The #1 Thing Admissions Officers Look For in Your Essay

Let’s be honest for a second. Admissions officers read thousands of essays every year. Most of them are boring.

Why? Most students treat the essay like a resume in sentence form. They list their awards, their clubs, and their grades.

But here is the truth. The admissions officer already has your transcript. They already have your activity list. They do not need you to repeat it. They are just looking for one specific thing.

That is “Connection”.

Your Personal Statement is the "soul" of your application. It is the only place where you can speak directly to them. As we mention in our [Ultimate Guide to College Admissions], the best way to create that connection is through the Narrative Arc.

Why "Impressive" Can Be Boring

Many students try to sound like heroes in their essays. They write about how they saved the day or won the big championship.

The problem is that "hero" stories often lack depth. Real connection comes from vulnerability. It comes from admitting you didn't know the answer, or that you had to change your mind about something.

How to Build Your Arc

A great story is simple. It follows three beats.

1. The Challenge

Start in the middle of the action. Describe a moment of tension. This grabs the reader’s attention immediately.

2. The Action

Show us how you think. When you faced that challenge, what specific steps did you take? This demonstrates your problem-solving skills.

3. The Reflection

This is the secret sauce. You need to explain why this mattered. How did this experience prepare you for college? This proves you are ready for the next level.

Quick Tips for a Standout Essay

• Ditch the Thesaurus: If you wouldn't say a word to your best friend, don't write it in your essay. Big words build a wall between you and the reader.

• Focus on You: Make sure you are the main character. If you write about your inspiring grandmother, make sure the essay is still about how she influenced you, not just about her history.

Let’s Find Your Story

Your life is full of great stories, even if you don't see them yet.

At Success Admissions, we act as your storytellers and strategists. We help you brainstorm the perfect topic, structure your Narrative Arc, and polish your essay until it stands out in the pile.

Stop worrying about the word count and start writing an essay that matters.

Ready to get started? Fill out the Inquiry Form to get matched with your personal Success Counselor today!