College Re-applicant Essay

[Aldo.dector]

Hello guys,
I am a college re-applicant and I'm going to start writing my essays next week, after I'm done with finals, and I was wondering if for the "1. Describe a setback or ethical dilemma that you have faced. How did you resolve it? How did the outcome affect you? Most importantly, what did you learn about yourself and how would you handle a similar situation in the future? (400 to 500 words, 3000 characters max)" prompt I could write about getting denied. I could write about the things I did to improve my application, how I overcame the fact that I got denied since it was a little devastating, and obviously what I learned about myself throughout this entire second application process.

 

[crymsonwynters]

I wouldn't say this is a bad idea. But you have to make it a good essay. Lots of re-applicants are probably going to write about this as well, so you have to make yours stand out.

If you don't think you can make that happen, they try to find another example. And, keep in mind, admissions counselors have repeatedly told me that writing about an ethical dilemma is a better representation of your character than a setback. A setback can do really well to show your drive and commitment and learning curve, but an ethical dilemma does better to show your character, commitment to honor, conduct, etc.

Best of luck!

 

[Aldo.dector]

I wouldn't say this is a bad idea. But you have to make it a good essay. Lots of re-applicants are probably going to write about this as well, so you have to make yours stand out.

If you don't think you can make that happen, they try to find another example. And, keep in mind, admissions counselors have repeatedly told me that writing about an ethical dilemma is a better representation of your character than a setback. A setback can do really well to show your drive and commitment and learning curve, but an ethical dilemma does better to show your character, commitment to honor, conduct, etc.

Best of luck!

That’s understandable, I’ll try to see what I can write about. Thank you!

 

[Capt MJ]

Did someone ever tempt you to drink underage or use drugs or lie to your parents or cheat on a test or otherwise behave unethically? Did you find the strength to say no? Where did you learn that? How do you see that helping you as a military officer? If you said “yes” to the not-so-ethical thing, what did you learn about yourself from the experience? Why did you give in? How will you guard against that in future?

 

[bopper]

Sometimes it is good to think about these things as an admissions person.

Would I like to read about a time that other kids were drinking and you found a way not to but also keep the other kids safe? (Ethical Dilemma)
Or that you applied again to this school? (setback)
Which would tell them more about how you would be in service?

Also how many other applicants might write about how they were setback by not getting into a SA?
ZZZ

You want to write only the essay you could write..not one about how we lost the basketball championship like zillions of other kids.