College Essays

Common Application

Prompt: Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.

Essay:
I simultaneously belong to two communities located at opposite ends of the country. The first of these being located in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, the second in Parkland, Florida. I grew up and experienced different periods of my life with the people who live in these small towns. I often feel torn between two worlds, in which a different version of myself exists in both places. The person I was in Florida only exists in memory and the person I have become only minimally resembles who I once was. The peers I left behind in Florida are unaware of the person I have become, as I have yet to return home. Those I left behind in Parkland are lifelong companions and shall eternally have a special and hallowed place in my heart. Parklanders are defined by their compassion and fun-loving spirit. I miss most their positive aspect on life, even in wake of the tragedy endured. My fellow Parklanders are responsible for an important aspect of my emotional development and made me a more worldly and compassionate person. In that way I feel always as a bit of an outsider in Basking Ridge. That is not to say I do not profoundly associate myself as a member of the Basking Ridge community. This community has also molded me into the person that I am and will be. It has changed my perspective on a number of issues and has granted me with invaluable life skills. I suppose the point that I am trying to make is that my place in each of these communities is undefined in that I do not and cannot belong fully to either of them. I live a torn life, and yet because of this I have ironically become a more whole and complete person.

Tips for Writing:
Before you even start writing any of your essays for common app/coalition, give each prompt an equal period of contemplation time. Consider your strengths and weaknesses and consider which essay would best highlight your strengths. Also, never turn in an essay that has not been proofread at least once. It’s never a good thing to turn in an essay that has grammar mistakes. It is also beneficial to get a second opinion on your essay– you may think it is exceptional, but in reality it may be substandard. No matter what, write about your genuine passions and experiences. It will be obvious if you are not genuinely interested in a topic and attempt to make yourself appear to be. Make sure you fully answer the prompt. It is easy to get carried away talking about yourself, and while you should do that, it is also important to answer the prompt that is being asked.

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