S5E23: How to Approach Your College Application Essays (What Admissions Officers Notice & What to Avoid)

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-698ba4c4-86c0-8332-bb91-d1ab5e770345-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-698ba4c4-86c0-8332-bb91-d1ab5e770345-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-12" data-turn="assistant"> Get Expert Feedback on Your College Essay Not sure if your essay is ready to submit? Admittedly's Essay Review Service gives students direct, strategic feedback on their essays from experts who understand how admissions officers actually evaluate an application. Our team can help identify what's working, what's missing, and where your essay could be stronger—without rewriting it for you or replacing your voice. ✍️ Learn more about Admittedly's Essay Review Service Here - In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel goes inside the college essay review process from an admissions officer's perspective. With admissions readers moving through thousands of applications, a "beautiful" essay isn't enough—your essays need to communicate something meaningful about who you are and make sense within the larger story of your application. Thomas breaks down the Common App personal statement, supplemental essays, additional information, and circumstances essays—and the role each should play. He also tackles some of the most common mistakes he sees, from manufactured trauma and résumé-style essays to copying successful essays, misusing AI, and letting parents over-edit a student's voice. Key Takeaways Why your essays need to support the strategy of your entire application What admissions officers are actually trying to learn from your personal essay Why great essays need a strong hook—but shouldn't start with one Common essay topics and approaches that often miss the mark How to use supplemental, additional information, and circumstances essays strategically Why copying "essays that worked" can actually make your writing less effective Where parents and AI can—and shouldn't—fit into the writing process Your college essay shou