College admissions essays are an opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique personalities and stand out from the crowd. While there are many different approaches that students can take, one of the most powerful and relatable techniques that a student might try is the use of analogies. Analogies are comparisons between two things that are seemingly unrelated but share a commonality.
Analogies are particularly effective in college essays because they help to simplify complex ideas and make them more relatable to the reader. They can also bring a sense of humor and lightheartedness to an otherwise serious and formal piece of writing (remember, admissions officers can read hundreds of personal statements per week, you want yours to stand out!), and can help to add a touch of personality to an essay.
One great example of the power of analogies in college essays comes from when we visited a liberal arts college that will go unnamed. The admissions officer answered a question about what makes a great college essay. They responded that one of the most memorable essays from the past season was from a student who was on a quest to find the best lobster roll. The student found a lobster roll that was simple, just like themselves. They compared themselves to a lobster roll, stating that they are "traditional like a lobster roll." This analogy was not only relatable but also memorable. I would presume that that admissions officer also shared an affinity for lobster rolls. And maybe that’s why it also stuck in our mind (living in Maine!).
This type of approach can help students to find their own voice in their writing and allow them to showcase their personality in a unique and engaging way. In conclusion, analogies are a powerful tool in college essay writing because they make complex ideas relatable, add a touch of personality, and help students to find their own voice. If you are struggling to find the right words for your college essay, consider using an analogy to help bring your message to life.
Remember, most important is to develop and write in your own authentic voice. If an analogy feels forced or not ‘you’ then take a pass! Have more questions related to college essay writing and how to make yours stand out? Get in touch with us!