The college essaythat cornerstone of the traditional college application processmay be on its deathbed. In an increasingly competitive marketplace with more students vying for a limited number of spots at elite universities, the traditional college essay no longer seems to be enough.
As students compete for admission into top schools, they must showcase more than just strong academic credentials; they must demonstrate leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth. As such, universities have been trending towards more holistic application processes, in which multiple components form an applicants submission. Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, recommendations from teachers and counselors, and extracurricular activities have become increasingly important when making admissions decisions.
This trend is increasingly pushing the college essay out of the equation. Rather than an essay, many universities are now requiring prospective students to submit a portfolio or other type of project that can better showcase an applicants skills and growth. These projects are often more comprehensive and can provide a better overall picture of who an applicant is as a person. This shift is also reflected in the Common Application, which now prompts students to answer a set of short answer questions that allow them to provide more insight into their character and values.
Ultimately, the traditional college essay may soon become obsolete. As universities continue to focus on more comprehensive ways of evaluating applicants, it is likely that the college essay will become less and less importantor even disappear altogether. In its place, more creative projects that emphasize personal growth and potential will become the norm in the college admissions process.
