Recycling Essays

[NeinWunOne]

Hello,

I am looking for a general $0.02 on recycling essays provided they were strong essays.

I was a Wharton applicant for the 2010 entry year. I had a fairly strong appliaction overall and was given an interview. Although I was denied admission post-interview, I now know which areas to shore up. Regarding this year's application, one of the questions is a repeat from last year.

My question is this: I would like to know what is your take, in general, on reusing essays from previous years on the same application.

On one hand, since they have access to last year's application, recycling an essay (theme, topic) provides little or no new value to add to the previous year. But on the other hand, admissions has always noted that the application must stand on itself and can't rely on them to read previous year's apps. I felt this essay was one of my strongest essays.

[Stacey Oyler]

Hi,

Thanks for your post. This is a common question that many reapplicants face. You are correct in that the adcom will have access to your file from last year and will likely read their overall comments on the decision rendered if not all the essays as well.

I agree that adcoms are looking for solid, stand alone applications, but they are also looking for growth and/or improvement from the previous application. If you were not offered up feedback they are depending on your to be introspective and determine your weakness(es) from your previous application. They aren't looking for a "new you," because honestly, that would be a bit strange if you came back with all new ideas and topics. However, if you do choose to recycle and essay, be sure it's the topic that is recycle and not the exact same essay. I suggest that you can use the same topic, but rewrite it to give your new perspective or add new insight. Don't just take the old one and make changes, but rather start fresh.

I hope this helps. Best of luck.

Stacey