15 Sep The Oddball Questions In College Application Essays
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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! -
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.
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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. -
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. -
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. -
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!! -
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! -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
THE ODDBALL QUESTIONS IN COLLEGE APPLICATION ESSAYS
The college application process is fraught with anxiety and anticipation. Amid compiling transcripts, perfecting a resume, and obtaining sterling recommendation letters, there lies the intimidating task of writing the dreaded college application essay. However, what bemuses applicants are the unexpected, offbeat questions that certain colleges toss into their application process. From philosophical riddles to queries about personal quirks, these questions showcase the strange side of college application essays.
This blog post will dive into some of the oddest prompts that have baffled students and offer guidance on tackling them with creativity and finesse.
What Are Oddball Questions?
“Oddball Questions” in college application essays are unique and unconventional essay prompts that some colleges and universities include in their application process. These questions are designed to challenge applicants unexpectedly and elicit creative, thoughtful, and sometimes playful responses. While the specific questions can vary widely from year to year and from one institution to another, they are typically open-ended and encourage applicants to think outside the box. The goal is often to assess an applicant’s creativity, critical thinking skills, and ability to respond to unexpected challenges.
Examples of “Oddball Questions” might include:
- University of California, Berkeley (2022-2023): “You are holding a ticket. Where will it take you?”
- Yale University (2022-2023): “Reflect on an idea or experience that has been important to your intellectual development.”
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2022-2023): “What is your comfort food and why?”
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech) (2022-2023): “Share a moment when kindness guided your actions.”
- University of Maryland (2022-2023): “You are stranded on a deserted island. What five books, movies, or albums would you take with you?”
- University of Notre Dame (2022-2023): “You have 150 words. Take a risk.”
- Oberlin College (2022-2023): “What’s your favorite ride at the amusement park? Why?”
- University of Michigan (2022-2023): “If you could only do one of the activities you listed in the Activities section of your Common Application, which would you keep doing? Why?”
These questions allow applicants to showcase their personality, creativity, and ability to think on their feet. While they may seem unconventional, they are an integral part of some college applications and offer an opportunity for applicants to stand out. It’s essential to approach these questions authentically and provide thoughtful, engaging responses that give admissions committees a glimpse into your character and unique perspective.
Reasons Why Universities Include Oddball Questions In Their Application Essays
When it comes to college admission essays, many schools are now asking applicants to answer “Oddball Questions” in their application essays for several reasons.
Here are the top 7 reasons why universities include Oddball Questions” in their application essays:
1. Creativity Assessment: These questions allow universities to assess applicants’ creativity, imagination, and ability to approach challenges from unconventional angles.
2. Personality and Character Evaluation: “Oddball Questions” provide insight into an applicant’s personality, character, and sense of humor.
3. Differentiation: In a highly competitive applicant pool, universities use these questions to differentiate among qualified candidates.
4. Holistic Assessment: Admissions committees aim for a holistic evaluation of applicants, considering not only academic achievements but also personal qualities, interests, and potential contributions to campus life.
5. Engagement and Enthusiasm: The unconventional nature of these questions often elicits passionate and enthusiastic responses.
6. Problem-Solving Skills: Some “Oddball Questions” present applicants with puzzles or hypothetical scenarios that require creative problem-solving.
7. Encouragement of Authenticity: By prompting applicants to respond in unconventional ways, “Oddball Questions” encourage authenticity.
Incorporating “Oddball Questions” into the application process allows universities to gain deeper insights into applicants’ personalities, perspectives, and potential contributions to campus life. It also adds an element of fun and engagement to the application process, making it more enjoyable for both applicants and admissions committees.
How Should You Approach Answering Oddball Questions In Your Application Essay?
Answering “Oddball Questions” in your college application essays requires a distinct and thoughtful approach. Start by comprehending the question’s nuances and intent, ensuring you understand precisely what it seeks. Then, brainstorm creative responses, exploring unique angles and experiences that can make your answer stand out. However, authenticity remains paramount; your response should reflect your genuine personality, interests, and values.
Craft your response as a compelling narrative, employing storytelling techniques to engage the reader and make your essay memorable. Creativity is encouraged, so don’t hesitate to think outside the box and, when appropriate, infuse humor or playfulness. Use descriptive language and personal insights to convey your perspective, showing rather than telling. Connect your response to the university you’re applying to, highlighting aspects of the institution that resonate with your answer.
Remember to edit and revise meticulously, seeking feedback from trusted mentors. Reflect deeply on the topic if required, going beyond surface-level observations. Always maintain respect and appropriateness in your response, avoiding controversial or offensive content. By approaching “Oddball Questions” with enthusiasm and a unique perspective, you can seize this opportunity to make a memorable impression on the admissions committee.
Do Oddball Questions Influence The College’s Decision To Accept Your Application?
Oddball essay questions, while unconventional, can play a role in influencing a college’s decision to accept your application. Here’s how:
1. Demonstrating Creativity and Uniqueness: Admissions committees often value students who can approach challenges with innovation and a fresh perspective. A well-executed oddball essay can highlight your creativity and uniqueness, positively influencing your perception of yourself as an applicant.
2. Personal Insight and Authenticity: Oddball Questions may encourage applicants to share personal anecdotes, experiences, or reflections that provide deeper insight into their character, values, and interests. This authenticity can help admissions committees get to know you more personally beyond your academic achievements and extracurricular activities.
3. Memorability: Admissions committees review numerous applications, and a memorable essay can make you more distinguishable in their minds, potentially increasing your chances of being remembered during the selection process.
4. Fit with Institutional Culture: A thoughtful response that connects your experiences or interests to the institution’s can demonstrate your fit and genuine interest in attending that college.
While oddball essays can positively influence your application, they are typically just one component of a holistic admissions process. It’s essential to approach all parts of your application, including more traditional elements like grades and standardized test scores, with the same level of care and attention. Ultimately, the decision to accept your application depends on a combination of factors, and oddball essays are just one piece of the puzzle.
How Can Themba Tutors’ College Application Essay Tutor Help?
Themba Tutors college application essay tutors are indispensable allies for addressing “Oddball Questions” in your college applications. Our tutors offer extensive expertise, beginning with a deep understanding of the unique question. We excel at breaking down the intricacies, intent, and themes within the oddball prompt to ensure your complete comprehension.
Moreover, Themba Tutors fosters creativity through tailored brainstorming sessions, helping you generate innovative ideas that captivate admissions committees. We assist in personalizing your response by identifying aspects of your background, experiences, or interests that align with the question and the college’s values. Crafting compelling narratives is our forte, ensuring your response is structured effectively and engages the reader. Creativity is encouraged, and we guide you in striking the right balance between authenticity and the demands of the question.
Furthermore, meticulous editing, proofreading, and collaborative revisions guarantee a polished, error-free response that effectively conveys your ideas. Themba Tutors also helps you manage time effectively and create an application strategy that ensures your oddball question response complements your entire application.
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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