How can I highlight soft skills in my college essay?

Forget just saying you’re a great leader. Instead, show it. That’s the recipe for success. Don’t write “I’m responsible.” Rather, tell the story of the time you organized a school event, wrangled a dozen flaky volunteers, and pulled it off with zero chaos. Use vivid anecdotes that reveal your personality, your growth, and your reaction to challenges. Show your resilience through failure, your empathy through mentorship, or your adaptability in a tough transition. The essay is your chance to narrate your soft skills in action. Admissions officers want to meet the real you, and soft skills are your best introduction.