College Application Essays: The New Era
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the academic landscape in ways no one could have predicted. From school closures to unequal access to online resources, many students faced serious disruption. But perhaps one of the most enduring academic challenges today is writing the college application essay—a task that now carries even more weight.
Writing in a Post-Pandemic World
College admissions officers are looking for authenticity. They want essays that reflect honesty, thoughtfulness, and a willingness to be vulnerable. Unfortunately, many students fall into the trap of exaggerating experiences or submitting predictable stories.
While your personal experience during the pandemic may have been difficult, it’s important to approach that narrative with compassion and perspective. Around the world, countless students continue to face extreme poverty, conflict, and lack of basic resources. Rather than focusing solely on hardships like limited access to tech during remote learning, students should aim to demonstrate awareness, empathy, and growth.
“What makes your story unique is not just what happened, but how you grew because of it.”
Harvard University Baker Library at Harvard Business School (HBS). Photograph by Ryan Young, Presidio Education® Founder & CEO, 2018.
Show Transparency, Not Perfection
College essays are not the place to boast. Instead, they’re a rare opportunity to show your human side—your challenges, flaws, and growth. Sharing a moment where you made a mistake and learned from it can show maturity, humility, and emotional intelligence.
Be careful, though: admissions officers read thousands of essays every year. They’re experts at spotting rehearsed or insincere writing. Genuinely reflecting on your experiences will make a more lasting impression than trying to game the system.
Apply Early to Stay Competitive
The number of college applications continues to rise dramatically, while many admissions teams remain small and overburdened. Even top-tier schools can only review so many applications in full before hitting their internal quotas. Submitting early can significantly increase your chances of receiving a thorough review.
Here’s a snapshot of how competitive college admissions have become:
The table below shows four (4) sample undergraduate schools with the number of applicants and accepted students for the class of 2027. Sources: Harvard University, 2023; New York University, 2023; UC Berkeley, 2023; and UCLA, 2023.
| College Acceptance Rates for Class of 2027 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate School | Applicants | Accepted | Acceptance Rate | |
| Harvard University | 56,937 | 1,942 | 3.4% | |
| New York University | 120,000 | 5,700 | 4.75% | |
| University of California, Berkeley | 125,910 | 14,566 | 11.56% | |
| University of California, Los Angeles | 169,800 | 12,779 | 7.52% | |
Want to stay ahead of deadlines? Check out our current class registration schedule.
Revision Is Non-Negotiable
Essay writing is a process. Your first draft is only the beginning. Revision builds clarity and helps you discover deeper insights about your goals and values. Every detail matters—tone, flow, grammar, and originality.
At Presidio Education®, we work closely with students to refine their college essays through targeted revision, critical feedback, and expert coaching. We help students find their authentic voice—without sacrificing writing quality.
Be Bold, Be Visionary
Don’t shy away from big dreams. Even if you’re undecided on a major or career path, admissions officers want to see what excites and motivates you. How will you engage with their campus? What causes move you? What change do you want to create?
College is not just about academics—it’s about the communities you’ll join and the problems you’ll help solve. Whether it's reducing waste on campus or fighting for educational equity, showing purpose and initiative can set you apart.
Need help transforming your passions into a powerful narrative? Our English Writing programs teach students to write with clarity, creativity, and confidence.
Beach Cleanup at Lung Kwu Tan, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong with Wayne Man, Presidio Education® Math & Social Science Teacher, and Advanced Placement (AP) students Bobby Li and Daniel Shi. Source: Presidio Education, 2021.
Specificity Is Power
Generic essays don’t leave lasting impressions. Rather than writing broadly about your achievements or goals, explain why you want to attend a particular college. Reference specific professors, departments, resources, or programs. Admissions officers want to know that you’ve done your research and that you’re truly invested in their institution.
You Are More Than Your Scores
Grades and test scores matter, but your character matters more. Colleges want well-rounded students—those who contribute to communities, initiate projects, and care deeply about something beyond themselves. What causes do you care about? How have you grown as a leader or team member?
Use your essay to show that you’re more than a transcript. You’re a thinker, a builder, a dreamer.
Mary Liu, Sustainability Team Gender Equality Leader, carrying supplies in Hollywood, Los Angeles, USA. Photograph by Isaac Ng, Sustainability Team, 2022.
Ready to start?
Our faculty offers individualized support on college essays, Common App guidance, and strategic storytelling. We help students submit thoughtful, powerful applications that reflect their highest potential.
To get started, complete our Private Class Registration Form. Good luck, seniors!
