14 Sep Writing An Effective Common Application Essay
Brooklyn Letters
1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn
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We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old -
Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
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I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
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Excellent services, caring therapists.
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Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
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We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
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We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
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The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
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Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
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I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
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Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
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Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
Thanks to both for a job well done... -
Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
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Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
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One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
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I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
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Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
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I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
Kanu Patel -
We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
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Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
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My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
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I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
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Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
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Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
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Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
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As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them. -
We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
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We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
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Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
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Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
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The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
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I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
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We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
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The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
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Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
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We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.
WRITING AN EFFECTIVE COMMON APPLICATION ESSAY
The common application essay – often known as the “common app” – is integral to your application to multiple colleges and universities. This all-important essay lets you showcase your personality, experiences, and achievements beyond your academic abilities. In this blog post, we’ll explore numerous facets of the common application essay, from typical prompts and strategic approaches to tips and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re just starting your college application process or struggling to perfect your essay, this guide aims to provide the indispensable advice needed to create an impactful, memorable, common application essay.
When it comes to writing a common application essay, there are a variety of topics to choose from. One popular topic is discussing a problem you’ve solved or a problem you would like to solve. It can be anything from an intellectual challenge, a research query, or an ethical dilemma; if it’s important to you, then it’s a great topic to pick. Reflecting on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea is another great topic to explore. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again?
Describing a problem you’ve faced or a challenge you’ve overcome is another great topic to delve into. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? Another great topic to consider is discussing an experience that has changed your thoughts about the world. It could be a particular event or realization that sparked personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
If you’re looking for a more creative topic, consider discussing a topic, idea, or concept that you find so engaging that you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? Lastly, consider addressing the hardest part of being a teenager and what can be done to make it easier.
Choosing Your Common Application Essay Topic
Selecting the right common application essay topic is pivotal in your college application journey. Start by grasping the essay’s purpose, as it’s your chance to reveal a more personal dimension of yourself. Review the common app’s prompts thoughtfully, considering which aligns with your experiences and values. Reflect on your life, pivotal moments, and unique qualities. Aim to tell a compelling story that showcases your personality and growth. Be cautious about potentially controversial or overly dramatic subjects. Seek input from trusted sources, and ensure authenticity in your choice. Craft an engaging introduction, and, after writing, dedicate time to thorough revision and editing. Ultimately, your chosen topic should authentically represent you and tell a story that sets you apart.
Anecdote and Specificity
“Anecdote and Specificity” can be a compelling topic for a common application essay. It allows you to explore the power of storytelling and detail in conveying a meaningful message about your experiences, values, or personal growth.
In your essay, you could start with a vivid and engaging anecdote from your life, a moment that encapsulates a larger theme or lesson you want to convey. This anecdote serves as a hook to draw readers in. Then, you can delve into the specifics, using rich details and personal reflections to explore the significance of that moment.
This approach makes your essay engaging and allows you to demonstrate your storytelling skills and your ability to reflect on and analyze your experiences. It showcases your unique perspective and provides a memorable and meaningful narrative for the admissions committee to remember you by.
Tension, Conflict, and Opportunity to Show Growth
Tension, Conflict, and Opportunity to Show Growth is a thought-provoking and promising topic for a common application essay. This theme provides an avenue to explore how challenges and conflicts have shaped your personal development and allowed you to demonstrate resilience and growth.
This essay structure lets you showcase your ability to overcome challenges, learn from adversity, and demonstrate personal development. It provides insight into your character and how you handle difficult situations. It can be valuable for admissions committees to understand your potential to thrive in a college environment and beyond.
A Wider Relevance or a ‘Lesson’
“A Wider Relevance or a ‘Lesson'” is an intriguing and introspective topic for a common application essay. This theme invites you to reflect on a specific experience or insight and explore how it has broader implications or lessons beyond your personal life.
By choosing this topic, you have the opportunity to showcase a particular experience and demonstrate your ability to reflect deeply, draw connections, and think critically about the world around you. This type of essay can help admissions committees see how you engage with ideas and how you’ve grown due to your experiences.
A highly effective approach to crafting a successful college essay for your application is to draw inspiration from authentic, successful college essay examples.
Some Connection Between Your Past, Your Present, And Your Future
“Connection Between Your Past, Your Present, and Your Future” is a meaningful and introspective topic for a Common Application Essay. This theme allows you to explore the continuity and growth in your life by connecting pivotal moments from your past to your current aspirations and future goals.
This essay topic allows you to showcase your self-awareness, resilience, and capacity for growth. It demonstrates your ability to make meaningful connections between your life’s chapters and conveys a sense of purpose and direction to the admissions committee. Ultimately, it should give the reader a clear understanding of your journey and motivation for pursuing higher education.
Why Does The Common App Essay—And Any Other College Essay—Matter?
The common application essay is your chance to make a lasting impression on admissions officers and stand out among the thousands of college applicants vying for the same spot. It offers you the opportunity to showcase your unique personality and abilities, plus highlight any special talents or experiences that make you an attractive candidate. It allows you to explain any special circumstances that may have affected your academic performance or extracurricular activities and to demonstrate your ability to effectively communicate through writing, an important skill in college and beyond.
The common application essay can also provide insight into who you are and how you think. It can allow you to discuss any challenges you may face in college and how you plan to overcome them. It shows admissions officers that you have the focus and determination to succeed, even if obstacles are in your way.
The common application essay is more than just a chance to show off your writing skills. It is a chance to show the admissions officers your unique perspective and personality and demonstrate your commitment to college success. By crafting a thoughtful and meaningful essay, you can make sure that your application stands out from the rest.
How Can Themba Tutors’ College Application Essay Tutor Help?
Our dedicated team of professional tutors specializes in college application essays, offering tailored support to ensure your story shines, your voice is heard, and your dreams become a reality.
- Expert Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of college application essays, guiding you through the entire process.
- Personalized Feedback: Receive tailored feedback on your essay to identify strengths and weaknesses, helping you improve your writing and storytelling.
- Topic Selection: Get assistance in choosing the best essay topic that highlights your unique qualities and aligns with your goals and the college’s values.
- Editing and Proofreading: Polish your essay with expert editing, correcting errors and ensuring your writing is clear, concise, and meets application guidelines.
- Voice and Style: Find and refine your unique voice, ensuring your essay reflects your personality and stands out among other applicants.
Contact us today to schedule your first session and embark on the path to college success. Together, we’ll make your college dreams a reality!
Craig Selinger
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