T20 College Essay Guide

The best college application essays utilize proven frameworks for structure.

1. One effective approach is the past-present-future framework, which has been

shown to improve narrative coherence and demonstrate personal growth. A study
by the Journal of Educational Psychology found that essays following this
structure were rated 23% higher in overall quality. Begin by describing a
significant past experience, explain how it impacts your present perspective, and
then connect it to your future goals. This framework provides a clear narrative arc
and helps admissions officers understand your personal journey.

2. Apply the STAR method for impactful storytelling. Originally developed for job
interviews, the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) has been adapted
successfully for college essays. Research from the National Association of
Colleges and Employers shows that 80% of employers value problem-solving
skills in candidates, and this framework effectively showcases those abilities.
Describe a specific situation you faced, the Task at hand, the Actions you took,
and the Results you achieved. This structure helps you craft a compelling
narrative while highlighting your problem-solving skills and personal growth.

3. Incorporate the "Show, Don't Tell" technique. This literary device is crucial for
creating engaging essays. A survey of admissions officers by the College Board
found that 76% prefer essays that use vivid details and specific examples rather
than general statements. Instead of saying you're passionate about science,
describe the excitement you felt during a particular experiment. Use sensory
details and concrete examples to bring your experiences to life, allowing the
reader to draw their own conclusions about your character and qualities.

4. Employ the "Why Us" framework for supplemental essays. Many colleges
require additional essays asking why you're interested in their institution. A study
by Hobsons showed that 75% of colleges consider demonstrated interest an
important factor in admissions. Structure your response using the "Why Us"
framework: start with your academic interests, connect them to specific programs
or opportunities at the college, and conclude by explaining how these align with
 your future goals. This approach shows you've done your research and have a
genuine interest in the institution.

5. Use the problem-solution-impact model for essays about challenges or

achievements. This framework is particularly effective for prompts asking about
obstacles you've overcome or contributions you've made. A report from the
Common Application found that essays discussing personal growth through
challenges were among the most positively received by admissions officers. Begin
by clearly stating the problem you faced, describe the solution you implemented
or the action you took, and then explain the impact of your actions on yourself
and others. This structure demonstrates your ability to overcome adversity and
create positive change.

(Interactive Organization Charts Below)

 To utilize these frameworks effectively, you need to make sure to plan the structure of
your essay in advance. This roadmap table boils down your narratives to their key points
making sure you are very clear on what story you are trying to tell.

Roadmap for the Past-Present-Future framework and the STAR model

Experience/Event Skills Demonstrated Lessons Future Application

Learned
If you’re having trouble thinking of things to write about, fill this out. Key statistics
are included within the worksheet to help you figure out what to emphasize.

COLLEGE ESSAY PLANNING WORKSHEET

Name: ______________________ Date: ________________

Instructions: Fill in each section with your personal details, reflections, and ideas. Use this
worksheet to brainstorm and organize your thoughts for your college essays.

78% of admissions officers say a student's ability to tell their story can be a decisive factor in
the application process. Focus on crafting a coherent narrative across your essays, activities
list, and recommendations that highlights your unique qualities and experiences.

1. ACADEMIC INTERESTS
Major(s) I'm considering: _________________________________
Favorite subjects: _______________________________________
Academic achievements: __________________________________
How these relate to my future goals: _______________________
Potential essay topic: ____________________________________

75% of colleges consider grades in college prep courses as considerably important.

(NACAC, 2019)

83% of colleges say the strength of curriculum is considerably important. (NACAC,

2019)

2. PERSONAL EXPERIENCES
Significant life events: ___________________________________
Challenges I've overcome: ________________________________
Cultural background: ____________________________________
Lessons learned: ________________________________________
Potential essay topic: ____________________________________

3. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Clubs/Organizations: ____________________________________
Sports: ________________________________________________
Volunteer work: ________________________________________
Skills gained: __________________________________________
Potential essay topic: ____________________________________
 75% of colleges rate extracurricular activities as having "considerable" or "moderate"
importance in admissions decisions. (NACAC, 2019)

Leadership roles in activities are viewed as "very important" by 46% of colleges.

(NACAC, 2019)

4. SKILLS AND STRENGTHS

Technical skills: ________________________________________
Soft skills: ____________________________________________
Unique talents: _________________________________________
How these will help in college: ____________________________
Potential essay topic: ____________________________________

5. VALUES AND BELIEFS

Core principles: ________________________________________
Causes I care about: ____________________________________
Ethical standards: ______________________________________
How these guide my decisions: ____________________________
Potential essay topic: ____________________________________

6. FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
Career goals: __________________________________________
Graduate study plans: ___________________________________
Impact I want to make: __________________________________
How college fits into my plans: ____________________________
Potential essay topic: ____________________________________

73% of colleges consider demonstrated interest in intellectual pursuits outside of school

as "considerably important" in admissions decisions. Highlight any independent
research projects, academic competitions, or self-directed learning you've pursued.

7. UNIQUE QUALITIES
What sets me apart: _____________________________________
Unusual experiences: ____________________________________
Special perspective I offer: _______________________________
How I'll contribute to campus diversity: _____________________
Potential essay topic: ____________________________________

68% of colleges say diversity in the student body is a "considerable" or "moderate"

factor in admissions decisions. (Inside Higher Ed, 2019)
8. ESSAY IDEAS (Choose your top 3 potential topics and expand)
1. ____________________________________________________
Why this topic: _______________________________________
Key points to cover: ___________________________________

2. ____________________________________________________
Why this topic: _______________________________________
Key points to cover: ___________________________________

3. ____________________________________________________
Why this topic: _______________________________________
Key points to cover: ___________________________________

NOTES:
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Bonus Key Statistics for College Applicants:

1. Standardized Tests:
● 46% of colleges view SAT/ACT scores as considerably important. (NACAC, 2019)
● However, over 1,700 accredited colleges and universities now have test-optional
policies. (FairTest, 2021)
2. Demonstrated Interest:
● 16% of colleges consider demonstrated interest as considerably important.
(NACAC, 2019)
● 40% of admissions officers say demonstrated interest is at least moderately
important. (NACAC, 2019)
3. Application Trends:
○ The average student applies to 8-12 colleges. (US News & World Report, 2021)
4. Financial Aid:
○ Students who complete the FAFSA are 84% more likely to persist through their
first year of college. (National College Attainment Network, 2020)