I thought I had it all figured out until I realized my supplemental essay was just a list of my achievements. It sounded so polished but felt completely hollow to me. The admissions reps can spot a generic essay from a mile away.
Initially, I focused way too much on what I thought they wanted to hear. I forgot to include my personal story—the messy part of my journey. When I finally rewrote it, I woven in my struggles and what I really learned from those experiences.
Looking back, I wish I had just been more authentic from the start. Don't be afraid to show some vulnerability; it makes your essay way more relatable and genuine.