College application essay should reveal your character

Q. I'm having trouble with the personal essay portion of the common application [to college]. Should I go with one of their questions or come up with my own topic? What's your advice on choosing a subject and writing this essay? Also, they mention that 250 words is the minimum. Is there a maximum? Will this essay really make or break my application?

M.C., Medford

A. The personal statement is a key part of an application that also includes a transcript, standardized test scores, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. Though it alone won't make or break you, it could be a deciding factor, particularly for an admissions committee faced with countless comparable students. With much of the so-called objective data out of your hands, it's important to invest considerable time, thought, and originality in the piece of the application that truly bears your signature.

The application's formal topics, which include evaluating a significant experience, weighing the influence of a historical figure, and reflecting on diversity, provide sufficient range and provocation. The final option "a topic of your choice" - explodes the parameters. Given this sort of freedom, specificity is key. You will need a narrow focus in order to write something substantive and revealing in 700 words, an appropriate length for the essay. You don't need a scene of high drama, Job-like adversity, or life-altering change to convey your character and demonstrate a talent for self-expression. Those topics tend to set the stage for windy, ponderous, immodest essays, obscuring rather than showcasing your unique voice. Consider a subject that captures and conveys a quality at the heart of your character, one not represented elsewhere in the application. For example, an examination of a daily ritual, uncommon hobby, or article of clothing could open another's eyes to your, say, generosity, compassion, or open-mindedness. Attempt a small narrative composed of detailed scenes that express the uniqueness of your vision, voice, and values. Realize that a little bit of abstract reflection goes a long way; resist the temptation to spell out the meaning of your subject; illustrate its significance through revealing detail, wit, tone, diction, metaphor, and juxtaposition. Enlist the help of an English teacher, if necessary.

I still recall essays by students who took some ordinary event and made of it a well-framed window to their character. One used his knowledge of landscaping to create an extended metaphor on the unglamorous work that precedes a perfect summer lawn. Another juxtaposed his readings of a playbook and birding guide to intersect his interests in football and ornithology. Trust your sense of enthusiasm; the essay should feel like a welcome opportunity, not a dull chore. Finally, know that proofreading trumps spell-checking and that grammar-check is a myth.

Q. My husband and I would like our son, a high school junior, to enroll in an after-school SAT prep course. He does pretty well on standardized tests, but could probably use some coaching. He's a "B+" student with a full schedule of sports and activities this year who doesn't want to add more time in a classroom to his day. We want him to have every opportunity possible when he applies to college next year, but we don't want to stress him out. Are these prep courses really helpful? Should we insist that he take one?

Ms. R, Boston

A. I would hesitate to fill what little breathing room remains in your son's schedule with an SAT prep course. Allow him the time to find a balance among his existing activities. Any additional course has limited value to the student who lacks time and inclination. Arguably, grades for the junior year weigh more than SAT scores; the bulk of his efforts should go into his course work. If your son's SAT scores this fall seem dramatically at odds with his classroom achievement, you could consider a prep course for the second semester or next summer. Prep courses tend to prey on students' and parents' anxiety about the big exam. Their instructors are often adept at teaching students the tricks of the SAT game - tips and strategies widely available in study guides.

A little bit of discipline, a book or practice exams, and a willingness to ask a teacher for help when necessary can benefit your son and keep his schedule manageable. More, he might consider applying to some of the great schools that don't require SAT scores. Have him meet with his guidance counselor to discuss that option.

Ron Fletcher teaches English at Boston College High. To submit a question, email rfletcher@bchigh.edu. Include your name, town, and e-mail address. Questions, upon request, can be printed anonymously. Ask the Teacher runs on alternate Sundays with Campus Insider, a roundup of higher education items.