🏫 College Advising

When advising a student on selecting a Common Application essay prompt, which strategy is most effective for ensuring the student writes an authentic and compelling essay?

A Recommend the prompt that seems easiest to answer or has the broadest scope.
B Suggest the student choose the prompt that allows them to share a story they are genuinely passionate about and reveals personal qualities.
C Advise them to pick the prompt that they believe admissions officers want to hear about most.
D Instruct them to select a prompt that allows them to list all their academic achievements and awards.

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Authenticity and genuine passion for a topic lead to more compelling and insightful essays that reveal a student's true personality and values, which is the essay's primary goal.

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