What are some Common App essay mistakes I should avoid?

Let’s get one thing out of the way: your essay is not a second résumé. They already have your activities list, so don’t just rehash your wins like a greatest hits album. And definitely don’t write what you think they want to hear—that’s a fast track to sounding like a motivational poster. Skip the clichés (looking at you, “big game that taught me teamwork”) and steer clear of drama that doesn’t feel like you. Be real, be specific, and for everyone’s sake, keep an eye on the word count. Admissions officers are reading a lot of essays. The best ones are honest, focused, and sound like an actual human wrote them. Biggest red flag? When your essay reads like it was assembled by a chatbot in a suit. Let your voice lead, and make it a voice they’ll want to listen to.