Student Share Admissions Essays About Money, Economy, and Class

As the dust settles from the past admissions season, the conversations around the impact of the economic crisis on the student experience still abound. Today, Ron Lieber of the NYTimes published four student admission essays about the subject of class, money, and the economy. The title video essay by Lyle Lin is truly impressive.

I recommend any student who is thinking about writing their college essay this summer watch and digest this great essay. Here’s an excerpt:

“Instead of diplomas and accolades, my parents’ room emits a smell from the restaurant uniforms they wear seven days a week, all year round. It’s funny how I never see my mom in makeup, expensive jeans, lavish dresses, or even just casual, everyday clothing that I often see other moms wearing. Yet, one must possess something extraordinary to be able to stand in front of a cash register for 19 years and do so with pride and determination.”

I personally love essays like this that reflect on personal challenges, family history, one’s place in the United States/immigrant experiences. Of course, these subjects need to be authentic and reflect your values. Done well, these essays can be truly moving. My old boss, S. Abbot (currently working @ NYU), obviously was moved saying:

“His essay brought his family’s circumstance and background into Technicolor,” Mr. Abbott said. “He paints a very vivid picture of what life is really like in his home. I think he’s proud of his accomplishments and work ethic, but there’s also a humility each day when he takes off his preppy blue blazer in front of his mom.”

Very well done. Working with low SES Asian American students during my time as an admission officer was one of the most meaningful experiences of my career, and I hope that teachers and parents can support these students feel pride in their own experiences that prepares them for college.

Check out all of the essays that the NYT selected here. I also love that admissions officers from schools like NYU and Hamilton openly discussing why these essays worked and ensuring transparency in the system. I can understand why Princeton wouldn’t want to comment, because it can open the door to angry parents wanting explanations on why their child was rejected…but students should get some perspectives on what admissions officers are looking for.

Have a great weekend!