Start early. Give yourself enough time to think about your essay and revise it as needed.

Write about something with which you’re familiar. The admissions office has your data including your GPA, test scores, and course curriculum. What else do they need to know about you?

Be yourself. The admissions team is interested in who you are –- not someone you think they want you to be.

Be original. Though many college applications will have standardized essay questions, try to put an original, creative spin on your response. Make the essay your own.

Write an essay that shows how you’re unique. For example, one student wrote about his rather large ears, and he was accepted to one of the highly selective universities.

Include any experiences or jobs that might set you apart from other applicants.

Be authentic. There’s no need to embellish your experiences. Colleges often limit the number of words from 250 to 500. Double spacing will make it easy for the admissions representatives to read your essay.

Use a relaxed, comfortable tone of voice but avoid being too familiar, sarcastic or comic. You never know what mood the reader is in or how he or she will perceive your tone since he or she cannot see your eyes, hear your voice, or read your body language.

Check to make sure your essay answers the questions asked. Avoid wandering too far from your subject matter.

Review, review, review. Proofread your essay for spelling, punctuation and grammar. Many individuals at your school are willing to offer feedback. Ask for assistance from your English teacher or counselor.

Mail your application early to avoid any postal mishap or Internet complications.