COLLEGE ESSAY WORKSHOP
Register NowCOLLEGE ESSAY summer writing workshop
How important is the college essay?
Certainly the most important criteria for college admissions is the student’s GPA, strength of curriculum, and test scores (if required). However, when applying to colleges, especially selective schools, most applicants have similar academic profiles. So what else do colleges look at to determine admittance? Extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and the college essay/personal statement are factors which reveal character, personality, motivation, and fit for the college.
You have a unique background, interests and personality. The college essay is your chance to tell your story or, at least, part of it. The best way to tell your story is to write a personal, thoughtful essay about something that has meaning for you. Be honest and genuine, and your unique qualities will shine.
Admissions officers have to read an unbelievable number of college essays, most of which are forgettable. Many students try to sound academic rather than sounding like themselves. Others write about a subject which they think will impress admissions officers but has no personal value.
The college essay can set you apart from others and allow college admissions to look at you beyond numbers. It can be the determining factor of matriculation into the school of your choice.
COURSE
DESCRIPTION
The two weeklong Essay Workshop begins in a dynamic, small virtual setting*, then moves to individual virtual meetings to complete the entire essay process. From the development of an original and compelling idea, to the drafting and revision process, every student will benefit from a professional review, and will leave the workshop with a vivid and meaningful College Application Essay. Each class will have a maximum of 30 students.
Here are the topics covered in the virtual classroom setting:
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Importance of the essay and what admissions counselors are looking for in it
- Common Application Essay Topics and Supplemental Essays: Including often written topics and recent topics
- Sample College Essays will be read and analyzed
- Writing techniques
- Revision and General Rules for Writing and Grammar
- Personal Writing Style and Voice
- Personal Assessment Prompts to help with ideas for topics
Individual Meetings
- Students will have two or three (depends on student’s needs) individual virtual meetings with their instructor.
- All virtual meetings will be done in Zoom and students will have opportunities to choose dates/times.
- Students are responsible to sign up for individual meetings which typically last 20-30 minutes.
Typical Class Schedule
- Monday: Virtual Classroom Setting
- Wednesday/Thursday: Virtual Meeting with instructor to discuss topic selection
- Sunday: 5pm Rough Draft is due. Instructor will review and return to students by Tuesday at 5pm.
- Wednesday/Thursday: Virtual Meeting with instructor to discuss rough draft.
- Saturday: 5pm final draft is due.
- Sunday/Monday: Virtual meeting with instructor if needed.
WORKSHOPS
Each class will have a maximum of 15-30 students. The exact number will depend on the instructor’s preference.
Cost per student: $330
SESSION I
July 9th-22nd
DAVID TANSKI
Instructor of American and British Literature at La Salle Academy, 2005 – Present. M.Ed. Providence College
SESSION II
July 30th-August 12th
DAVID TANSKI
Instructor of American and British Literature at La Salle Academy, 2005 – Present. M.Ed. Providence College
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What if I can’t attend the virtual class on Monday night?
No problem, the class will be recorded so you can watch at your convenience. However, we recommend you’re able to view it by Tuesday, so you don’t fall behind.
Does the instructor sign me up for my individual virtual meetings?
No, students are responsible to choose a time. We offer two days to choose from for each meeting time so students have flexibility to fit their needs.
What if I register and pay for the class, then decide to cancel?
You can cancel with a full refund up to one week prior to the start of class. After that you may choose another class (if open), otherwise there are no refunds.
Is the instructor responsible for the final draft?
The instructor will provide advice and support in the choice of topics and the entire process of writing, but students are responsible for drafting on their own and completing the final essay.
How do I secure a spot in the class, since it was sold out last year?
You need to register and pay in full to secure your spot in class. Once 25 students register we will offer a wait list.