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!