How to Write a Winning College Application Essay, Revised 3rd Edition

by Michael James Mason

Book Overview

Seniors in high school start feeling stressed at the mere thought of writing the college application essay. They well know the role this crucial document plays in getting into their university of choice. What they may not know is that there is a right way and a wrong way to writing the essay. ?I've noticed some recurrent bad habits that have hurt otherwise good essays and I have added mention of them throughout the book,? says Michael James Mason, author of How to Write a Winning College Application Essay. ?A student doesn't have to be a star scholar or a superhero to write a great application essay. They just have to show on paper that they know some things about themselves and that life has meaning and perspective.'In How to Write a Winning College Application Essay, Mason teaches students how to put their best image on paper while letting the essay speak from their heart about what life means to them. Since the publication of the first two editions of his practical manual, thousands of students across the nation have used his techniques in the process of writing their personal statements for college and graduate school. ?Thousands of good students have been accepted into colleges of their choice because their essays were honest, moving and sensitive. Their essays revealed their values, insights and spirit,? says Mason.About the Author Michael James Mason has helped thousands of students at his College Essay Workshops and in previous editions of this book. In writing the third edition to this popular book, he looked to the experiences of real students and admissions officials, the people who write and read the essays in college applications. He lives in Marina Del Ray, California.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0761510168
• ISBN13: 9780761510161
• Release Date: May 1997
• Publisher: Prima Lifestyles
• Length: 221 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.5" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Great guide

This book is very helpful in forming a coherent, persuasive and meaningful application statement. Michael Mason was my senior AP English teacher, and speaking with him in person is even more beneficial! If possible take one of his writing workshops, he is one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. If you can't find a workshop to take, at least pick up the book!

If you don't know where to start, start here

This best part of this book is that it has a large section (50+ pages) on how to gather the raw material on your life that can help you find the material for your essay. If you have no idea who your hero is or what adversity you've overcome, this will help you find your story and the supporting antecdotes that make your essay stand out. Mason also gives very specific instructions on how to write a good essay. This would be a good book for someone who wants some guidance turning ideas into a workable essay. It also has short chapters in writing essays for the SAT II English test, graduate school admissions and scholarship essays.

A helpful book

Of the many books on college that I've brought home for my offspring to look at, _How to Write a Winning College Application Essay_ is the first that my daughter read. The book is well organized and has interesting topics. My favorite was the chapter of essays gone wrong, and the intelligent discussion of what went wrong with them. My daughter spent hours on the writing exercises--though she hates her writing about herself--and I think they helped her. The tone of this book is helpful, not the least bit condescending, as it points out errors of content, style and tone that can hurt the applicant's chances.

my story

MY name is.... I was born and raised here. I have 2 brothers and 3 sisters. I know that if i get accepted into this college or one like it I will do my best and keep my grades up. I have a 3.725 right know in middle school for my G.P.a and right know i'm working on getting my 4.0 and see if i can keep it all the way through high-school. I would be honered to be accepted into this college and do my very best for you. well please read this very carefully i have never had to write anything like this or actually i haven't been taught how yet. I just started writing out of my head and tryed to figure it out by myself if you could, could you maybe help me out if I am way out of reach with this thank you....

Talking about awsomeness

This book has greatly helped me out. I mean, this is simply the best book for people who have questions regarding personal statements. The techniques, the attention grabbers, the rules, and the humanity shockers all those are shockingly persuasive, and it difinitely improves my chances of getting into UCLA. Thancks Mason.