College Application Essays and Personal Statements

Undocumented students bring unique experiences and perspectives that can enrich their college applications. However, it is not necessary to include experiences as an undocumented student in college application essays if it does not show the qualities you want to highlight. Crafting a compelling essay requires thoughtful reflection, ensuring that your story highlights who you are and what you value in a meaningful and authentic way.

1. Focus on Who You Are and What You Value

   • Colleges are most interested in understanding your personality, values, and how your experiences have shaped your character. Before starting your essay, ask yourself:

     • What kind of person am I?

     • What do I truly care about?

     • What do I want colleges to know about me that they can’t see from my grades or extracurriculars?

   • If your undocumented status is a significant part of your identity, consider how it has shaped the person you are today. For example:

     • Has it taught you resilience or resourcefulness?

     • Has it influenced the way you view fairness, opportunity, or community?

   • Remember, your story isn’t just about being undocumented; it’s about who you’ve become because of your experiences.

2. Tell a Story That Reflects Your Values

   • Choose a specific moment or experience that illustrates your growth or demonstrates qualities you want to highlight.

   • For example, instead of saying, “I value hard work,” describe a time when you worked tirelessly to overcome an obstacle, whether it was advocating for yourself, helping your family, or excelling in academics despite challenges.

   • Make sure your values come through naturally. For instance:

     • If you value education, write about how learning has empowered you in difficult circumstances.

     • If you value community, share how your experiences have inspired you to give back or support others.

3. Avoid Writing About It Just Because It’s a Big Part of Your Life

   • Being undocumented may feel like the defining aspect of your life, but it doesn’t have to define your essay unless you want it to.

   • Think critically about whether this topic aligns with the version of yourself you want to present. If it does, focus on the qualities you’ve developed, not just the circumstances themselves.

Responding to Non-Personal Statement Prompts

1. Answer the Question Fully

   • Many colleges design prompts to assess specific qualities, such as leadership, creativity, or collaboration. Make sure your response addresses the prompt directly rather than forcing prewritten pieces to fit where it may not be relevant.

   • Reusing written responses could potentially save you sometimes but it might lower the quality of your writing. Colleges will not know how long it took you to write the response, they can only learn about you through what you submit. 

2. Use Supplemental Essays to Show Other Sides of Yourself

   • Supplemental essays are an opportunity to highlight different aspects of your personality and interests. Use these prompts to discuss your passions, goals, or experiences unrelated to your immigration status.

   • Think about:

     • Hobbies or extracurriculars you’re passionate about.

     • Moments that shaped your leadership, creativity, or perseverance.

     • Future aspirations and how college will help you achieve them.

General Writing Tips

1. Reflect Deeply Before Writing

   • Take time to consider what you want colleges to know about you. Think about:

     • What moments in your life have shaped your character?

     • What do you value most, and how do you live those values?

     • How will your background contribute to a college community?

2. Show, Don’t Tell

   • Bring your qualities to life through storytelling. Instead of saying, “I am determined,” write about a specific instance where your determination helped you achieve something meaningful.

3. Be Authentic

   • Write in your own voice and share what feels true to you. Colleges value honesty and individuality, so don’t feel pressured to write what you think they want to hear.

4. Seek Feedback

   • Share your essay with teachers, counselors, or mentors who understand your story and can provide constructive feedback. They can help you refine your message and ensure it reflects who you are.

Final Thoughts

Your college essays are an opportunity to show who you are beyond your grades and achievements. If your undocumented status is central to your story, write about it in a way that highlights your values, resilience, and aspirations. At the same time, remember that your identity is multifaceted. Use your essays to share the full picture of who you are—a unique, determined, and thoughtful individual ready to contribute to a college community.