how we wrote our college app essays + pro tips! - maudy ayunda & jesse choi

Summary

In this video, the hosts share insights on writing unique and personal college application essays. They discuss the importance of showcasing individuality and intellectual curiosity, drawing from their own experiences. One candidate shares an essay on quantum tunneling, linking it to personal growth, while the other reflects on the philosophical and political implications of historical events. They emphasize the need for clarity when explaining complex ideas and highlight the value of self-reflection. The hosts also offer to review submitted essays, encouraging viewers to engage with the process and refine their personal statements.

Takeaways

• 😀 Showing intellectual curiosity through a unique topic (e.g., quantum tunneling or World War ideologies) can make your personal statement stand out.
• 😀 Personal essays should focus on a specific realization or moment that led to personal growth and reflection, making the narrative more compelling.
• 😀 It's important to explain complex concepts clearly so that all readers, including those without a background in the subject, can follow along.
• 😀 Avoid making your personal statement sound like a resume. Focus on depth, reflection, and how a particular subject shaped your worldview.
• 😀 Balance between demonstrating deep intellectual insight and ensuring the essay is digestible for readers with varying backgrounds is crucial.
• 😀 Connecting a complex concept (like quantum tunneling) to personal life and philosophical reflections adds a unique, multidimensional perspective to your essay.
• 😀 Essays should show how a specific intellectual or philosophical interest ties into your academic and career aspirations.
• 😀 Reflecting on how a historical or philosophical issue (e.g., ideologies causing wars) personally affects you demonstrates maturity and intellectual depth.
• 😀 Using outside reading and incorporating specific quotes from philosophers or experts can add credibility and depth to your personal essay.
• 😀 Being able to communicate complex ideas in a personal and relatable way is essential in making the essay both intellectual and emotionally engaging.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the video discussion?

The primary focus of the video is about writing college application essays, specifically personal statements. The speakers share their own experiences and dissect their essays to provide insights on what worked and what didn’t.

Why is the concept of 'quantum tunneling' used in the first speaker's essay?

The concept of 'quantum tunneling' is used as a metaphor to explain how seemingly impossible things can actually happen. The speaker draws inspiration from this scientific concept to reflect on the potential for achieving personal goals, even when they seem difficult or unattainable.

What challenge does the first speaker acknowledge regarding their quantum tunneling explanation?

The first speaker acknowledges that their explanation of quantum tunneling might be too complex for readers who are not familiar with physics, making it potentially difficult for admissions committees to fully grasp the concept without additional context.

How does the first speaker balance showcasing their intellectual curiosity in their essay?

The speaker uses the quantum tunneling concept to show deep intellectual curiosity. By exploring a specific and niche scientific idea, the essay demonstrates a passion for learning and the ability to make philosophical reflections based on scientific principles.

What advice is given about how to handle complex topics in a personal statement?

The speakers advise that when dealing with complex topics, it’s important to balance providing enough depth with ensuring the content is understandable to a wide audience. They emphasize the need to explain the concept clearly without requiring the reader to have prior knowledge of the topic.

Why does the second speaker write about the World Wars in their UK application essay?

The second speaker writes about the World Wars to highlight the interconnectedness of politics, philosophy, and economics. They reflect on how small ideological beliefs led to major political actions and economic consequences, which influenced their desire to study these subjects in depth.

What makes the second speaker’s essay unique compared to others?

The second speaker's essay is unique because it combines historical reflection with philosophical analysis. Instead of simply recounting facts, the speaker explores how ideological differences among world leaders led to large-scale conflicts, demonstrating a deep, reflective approach to the subject matter.

How do the speakers assess the value of using personal experiences in an essay?

The speakers stress the importance of making the essay personal. They suggest that applicants should aim to write something only they could write, based on their unique perspective and experiences. This helps demonstrate authenticity and intellectual curiosity, which are valued by admissions committees.

What is the main risk of focusing on extracurricular activities in a personal statement?

The main risk is that the essay could become one-dimensional, merely listing accomplishments without offering deeper insight into the applicant’s character, personality, or intellectual passions. The speakers suggest that while extracurriculars are important, they should be supplemented with personal reflections and experiences.

What general advice is given for applicants when writing their personal statement?

The general advice is to write an essay that reflects who you truly are—showing your passions, intellectual curiosity, and unique perspective. The speakers advise against turning the personal statement into a resume, focusing instead on how your experiences have shaped your worldview and goals.