Application Essay - Any advice?

smile123 · Nov 12, 2005

what advice would you give for writing the application essay? i've had 2 counselors look over my essay, with one saying that it was one of the strongest/clearest she's read and the other saying that it was weak and "lacked oomph". any advice on what would make a good essay or what selection committees may be looking for?

wow! that's quite a range of reaction for the essay. i think you probably want at least a third opinion. are you clearly stating your goals and how they fit into healthcare and nursing? are you using personal examples? do you show you understand the current trends and issues facing nursing today? reread the essay question again and make sure you are answering the qusetion. can you go back to each counselor and ask them what about the essay in particular led them to that conclusion? remember, these counselors probably see students all day; they also vary in their experience and how they help students. your essay is very important so do spend the time on it. i wish you the best of luck.

smile123

Calimama · Nov 14, 2005

The best thing to do is give it to your english professor and have her/him look it over. I let both my advisor and my english instuctor see my essay and they both had great advice, but my english instructor offered the best advice as far as clarity and flow. Good luck!

**RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN** · Nov 15, 2005

Make it relevant to the question posed. Avoid redundace and hightlight important features and strong points. Make sure it is error proof and that it follows the english format. Usually double spaced, 12 font, Arial/Times New Roman, Intro, body (2-3 paragraphs), and a well rounded conclusion.

Most importantly be confident when writing it, don't be afraid to make yourself look good. Sell yourself.

I did this and impressed the nursing staff :)

Good luck