Competition to get into colleges is fierce. Many applicants have solid GPAs and test scores, and similar leadership and volunteer experiences--so how do you rise above the crowd? In , author Jody Cohan-French shows you how to set yourself apart and present your unique potential through compelling application essays. As Jody says, "The key is to tell your story and reveal something distinguishing or memorable about yourself." This accessible guide explains how to interpret and break down essay prompts, tap into the engaging details of your topics, and break way from conventional structure to set your writing voice free. By studying example essays, you'll also learn how to self-edit, condense redundant content, and avoid the typical application essay pitfalls. will help you find that essay-writing groove and get on your way to the college and future you've worked so hard for.