I Like This One: Writing Winning College Essays

Want to write a college essay that actually stands out?

This guide shows you how, step by step, with real examples.

Whether you're just starting or deep in revision mode, I Like This One gives you the inside scoop on what college essay readers actually want . . . and what they silently reject.

✍️ What You’ll Learn:

• What to Remember as a Writer
  A few core principles to keep your essay authentic, focused, and compelling.

• What Not to Do
  Common traps that sink otherwise strong essays, so you can avoid them.

• What to Do Instead
  Proven strategies to bring out your voice, structure your story, and make your essay memorable.

• The Three Tests Every Essay Must Pass
  These simple-but-powerful checkpoints will help you know if your essay is working.

💡 Includes Real Essay Examples:

• A successful essay from a former student

• An unforgettable piece written by a colleague

• Two personal essays from the author that pass The Three Tests

🧠 Whom This Is For:

• High school students writing their Common App or supplemental essays

• Parents or educators supporting students through the process

• Anyone who wants to write something that sounds real, not robotic or rehearsed

This is the book you’ll want open next to you as you write.
It will help you write an essay that will cause an admissions officer to say, "Yes. I like this one."