Realistic Rules for Application Writing
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09 Apr 2010, 07:09
I.Don't come off as a buffoon: This should be your primary goal for your application. Leave the branding/marketing tactics to the experts.
II.Set realistic goals for your application: No, your application will not be the best application since sliced bread. No, your story about the time when you rescued a family from a burning house is not the most amazing story. The admissions committee has probably seen it all, so you will probably not blow their socks off
III.Trust your 1st instinct: Discuss your stories with someone (preferrably someone who is involved in the business school world and who has good judgement). But, most times your first instinct for a story is likely the best. Ultimately, trust your instinct over other's advice. You know your story best.
IV. Choose stories wisely: It is a good idea to discuss your stories with someone before you starting writing. But, a good guide is usually to a) answer the question b) tell a story that an outsider can easily appraise.
V.Don't exaggerate/inflate: Inflating the time when you helped a non-English speaking tourist find the Metropolitan Museum will make you look like a buffoon and adcom will see right through it.
VI.Take feedback with a grain of salt; it's your application!: : No one is perfect. Just because your reviewer was accepted to Wharton doesn't mean he/she knows everything. He/she could be wrong and as was said in III, you know your story best
VII.Do not read sample essays while writing: You don't want to end up sounding like everyone else. Plus, it could lead to serious inferiority complex (particularly if you are reading those essays in that Harvard book) and you don't need to be feeling that way when you are applying
VIII.Do not be a perfectionist: Again refer to II, set realistic goals for application. Know that all your essays will not be great. Some will be good and others will be okay. That's okay!
IX Take regular breaks: The process is long and arduous so it is good practice to take breaks to re-energize/recharge and to create some distance between yourself and your application so when you return, you come with a "fresh" set of eyes. Plus, it is well known that the mind works subconsciously and comes up with some of the best ideas at those times.
X.Try your best and realize that some things will be out of your control: Recommendations, GMAT, essays... it's a lot and despite your resolve to create the best application,the application that will guarantee your admission to Harvard/Stanford, the final written application is usually far from. So, don't be too hard on yourself. Your competition is struggling too.