Costco is a giant wholesaler, known for selling everything from bulk goods to wedding dresses. It is perhaps one of the most unlikely sources of inspiration for Ivy League applicants, but recent years have seen a surge in the popularity of the Costco essay. This essay, which largely features anecdotes about a student’s experience while shopping at Costco, has become something of a legend among admissions committees.
Key Takeaways
- The Costco essay is a non-traditional application essay that has gained popularity among Ivy League applicants.
- The essay typically features anecdotes about a student’s experience while shopping at Costco.
- The Costco essay’s popularity has soared in recent years due to its higher acceptance rate at Ivy League schools.
- The content and writing style of the essay reflects the applicant’s personality and values.
- Critics argue that the Costco essay undercuts the seriousness of the college application process and dilutes the value of genuine achievements.
The Unorthodox Application Trend
The Costco essay was first introduced by Brittany Stinson, a high-school senior who applied to five Ivy League schools and Stanford University in 2016. Stinson’s essay, which recounted her experiences while shopping at Costco with her family, quickly gained popularity and made rounds on the internet.
Since then, the Costco essay has become something of a staple for Ivy League applicants. The essay’s popularity has grown, thanks in part to its reputation as a non-traditional alternative to the typical application essays, which often focus on academic and extracurricular achievements.
What Makes the Costco Essay Unique?
The Costco essay is characterized by unconventional content and writing style. Instead of the typical approach of highlighting academic and extracurricular achievements, the essay delves into personal experiences while shopping at Costco.
What makes the Costco essay unique is the way it reflects the applicant’s personality and values. It allows students to showcase their creativity, sense of humor, and unique perspective. Moreover, the anecdotes included in the essay aim to provide insights into applicants’ characters rather than their resumes.
Understanding the Popularity of the Costco Essay
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Costco essay is its high acceptance rate at Ivy League schools. Critics argue that this might suggest a preference for style over substance in college admissions.
However, supporters of the essay point out that the anecdotes and the unique style of the essay offer a different lens with which to evaluate candidates. The essay allows admissions committees to gain better insights into the applicants’ personalities, experiences, and perspectives.
Implications of the Costco Essay Trend
The rise of the Costco essay trend raises concerns among critics who argue that the essay is a distraction from the more important aspects of the college application. Critics also point out that the popularity of the essay is symptomatic of the broader problem of the college admission process, which is increasingly driven by perceived success rather than actual potential.
However, supporters of the essay argue that it offers a new dimension to college application evaluation. The Costco essay provides an alternative to the traditional application essay that tends to be more formulaic in its approach.
Final Thoughts
The Costco essay is an example of the unorthodox trends that have emerged in college admissions in recent years. Although it has its detractors, many students who have used the essay have been able to get admissions into top colleges across the country.
However, it is crucial for prospective applicants to understand that the Costco essay is not a magic ticket to Ivy League schools. While the essay is an excellent tool to showcase creativity, it needs to be backed up by other academic and extracurricular achievements.
In conclusion, the Costco Ivy League essay trend is an example of how creative and unorthodox approaches to college applications can sometimes work. Whether it will continue to be as prominent in the future remains to be seen.
FAQ
Is the Costco essay a reliable means of getting accepted into Ivy League schools?
While the Costco essay has gained popularity among Ivy League applicants, it is important to note that using this essay alone is not a guarantee of admission. Applicants are still expected to have strong academic records, extracurricular achievements, and well-rounded personalities.
What are the benefits of using the Costco essay?
The Costco essay can be a useful tool for showcasing creativity, humor, and a unique perspective. It also provides an alternative to the traditional application essay, which tends to be more formulaic.
Is the Costco essay a distraction from more important aspects of the college application process?
Critics of the Costco essay trend argue that it is a distraction from more critical aspects of the college application process. However, supporters of the essay argue that it offers a new dimension to college application evaluation.