,” said Zettelmaier.

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