On today's episode we are delving into the questions pouring in from our vibrant social media community, filled with students from across the globe. Interacting with you all has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey, and the questions you bring are incredibly thoughtful and relevant to the college application process. So, today, we'll explore recurring themes and specific questions I've received, aiming to shed light on this collective learning experience. Key Points: The Illusion of Sparkling Essays: Often, schools showcase exceptional essays as examples, but they tend to select the "sparkly" ones, those with extraordinary stories. What's lost is the beauty of intimate personal narratives. The most captivating essays are those reflecting deep self-awareness and candid introspection. The Pitfall of Emulation: Many applicants try to replicate these "sparkly" essays by inflating ordinary experiences. Authenticity and depth are key. Overstating your achievements can be transparent to admissions officers. Passion Projects vs. Depth of Involvement: Avoid the trend of superficial "passion projects." Admissions officers seek candidates with a sustained and meaningful commitment to their endeavors, demonstrating genuine expertise and dedication. Addressing Learning Disabilities: While it's essential to acknowledge challenges like learning disabilities, the focus should be on how you overcame them and the impact on your growth and contributions, not just the adversity itself. Cultural Norms and Religion: These can be valuable aspects of your identity, but they need to extend beyond mere descriptions. Showcase how they inform your actions, values, and contributions, especially within a university setting. Conclusion: In the ever-evolving world of college applications, remember that authenticity, depth, and the ability to connect your experiences to meaningful growth are the keys to crafting compelling essays. Don't chase the illusion of "sparkly" essays or fall into the trap of emulating others. Instead, embrace your unique journey, whether it involves overcoming challenges, expressing your passions, or finding inspiration in your cultural background. As application deadlines approach, stay true to yourself, and good luck in your academic endeavors! About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and @admittedlypodcast on TikTok. Please subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.