Essays

[sg1928]

Hi,

I took my GMAT few days back and my score is 720 (q51, v36). Hmmm...my verbal score is lower than what i expected. I don't plan to take GMAT any sooner because deadlines are very near and I would like to focus on my apps.

I am expecting my AWA to be ranging from 4.5-5.5. So in any case, my essays play a very major role in my application. This is the first time I am writing essays for admissions, so this looks pretty confusing. What should I write and how do I convey within the word limit are the questions haunting me. I would like to know if there is anyone to help me with my essays. I am not on the look for someone who can write essays for me. I am looking for someone who can help me in stitching my thoughts. Please respond.

Thanks,

[Graham]

Dear sg1928,

Thanks for your post!

Given that your GMAT result is skewed towards the quantitative side of things (I'm guessing around 78% on the verbal, 98% on math), you are correct in assuming that the adcom may look carefully at your essays, the interview component as well as what the recommenders have to say about you in this regard. This will be compounded if you have a 'techie'/'numbers person' profile.

As to the essays, there are a number of firms serving as moderators in this forum who offer essay editing services (full disclosure: I work for one of them, Clear Admit). Most of the companies offer a free initial assessment via phone if you contact them with your resume.

In the meantime, you might also want to look at the Clear Admit essay topic analyses that we publish (available for free on our web site), as these tips can be helpful for breaking down the essays and determining the best approach. In fact, the director of admissions at Chicago Booth recently directed Chicago applicants to our site and recommended that they read our analysis of their essay questions.

Our essay topic analyses page:
https://blog.clearadmit.com/category/ess ... -analysis/

U. Chicago's Mention of Clear Admit:
https://www.chicagobooth.edu/gsbconnect/ ... egoryID=81

Best of luck,

Graham