College Essays in the Time of COVID

As with almost everything else, Covid-19 has altered the landscape of the college application process. Some universities and colleges began to go test-optional well over a decade ago, but the pandemic has proven to be the single greatest catalyst toward this end. Even the College Board has recognized the shift and has announced that they will no longer be offering SAT subject tests and have eliminated the essay option from the SAT. 

With quantitative measurements reduced and de-emphasized, other factors must necessarily be adjusted. Already in 2020-21, greater attention has been focused on applicants’ activities, personal statements, and supplemental essays. A well-rounded student who has demonstrated commitment to academics and extracurriculars has always been the gold standard, and demonstrating dedication to a few activities is generally better than a laundry list of clubs. 

With regard to essays, they must be carefully conceived and crafted as they offer college admissions counselors often their singular chance to hear an applicant’s voice. Selecting a topic and writing about it in an authentic and meaningful way will show the student’s ability to communicate and reflect upon their story. The first step is to look at the prompts and then set them aside as the student contemplates what to write about. The more forethought, the easier and better the process. Starting early will provide plenty of time to think, rethink, write, re-write, and perfect the finished product.

I am happy to schedule a preliminary conversation with parents and students to see how I can help relieve stress and provide guidance.