The College Essay in 650 Words or Less: Featuring Vanderbilt University

Writing your college essay is one of the most difficult stages in the application process. With Vanderbilt University's John Gaines, this episode explains how to show your true self in 650 words.

Welcoming and introduction from co-hosts Lynn Stewart and Vicki Thompson. - 0:29

Introduction of John Gaines from Vanderbilt University. - 0:34

“As a veteran admission professional, talk a little about “positive advocacy,” and what that means for the Class of 2021 as they focus on trying to say something meaningful about their lives to a collection of strangers?” - 2:00 

Dylan from D100 Radio introduces himself. - 9:12

“With so many colleges and universities changing their policies to test-optional: Does holistic review place more emphasis on the essay?” - 9:16

“How important is it to submit an “optional” essay or resume?” - 10:51

“Can a student who’s never known poverty or significant hardship write a compelling essay?” - 12:35

Helpful tip from Lynn Stewart. - 17:34

“Varsity Blues blew the lid off of families paying for help to gain access to highly selective schools. How much help or input on an essay is too much? And how does a college admissions officer ‘sniff’ that out?” - 18:38

“Over the years admission offices have developed various methods to manage file review. Some offices pair up to review files, while others may have a single reader per territory. How easy is it to spot an essay that lacks authenticity?” - 23:34

“For students who want to know if their essay is headed in the right direction: Who should students trust to give them an honest opinion?” - 26:03

“Why do colleges ask supplemental questions? And realistically what can you learn about a person in 150 - 200 words?” - 26:46

“What should an applicant write about/include in the new COVID-19 section on the Common Application?” - 28:57

Explanation on one of the most important questions students fail to ask in the admissions process. - 30:39

“John, you experienced the college process firsthand with your own children. How much feedback did they seek from you?” - 33:55

“Is there anything you would like to share with our listeners that hasn’t been discussed?” - 37:39

Up next on Talk College to Me. - 38:26

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