Hi Amy and Stacy:

I've been looking around the forums for some advice on how to conquer the essay portion of the application. Maybe I have missed something, but I don't see any posts that go very in depth about the essays. I know that you continually say that strong essays are important, but would it be possible to explain a little more about what exactly admissions people are looking for?

To get me started, I have brainstormed ideas about strengths that I have and examples that could demonstrate those strengths. I am now looking at the essay questions and trying to figure out how those essays could best be constructed to paint the picture of myself that I would like portrayed. Is this a good process?

But, I'm still a little lost because there are small things that I'm not sure about. Like, is it ok to use humor in the essays? Do we want our personalies to come across as well as our abilities? Are there certain things that we must hit on and certain things that should be avoided? A different plan for someone like me with little work experience?

I'm sure there are many other questions that people have or maybe insights that you have. Would it be possible for you to let us know your perspective on the essay process?

Thanks so much!