Why Emory Called This Ordinary Common App Essay “Exceptional”

You don’t need a dramatic event or heartbreaking backstory to write a compelling Common App personal essay. Let’s break down an essay Emory Admissions Officers called "exceptional" and explore what makes an ordinary topic work! 00:57 is the opening line too risky? 02:01 do you need a lifelong passion? 03:02 how to discover what's truly unique about you? 05:08 plain English makes effective writing! 06:08 do risk management like this. 07:14 what do Emory admissions officers like about the tone? 09:37 be a normal kid! 11:03 what do admissions officers really want? 11:41 why does an EXCEPTIONAL essay need to be IMPERFECT? 14:22 could this part be what earns the student acceptance? 16:18 great college essay: fine dining or home cooking? 17:14 how should you choose your topic?