Are optional college essays really optional?

Optional essays may help schools differentiate between students with similar qualifications. In addition, a strong “optional” essay gives the admissions officer more information to consider in their decision. However, there is at least one exception to the “rule” that optional essays aren’t really optional.

Does the college essay really matter?

While many students stress over their essays, it’s important to remember that this is just one component of the admissions process, and rarely the decisive factor. That doesn’t mean that the essay is unimportant; it does give you an opportunity to directly make your case to the admissions committee.

Should I do the Harvard optional essay?

The Harvard supplement essay, as it’s known, is completely optional—you may, but do not need to, write this essay and submit it with your application. Also, this essay also has no word limit, though if you do write it, it’s best to stick to a typical college essay length (i.e., somewhere around 500 words).

Should I answer optional questions?

Not answering an optional essay can decrease your chances of being accepted to a school. A Northwestern admissions rep, for instance, said regarding their optional essay that they don’t accept anyone who chooses not to write it.

How do you not start a college essay?

Here are five ways not to open your essay, in other words, what’s more likely to lose a reader’s interest.

An introduction to your story. Imagine you were telling a friend a story about life as a pitcher on the baseball team.
A famous quote.
A definition.
What the heck?
Anything that would show up on Google.

How can we improve our vocabulary?

7 Ways to Improve Your Vocabulary

Develop a reading habit. Vocabulary building is easiest when you encounter words in context.
Use the dictionary and thesaurus.
Play word games.
Use flashcards.
Subscribe to “word of the day” feeds.
Use mnemonics.
Practice using new words in conversation.

What should I read to improve my vocabulary?

7 Novels to Read for a Better Vocabulary

The Count of Monte Cristo. Alexandre Dumas’ famous adventure novel explores the classic, timeless themes of betrayal, hope, and vengeance, as well as the consequences of those actions.
Shakespearean Plays.
Love in the Time of Cholera.
Game of Thrones.
Gulliver’s Travels.
Ulysses.
Slaughterhouse Five.

How can students improve their vocabulary?

How To Improve Students’ Vocabulary Using Innovative Ways

FLASHCARDS. One effective way to master the rote-learning aspect of words and ensure that they stick in your students’ memory is by using flashcards.
WORD MAPS.
PRONUNCIATION GUIDES.
MNEMONIC TOOLS.
ROOT WORDS, PREFIXES, AND SUFFIXES.

How do you speak intelligently?

9 Speaking Habits That Make You Sound Smarter.
Stand or sit with spine straight but relaxed.
Keep your chin up.
Focus on your listeners.
Speak loudly enough to be heard.
Buttress words with appropriate gestures.
Strategically position your body.
Use vivid words that everyone understands.

How do you speak elegantly?

How to speak with elegance:

Smile often and make eye contact.
Speak clearly and avoid using slang that isn’t familiar to the people you are talking to.
Avoid being a drama queen.
Don’t constantly brag about yourself.
Don’t provide too much personal information.
Be a good conversationalist.

What is a word for having a hard time putting thoughts?

Dysgraphia can make it hard to express thoughts in writing. (You may hear it called “a disorder of written expression.”) Expressive language issues make it hard to express thoughts and ideas when speaking and writing. (You may hear it called a “language disorder” or a “communication disorder.”)

How can I speak professionally when speaking?

Speak Like a Professional

Use short, clear, declarative sentences. Short sentences focus your message and make it easier for your audience to follow.
Speak in the active tense. Own your actions.
Stay calm under pressure.
Speak naturally.
Say what you mean.
Focus on what matters to your audience.
Be specific.