Best College Admission Essays : Book Review

"Best College Admission Essays" by Mark Alan Stewart is a comprehensive guide that aims to assist students in crafting compelling essays for their college applications. With his extensive experience as a college admissions consultant, Stewart provides expert advice, tips, and strategies to help students stand out from the competition and maximize their chances of getting accepted into their dream colleges.

A crucial emphasis of this book is placed on the significance of the college essay in the admissions process. Stewart highlights how a well-written essay can make a significant difference and offers practical suggestions on how to select a topic, structure the essay, and engage the reader. To reinforce his points, the author includes sample essays from successful applicants, enabling readers to gain inspiration and effectively adapt them to their own stories and experiences. Stewart's commentary on each essay further provides insightful analysis and additional guidance.

Moreover, "Best College Admission Essays" stands out due to the diverse range of essay examples it offers. These examples cover a wide array of topics, including personal experiences, specific interests, and notable achievements. This diversity allows students to find inspiration that resonates with them and encourages them to approach their essays in a unique and authentic way.

Another valuable feature of this book is the inclusion of advice from college admissions officers and industry experts. These individuals share their perspectives on what constitutes an exceptional essay and provide invaluable insights into common mistakes to avoid. This collection of advice enhances the book's credibility and helps students gain a deeper understanding of what admissions officers are looking for.

Overall, "Best College Admission Essays" is a valuable resource for high school students embarking on their college application journey. Through practical guidance, numerous examples, and expert advice, the book equips students with the necessary tools to write memorable and impactful essays that increase their chances of admission to their desired colleges. By utilizing the strategies outlined in this book, students can confidently navigate the application process and present their best selves to admissions committees.

What are readers saying?

The book "Best College Admission Essays" by Mark Alan Stewart has received a range of reviews from readers. While some readers highly recommend the book for its insightful advice, others feel that it falls short in providing substantial guidance for writing college admission essays.

Many reviewers praise the book for its valuable content and helpful tips. They appreciate the inclusion of various sample essays, which serve as excellent examples of successful college admission essays. Readers find the book to be a great resource for understanding the expectations of college admissions boards and gaining a better understanding of what makes a standout essay. Additionally, they highlight the book's valuable advice on crafting compelling personal statements, including guidance on structure and content.

However, some reviewers express disappointment with the book. They find that the sample essays provided are not diverse enough, predominantly focusing on applicants with extraordinary achievements or experiences that may not be relatable to the average student. Critics argue that this limited scope does not offer enough diversity for students to draw inspiration from.

Another criticism of the book is its lack of specific strategies and techniques for developing a strong college admission essay. Some readers feel that the book could have provided more step-by-step guidance, offering more insight into the brainstorming and revision process.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still find the book to be a valuable resource and recommend it to prospective college students. They appreciate the insights and perspectives shared by successful applicants, which can offer inspiration and encouragement during the stressful application process.

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