This topic was inspired by a student ... (University of Virginia, 1999) UVa is another college that offers several interesting optional essays each year. Colleges claim they truly are optional ...

In many cases, students seek extra help when they face a blank page. Some even visit speedypaper right away to see examples or get fresh advice. This can offer a boost, but it’s also important to ...

(Check out my CBS MoneyWatch post on grabber intros: 10 Great Opening Lines from Stanford Admissions Essays.) Add details to make it richer and more interesting ... choosing a topic you think ...