Common
Application 2014-2015: Essay Prompts to Remain the Same!
After much uproar last year about the changes in the Common
Application 2013-2014, the 2014-2015 version will retain the current set of
first-year essay prompts. And despite numerous complaints from both counselors
and students, the essay will continue to be capped at 650 words. While the more specific questions and
word limits do make the writing of the essay more challenging, the prompts are
broad enough that, if students are creative, they can make most topics answer
one of the questions. The word
limit requires students be succinct and critical about every word choice--a
good thing! The prompts are:
-Some students have a background
or story that is so central to their identity
that
they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this
sounds like you, then please share your
story.
-Recount
an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect
you, and what lessons did you learn?
-Reflect
on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you
to act? Would you make the same decision
again?
-Describe
a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do
you do or experience there, and why is
it meaningful to you?
-Discuss
an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your
transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community,
or
family.
So if you are a junior, should you start writing? NO! It is too early. However, I do encourage my students to begin
keeping a notebook with possible topic ideas. And if they feel inspired to write a description of an
experience or anecdote, go for it. Having some ideas on paper before beginning the process more formally can take the pressure off and help students avoid writer's block!