College Application Essays & Social Media - Grace Hinds

There are many variables within the college application paradigm. Students learn to strive toward achieving high grades and top SAT/ACT scores. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, especially those that indicate public awareness and service. It is true; these factors are monumentally important. However, the application essay is also vital. Colleges and universities receive thousands of submissions every year. Educational institutions review materials from students, all of whom have similar grades and SAT/ACT scores. Additionally, several students may The college essay is integral to the final decision about a student's acceptance into undergraduate and graduate programs. This document is the individual's chance to make an impression and show career aspirations, personal and professional experiences, educational goals, and some indication that the school's curriculum would benefit the student's professional plans. The college essay is critical. It should be grammatically correct, and the substance astutely articulated. It should present the student as a thoughtful, analytical person with a thirst for knowledge. Acceptance is the goal of every student. The essay should be another tool to present the student as an asset to the community, college, or university.

Social media presence is also a significant judgment criterion. Anyone assuming this element is not critical to successful college and university acceptance needs to pay attention. For the past few years, students posting inappropriate and racist statements and videos have suffered through rescinded college acceptance offers after uncovered social media posts. Colleges and universities do not function within a vacuum. Accepting an individual as a student indicates the institution's view that the student would be a good school representative. Students must be fully cognizant that this unofficial goodwill position is paramount to higher education institutions.

Every student should ask these two questions before they post: Am I comfortable with this statement or video? Is there anything within the message or video that could jeopardize me? Unfortunately, too many people do not ask those two questions, much to their chagrin. Higher education is competitive and essential; students must always present themselves positively. The essay and social media presence will influence decisions about college acceptance; it's not just about a student's GPA and SAT/ACT scores. Schools try to obtain a complete composite of the student as a human being.