When there are kids out there reading How to Write a Winning College Application Essay and taking author Michael James Mason's College Essay Workshop, you can hardly afford to be left behind. Mason's method requires a lot of hard work, but, as he says in his introduction, "There is no shortcut to writing an essay you are proud to send to the colleges of your choice." Mason recommends putting aside two hours a night for two weeks straight to accomplish this onerous task, which in the long run isn't much of a hardship, considering the possible payoff. During those two weeks, you will come upon your best subject matter by exploring 26 different aspects of yourself. "You don't have to be a star scholar or a superhero to write a great application essay," Mason says. "You just have to show on paper that you know some things about yourself and that your life has meaning and perspective." Mason knows what admissions officers are looking for, and he knows what they dread (he happens to be married to one). This terrific book also includes insightful chapters on the SAT II: Writing Test, financial-aid essays, and graduate-school application essays. --Jane Steinberg --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Get into the College of Your Dreams

An original and creative essay is one of the keys to getting into the college you've always dreamed of, as well as to getting the financial aid you deserve. This book gives you everything you need to make your own unique talents shine in your college application essay. Even if writing is not your strong point, author Michael James Mason shows you:

·Exactly what admissions officers look for

·What works—and what doesn't, using actual student essays

·Proven techniques for writing your best essay

·Special tips for SAT and scholarship essays

·A last-minute checklist before you submit your essay

·And much more!

"Well written, very useful, and highly recommended." —Hunter's Guide to the College Guides

"Demystifies one of the most important and challenging parts of the college application process—the personal essay. . . . An invaluable resource!" —Gail Devine, director of college counseling, Louisville High School, Woodland Hills, California

"This book taught me what colleges look for in an essay and showed me how to effectively communicate my thoughts in writing." —Ryan Miller, University of Virginia graduate