Writing Guidelines and Admission Requirements | Tech US News

It’s fall, so it’s time for freshmen to start filling out the Common Application if you plan to apply for Fall 2023 admission! The Common App is a fantastic resource that allows students to complete one application that is then sent to all the schools of their choice. CThe ommon app will prompt you to complete a few different aspects including an essay. There are a few different prompts to choose from:

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest or talent this is so important that they feel their application would be incomplete without it. If that sounds like you, then share your story.
2. The lessons we learn from the obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recall a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you and what did you learn from the experience?
3. Think about a time when you doubted or challenged a belief or idea. What got you thinking? What was the result?
4. Think of something someone did for you that made you happy or happy in a surprising way. How has this gratitude influenced or motivated you?
5. Talk about an achievement, event, or realization that triggered a period of personal growth and new understanding of yourself or others.
6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept that you find so compelling that you lose track of time. Why does it fascinate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to know more?
7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

In addition to your Common App essay, many colleges and universities, including Gonzaga, require an additional supplemental question. We don’t need it for Gonzaga’s question this should be the same length as your essay. This is instead a short answer question. The two prompts you can choose from are:

1. Please share an experience that made you feel uncomfortable or challenged, and then explain how you grew from that situation.
2. Share an experience you had outside the classroom that contributed to your personal growth.

Be sure to check spelling, punctuation, and grammar when completing the essay and supplementary question. It’s easy to miss little things when you write. I encourage students to have another person proofread their writing before submission to catch any mistakes they may have missed. When our admissions staff reviews your application, we’re looking for solid writing skills that you can demonstrate you’ve learned through years of English and writing courses. You don’t have to write a novel, but you dosubmit your best work!

Lucky like you perfect your application! Please contact your admissions counselor if you have any questions or concerns. To view our admissions staff and their territories/responsibilities, please see our Meet Your Counselor page.