26 Sep Crafting Your Future: A Review of the 25th Anniversary Edition of On Writing the College Application Essay
Review: On Writing the College Application Essay, 25th Anniversary Edition by Harry Bauld
When I first stumbled upon On Writing the College Application Essay, I was immediately transported back to my own college application days—those nail-biting months filled with uncertainty, anxiety, and relentless discussions about how to craft the "perfect" essay. Author Harry Bauld, with his background as a former Ivy League admissions officer, seemed like the perfect guide to navigate this treacherous landscape. His direct approach and wealth of experience intrigued me, and I found myself diving headfirst into his insights.
Bauld’s book offers a refreshing perspective on what makes an essay compelling. He emphasizes the significance of authenticity, encouraging students to find and embrace their true voice rather than conforming to clichés. The way he dismantles common themes—like the ubiquitous "trip of a lifetime" trope or the tired "pet death" narrative—was both humorous and enlightening. His approach is like a guided tour through the mind of an admissions officer, offering readers insider tips on how to stand out amid a sea of mediocrity. I found myself nodding along as he detailed what admissions officers truly loathe: the formulaic and overly polished narratives that mask genuine emotion and personality.
One of the standout features of Bauld’s writing is his ability to blend humor with straightforward advice. For example, his engaging anecdotes about the admissions process—particularly the imagined late-night conversations among officers, critiquing the essays they dread reading—made me both chuckle and cringe. These moments reminded me how critical it is to infuse individuality into one’s writing. He repeatedly drives home a vital lesson: admissions teams spend countless hours sifting through essays, and a distinct voice can cut through the noise.
Bauld’s warmth is palpable throughout the book. He provides countless examples, both uplifting and cautionary, that resonate deeply with anyone, not just college applicants. The practical exercises he offers lit a spark of creativity within me; I found myself writing and rewriting with renewed vigor, inspired to dig deeper into my own writing skills.
As I turned the final pages of the book, I was left feeling empowered. Bauld expertly straddles the line between mentor and friend, making the college essay-writing endeavor less intimidating and more approachable.
For students set to embark on their college applications, or even for parents and educators who want to support them, this book is a treasure trove of insights. It arms you with the tools needed to tackle the overwhelming task of writing an essay that is not merely good but truly memorable. I genuinely wish I had discovered this gem earlier in my own application journey!
In short, I wholeheartedly recommend On Writing the College Application Essay to anyone looking to navigate the complex landscape of college admissions. Bauld not only opens up a world of possibilities for the aspiring writer but also redefines what it means to tell one’s story. This book isn’t just about getting into college; it’s about discovering the power of your own voice in the process.
