Bringing Your Best Self to Your Truman Application: How to Ace Your Essay and Activities Resume
When it comes to applying to Truman State University, standing out from the crowd isn’t just about having top grades or the most extracurriculars; It’s about how well you tell your story and showcase the unique aspects of who you are. To help you craft the most compelling application, here are some expert tips on writing your essay and activities resume.
Making Your Activities Resume Pop
Your activities list is more than just a rundown of what you’ve done; it’s a chance to highlight how you’ve grown and what you’ve contributed to each role. Here’s how to make it stand out:
- Format it Like a Resume: A well-organized, professional-looking activities list makes a strong impression. Use bullet points, clear headings, and concise descriptions to keep it clean and easy to read.
- Highlight Leadership and Impact: For each activity, focus on your role and the impact you made. Did you lead a project, solve a problem, or help your team achieve something? Give us the specifics!
- Showcase Your Passion: Whether it’s a sport, a club, or volunteer work, emphasize the activities that you’re most passionate about. Admissions committees love to see dedication and enthusiasm.
- Include Unconventional Activities: Don’t limit yourself to school-sponsored activities. If you’ve pursued interests outside of school—like starting a blog, learning a language, or volunteering in your community—make sure to include them.
Crafting an Authentic and Impactful Essay
Your essay is your chance to speak directly to the admissions committee, offering a glimpse into your world beyond test scores and transcripts. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Be Genuine: Your essay should reflect your authentic self. Share stories that are meaningful to you—whether it’s a challenge you overcame, a passion you’ve pursued, or a unique perspective you bring. This is your space to show who you are.
- Focus on You: While it’s great to mention experiences or people who have influenced you, ensure that the essay centers around your thoughts, feelings, and growth. We want to understand your journey and how it has shaped you into the person you are today.
- Balance Seriousness with Personality: Don’t shy away from discussing significant life goals or deep reflections, but also feel free to sprinkle in light-hearted anecdotes. Whether it’s a quirky hobby or a funny experience, these personal touches can make your essay more memorable.
- Start Strong: Your opening should grab attention. Whether it’s a bold statement, a question, or a vivid image, make sure the first few sentences pull the reader in.
- Conclude with Purpose: Your conclusion should tie back to the main theme of your essay, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your values and ambitions.
Your application to Truman is your opportunity to showcase what makes you, you. Remember, it’s not just about what you’ve done, but how you’ve grown and what you’ve learned along the way. Good luck, and we can’t wait to see how you bring your story to life! – Ali
Allison Schweizer
Director of Admission