Are you an aspiring BYU student who wants to make a lasting impression on the admissions committee? Look no further than your essay. BYU essays are an essential part of the application process and are an opportunity to showcase your unique voice, character, interests, and academic goals. With that in mind, here are some tips and examples for writing a winning BYU essay.
Importance of the BYU Essay
BYU is renowned for its academic excellence and holistic approach to education. As such, the admissions committee takes all aspects of your application seriously, including your essay. A good essay is a vital tool for assessing a student’s academic potential, character, and suitability for the BYU community. A well-written essay shows that you’re serious about attending BYU and that you’re a good fit for the university.
What Makes a Good BYU Essay?
A good BYU essay is one that showcases your unique qualities and perspective. Your essay should be authentic and genuine, reflecting who you are as a person and a student. Stick to the prompt and don’t go over the word limit. The structure of your essay should have an introduction, body, and conclusion. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Start with a strong opening that catches the reader’s attention.
- Use specific examples to illustrate your points and make your essay more engaging.
- Address any weaknesses in your application or academic record and explain how you plan to overcome them.
- Proofread and edit your essay for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Examples of Successful BYU Essays
Here are some examples of successful BYU essays from past applicants:
Example 1:
Prompt: Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you.
Essay: The applicant wrote about volunteering at a homeless shelter and how it helped her develop empathy and compassion for others. She explained how she became more aware of her own privilege and how she can use her education to make a positive impact on the world.
Takeaway: Use personal anecdotes and specific examples to showcase your experiences and perspective.
Example 2:
Prompt: Explain a time when you had to learn something new, whether it was a new skill or content knowledge.
Essay: The applicant wrote about learning how to code and how it changed her outlook on problem-solving. She explained how coding helped her think more logically and solve problems in a systematic way.
Takeaway: Use your essay to showcase your skills and abilities, and how they have helped shape you as a person.
Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Successful BYU Essay
Here are some dos and don’ts for writing a successful BYU essay:
Dos:
- Spend time brainstorming and outlining your essay.
- Be authentic and genuine.
- Stick to the prompt.
- Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
- Edit and proofread your essay for errors.
- Seek feedback from others.
Don’ts:
- Don’t write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear.
- Don’t go over the word limit.
- Don’t use cliches or overused phrases.
- Don’t be afraid to showcase your personality.
Useful Resources for Writing a Standout Essay
Here are some useful resources for writing a standout BYU essay:
Words of Inspiration
Writing a BYU essay can be daunting, but don’t let that discourage you. Remember to be true to yourself and don’t be afraid to showcase your unique voice and perspective. Seek feedback from others to improve your essay, and don’t give up if your first draft doesn’t quite hit the mark. With hard work and dedication, you can write a standout essay that will help you get into BYU.
FAQs
When should I start writing my BYU essay?
You should start writing your BYU essay as soon as possible, ideally several months before the application deadline. This will give you plenty of time to brainstorm, outline, write, and revise your essay.
How long should my BYU essay be?
Your BYU essay should be no more than 500-700 words.
Can I use a professional writing service to write my BYU essay?
No, you should not use a professional writing service to write your BYU essay. Your essay should be a reflection of your unique voice and perspective, and using a writing service would be considered academic dishonesty.