College Essays: The Difference Between an Acceptance or Denial

In the fiercely competitive world of college admissions, where top-tier universities and Ivy League schools receive countless applications from high-achieving students, the importance of essays cannot be overstated. While strong grades, impressive test scores, and notable accomplishments are essential, it is through the essays that you have the opportunity to truly distinguish yourself. Essays hold the key to determining what unique contributions you can make to a campus and whether you deserve one of those coveted spots above other applicants. It's not just about finding the best essay topics; it's about crafting them in a way that leaves nothing to chance.

As thousands of applications flood admissions offices, it becomes clear that relying solely on grades and scores is not sufficient to stand out. Admissions officers seek individuals who will enrich their campus communities with their perspectives, experiences, and passions. They want to see your authentic self, beyond the numbers, and essays provide the perfect avenue for showcasing your personality and potential impact.

Through essays, you have the opportunity to reveal who you are as an individual. It's a chance to let your voice shine and present your story in a compelling and authentic manner. By sharing personal anecdotes, reflecting on meaningful experiences, and articulating your aspirations, you can demonstrate the depth of your character and what sets you apart from other applicants.

Admissions officers invest significant time in reading essays because they understand that this is where you have the opportunity to make an indelible impression. Your essays become your advocate, speaking on your behalf, and illustrating why you deserve a place at their institution. When crafting your essays, it's crucial to be genuine, engaging, and captivating. Grab their attention from the first sentence and keep them hooked until the very end.

Colleges want students who will contribute positively to their campus communities, both academically and socially. Use your essays to highlight your passions, aspirations, and the ways in which you will make a difference. Show how your unique skills, interests, or experiences align with the institution's values and opportunities. Paint a vivid picture of how you will leave an indelible mark during your time there.

To create powerful essays, it is important to invest time and effort in the writing process. Start early, brainstorm extensively, and revise diligently. Seek feedback from trusted mentors, teachers, or family members who can provide valuable insights. Ensure that your essays are not only well-written but also strategically crafted to align with each college's specific values and mission.

In the competitive landscape of college admissions, essays play a pivotal role in setting you apart from other applicants. While grades, test scores, and accomplishments may demonstrate your academic prowess, it is through the essays that you have the opportunity to reveal your true self and demonstrate the potential impact you can make on a college campus. So, as you start on your essay writing journey, remember to find compelling topics and write with unwavering passion and authenticity. Your essays are your ticket to standing out and securing a coveted spot at your dream college. Embrace the power of your words and leave no chance unturned.

-content-field="published-on"],.blog-item-wrapper header h1,article header h1){display:none!important} body.tii-blog-title-live .tii-blog-native-hidden{display:none!important} :is(html,body).sqs-edit-mode-active #tii-blog-article-title,:is(html,body).sqs-site-styles-active #tii-blog-article-title{display:none!important} :root{--tii-n0:#04101f;--tii-n1:#0a1e37;--tii-n2:#0e2745;--tii-gold:#ead49f;--tii-blue:#8fb7df} .tii-detective-blog-hero,.tii-detective-blog-hero *{box-sizing:border-box} .tii-detective-blog-hero{position:relative;left:50%;width:100vw;max-width:none;margin:0 0 0 -50vw;overflow:hidden;isolation:isolate;contain:layout paint style;background:radial-gradient(circle at 78% 24%,rgba(78,131,188,.27),transparent 31%),radial-gradient(circle at 18% 70%,rgba(213,181,111,.17),transparent 31%),linear-gradient(145deg,var(--tii-n0),var(--tii-n1) 54%,var(--tii-n2))} @supports(overflow:clip){.tii-detective-blog-hero{overflow:clip}} .tii-detective-blog-hero::after{content:"";position:absolute;z-index:0;inset:auto 0 0;height:190px;pointer-events:none;background:linear-gradient(to top,rgba(4,16,31,.72),rgba(4,16,31,.32) 46%,transparent)} .tii-db-body{position:relative;z-index:2;width:min(1320px,calc(100% - 64px));margin:auto} .tii-db-copy{position:relative;z-index:3;width:68%;padding:36px 18px 30px 24px;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:15px;border-bottom:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.12);contain:layout style} .tii-db-kicker-row{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:10px;flex-wrap:wrap;margin-top:30px} .tii-db-chip,.tii-db-status,.tii-db-meta-item{background:rgba(255,255,255,.09);border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.20)} .tii-db-chip,.tii-db-status,.tii-db-pulse-note{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;gap:8px;font-size:10px;letter-spacing:.15em;text-transform:uppercase;white-space:nowrap} .tii-db-chip,.tii-db-status{padding:8px 12px;border-radius:999px;color:#fff}.tii-db-chip{transform:translateX(-5%)}.tii-db-pulse-note{color:rgba(255,255,255,.76)} .tii-db-status-dot,.tii-db-pulse-dot{position:relative;width:7px;height:7px;border-radius:50%;display:inline-block;flex:0 0 7px;background:#fff} .tii-db-status-dot::after,.tii-db-pulse-dot::after{content:"";position:absolute;inset:-1px;border:1px solid currentColor;border-radius:50%;opacity:0;transform:scale(1);animation:tiiRippleX 2.2s ease-out infinite} .tii-db-pulse-text--mobile{display:none} .tii-db-title{margin:0;max-width:23ch;padding-bottom:.12em;display:block;contain:paint;font-family:Inter,-apple-system,BlinkMacSystemFont,"Segoe UI",sans-serif;font-size:clamp(3rem,5.35vw,5rem);font-weight:800;line-height:1.03;letter-spacing:-.055em;text-wrap:balance;color:#fff;background:linear-gradient(135deg,#fff 0%,#fff 9%,var(--tii-gold) 18%,var(--tii-blue) 31%,#fff 43%,#fff 50%,#fff 59%,var(--tii-gold) 68%,var(--tii-blue) 81%,#fff 93%,#fff 100%);background-size:200% 200%;background-position:100% 100%;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-clip:text;background-clip:text;-webkit-text-fill-color:transparent;animation:tiiTitleFlow 9.5s steps(128,end) infinite;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased} .tii-db-outline-intro{margin:2px 0 0;max-width:72ch;color:#fff;font:650 1rem/1.55 Inter,-apple-system,BlinkMacSystemFont,"Segoe UI",sans-serif}.tii-db-outline-columns{width:min(100%,78ch);display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(2,minmax(0,1fr));align-items:start;column-gap:clamp(24px,3vw,46px)}.tii-db-outline{width:min(100%,78ch);margin:0;padding:0 0 0 1.25rem;display:grid;gap:.44rem;color:#fff}.tii-db-outline-columns .tii-db-outline{width:100%}.tii-db-outline li{margin:0;padding-left:.18rem;color:#fff;font:500 .95rem/1.42 Inter,-apple-system,BlinkMacSystemFont,"Segoe UI",sans-serif;break-inside:avoid}.tii-db-outline li::marker{color:#fff}.tii-db-meta{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:10px;margin-top:3px}.tii-db-meta-item{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;gap:8px;padding:8px 11px;border-radius:13px;color:rgba(255,255,255,.84);font-size:.8rem;line-height:1.2}.tii-db-meta-item svg{width:14px;height:14px;stroke:currentColor;flex:0 0 14px} .tii-db-stage{position:absolute;z-index:2;inset:0 0 0 auto;width:34%;overflow:hidden;touch-action:none;padding-left:14px;contain:layout paint style} @supports(overflow:clip){.tii-db-stage{overflow:clip}} @media(min-width:781px){.tii-db-stage{--g:max(32px,calc((100vw - 1320px)/2));right:calc(-1*var(--g));width:calc(34% + var(--g))}} .tii-db-stage .tii-db-status{position:absolute;top:64px;right:14px;z-index:8;max-width:calc(100% - 28px);justify-content:center;text-align:center;overflow:hidden;text-overflow:ellipsis}.tii-db-status--mobile{display:none} .tii-db-campus-field{position:absolute;z-index:2;inset:90px 10px 64px;contain:layout paint style} .tii-db-campus-blip{position:absolute;z-index:3;min-width:90px;width:min(136px,24vw);padding:7px 9px 7px 7px;border-radius:15px;border:1px solid rgba(49,69,86,.10);background:rgba(255,255,255,.68);box-shadow:0 14px 26px rgba(49,69,86,.08);display:flex;align-items:center;gap:8px;pointer-events:none;opacity:0;transform:translate3d(0,10px,0) scale(.96);contain:layout paint style;animation:tiiCardScan 32s ease-in-out calc(5.9s + var(--d,0s)) infinite both} .tii-db-campus-blip svg{width:28px;height:28px;flex:0 0 28px}.tii-db-campus-blip>div{min-width:0;line-height:1}.tii-db-campus-label{display:block;color:#314556;font-size:.62rem;line-height:1;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.08em;text-transform:uppercase}.tii-db-campus-sub{display:block;margin-top:2px;color:#627888;font-size:.52rem;line-height:calc(1em + 2px);letter-spacing:.12em;text-transform:uppercase} .tii-db-campus-1{top:3%;left:3%;--d:0s}.tii-db-campus-2{top:5%;left:38%;--d:2s}.tii-db-campus-3{top:4%;right:4%;--d:4s}.tii-db-campus-4{top:21%;left:13%;--d:6s}.tii-db-campus-5{top:19%;right:18%;--d:8s}.tii-db-campus-6{top:35%;left:43%;--d:10s}.tii-db-campus-7{top:40%;left:3%;--d:12s}.tii-db-campus-8{top:42%;right:3%;--d:14s}.tii-db-campus-9{top:58%;left:16%;--d:16s}.tii-db-campus-10{top:57%;right:27%;--d:18s}.tii-db-campus-11{top:70%;left:43%;--d:20s}.tii-db-campus-12{top:73%;right:7%;--d:22s}.tii-db-campus-13{bottom:2%;left:2%;--d:24s}.tii-db-campus-14{bottom:1%;left:27%;--d:26s}.tii-db-campus-15{bottom:3%;right:25%;--d:28s}.tii-db-campus-16{bottom:1%;right:2%;--d:30s} .tii-db-scan-ring{position:absolute;width:210px;height:210px;border-radius:50%;border:1px dashed rgba(255,255,255,.20);left:48%;top:16%;opacity:.46;animation:tiiFloatRing 10s ease-in-out infinite}.tii-db-scan-ring::before,.tii-db-scan-ring::after{content:"";position:absolute;border-radius:50%;border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.12)}.tii-db-scan-ring::before{inset:18px}.tii-db-scan-ring::after{inset:38px} .tii-db-magnifier-wrap{position:absolute;inset:0 auto 0 50%;z-index:10000;width:min(1320px,calc(100% - 64px));transform:translateX(-50%);pointer-events:none;overflow:visible;contain:layout style}.tii-db-magnifier-manual-shift,.tii-db-magnifier-path,.tii-db-magnifier-patrol,.tii-db-magnifier-rig{position:absolute;inset:0}.tii-db-magnifier-manual-shift{z-index:10000;transform:translate3d(0,0,0)}.tii-returning .tii-db-magnifier-manual-shift{transition:transform 650ms cubic-bezier(.22,1,.36,1)} .tii-db-magnifier-path{left:56%;top:calc(5.5% + 50px);width:112px;height:112px;animation:tiiEnter 5.9s cubic-bezier(.22,.72,.24,1) 1 both}.tii-db-magnifier-patrol{animation:tiiPatrol 32s ease-in-out 5.9s infinite}.tii-db-magnifier-rig{z-index:10001;animation:tiiTilt 6.4s ease-in-out infinite;transform-origin:64% 34%}.tii-db-magnifier-shadow{position:absolute;left:28px;top:89px;width:64px;height:17px;border-radius:50%;background:radial-gradient(ellipse,rgba(49,69,86,.18),rgba(49,69,86,0) 72%);animation:tiiShadow 6.4s ease-in-out infinite}.tii-db-magnifier-image{position:absolute;z-index:10003;left:0;top:0;width:104px;height:104px;object-fit:contain;user-select:none;-webkit-user-drag:none;filter:drop-shadow(0 7px 12px rgba(49,69,86,.13));transform:translateZ(0)} .tii-db-magnifier-zoom{position:absolute;z-index:10005;left:42px;top:8px;width:51px;height:51px;border-radius:50%;overflow:hidden;pointer-events:none;border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.46);box-shadow:inset 0 0 0 1px rgba(255,255,255,.32),inset 0 0 13px rgba(186,220,241,.16),0 2px 9px rgba(1,9,20,.15);background:radial-gradient(circle at 31% 24%,rgba(255,255,255,.42) 0 7%,rgba(255,255,255,.13) 18%,transparent 42%),linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(224,240,250,.31),rgba(114,154,184,.12) 54%,rgba(255,255,255,.22))}.tii-db-magnifier-zoom::after{content:"";position:absolute;inset:8% 12% 52% 14%;border-radius:50%;background:linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(255,255,255,.34),rgba(255,255,255,0));opacity:.8;transform:rotate(-16deg)} .tii-db-magnifier-beam{position:absolute;z-index:10002;left:65px;top:2px;width:190px;height:72px;transform-origin:0 50%;clip-path:polygon(0 44%,100% 0,100% 100%,0 56%);background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(255,255,255,.58),rgba(191,224,241,.30) 42%,rgba(102,127,146,0));opacity:.48;mix-blend-mode:screen;animation:tiiBeam 4.2s ease-in-out infinite}.tii-db-magnifier-trigger{position:absolute;left:47px;top:1px;width:42px;height:42px;border-radius:50%;border:1px solid rgba(102,127,146,.28)}.tii-db-magnifier-trigger::after{content:"";position:absolute;inset:-1px;border:1px solid rgba(102,127,146,.28);border-radius:50%;opacity:.45;transform:scale(.84);animation:tiiTrigger 4.2s ease-out infinite} .tii-magnifier-manual :is(.tii-db-magnifier-path,.tii-db-magnifier-patrol,.tii-db-magnifier-rig,.tii-db-magnifier-shadow,.tii-db-magnifier-beam,.tii-db-magnifier-trigger,.tii-db-campus-blip){animation-play-state:paused}.tii-magnifier-manual .tii-db-campus-blip{animation:none} .tii-hero-offscreen{content-visibility:auto;contain-intrinsic-size:auto 650px}.tii-hero-offscreen :is(.tii-db-title,.tii-db-campus-blip,.tii-db-scan-ring,.tii-db-magnifier-path,.tii-db-magnifier-patrol,.tii-db-magnifier-rig,.tii-db-magnifier-shadow,.tii-db-magnifier-beam){animation-play-state:paused!important}.tii-hero-offscreen .tii-db-status-dot::after,.tii-hero-offscreen .tii-db-pulse-dot::after,.tii-hero-offscreen .tii-db-magnifier-trigger::after{animation-play-state:paused!important} @keyframes tiiTitleFlow{from{background-position:100% 100%}to{background-position:0 0}}@keyframes tiiRippleX{0%{opacity:.45;transform:scale(.9)}75%,100%{opacity:0;transform:scale(2.4)}}@keyframes tiiCardScan{0%,100%{opacity:0;transform:translate3d(0,10px,0) scale(.96)}3%,10%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(0,0,0) scale(1)}15%{opacity:0;transform:translate3d(0,-7px,0) scale(1.01)}}@keyframes tiiFloatRing{0%,100%{transform:translate3d(0,0,0) scale(1)}50%{transform:translate3d(10px,6px,0) scale(1.04)}} @keyframes tiiPatrol{0%,100%{transform:translate3d(0,0,0)}12%{transform:translate3d(clamp(72px,12vw,180px),2px,0)}25%{transform:translate3d(clamp(145px,23vw,285px),clamp(18px,4vh,42px),0)}38%{transform:translate3d(clamp(95px,16vw,210px),clamp(78px,15vh,155px),0)}51%{transform:translate3d(clamp(8px,2vw,34px),clamp(120px,23vh,225px),0)}64%{transform:translate3d(clamp(125px,20vw,255px),clamp(145px,27vh,255px),0)}77%{transform:translate3d(clamp(185px,29vw,340px),clamp(76px,14vh,145px),0)}89%{transform:translate3d(clamp(58px,9vw,128px),clamp(42px,8vh,88px),0)}} @keyframes tiiPatrolM{0%,100%{transform:translate3d(0,0,0)}20%{transform:translate3d(clamp(42px,18vw,82px),2px,0)}40%{transform:translate3d(clamp(16px,7vw,38px),34px,0)}60%{transform:translate3d(clamp(48px,20vw,92px),72px,0)}80%{transform:translate3d(4px,56px,0)}}@keyframes tiiTilt{0%,100%{transform:rotate(-7deg) scale(1)}50%{transform:rotate(4deg) scale(1.02)}}@keyframes tiiShadow{0%,100%{transform:scale(1);opacity:.16}50%{transform:scale(.92);opacity:.10}}@keyframes tiiBeam{0%,100%{opacity:.24;transform:rotate(-12deg) scaleX(.91)}50%{opacity:.56;transform:rotate(-9deg) scaleX(1.05)}}@keyframes tiiTrigger{0%{opacity:.46;transform:scale(.84)}75%,100%{opacity:0;transform:scale(1.55)}} @keyframes tiiEnter{0%{opacity:0;transform:translate3d(clamp(-160px,-11vw,-72px),-230px,0)}14%{opacity:.68;transform:translate3d(clamp(-150px,-10vw,-66px),-174px,0)}36%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(clamp(-112px,-7vw,-48px),-108px,0)}64%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(clamp(-58px,-3.5vw,-24px),-48px,0)}84%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(-8px,-8px,0)}100%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(0,0,0)}}@keyframes tiiEnterM{0%{opacity:0;transform:translate3d(clamp(-176px,-51vw,-128px),-88px,0)}20%{opacity:.72;transform:translate3d(clamp(-146px,-40vw,-104px),-62px,0)}52%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(clamp(-82px,-23vw,-58px),-30px,0)}82%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(-10px,-5px,0)}100%{opacity:1;transform:translate3d(0,0,0)}} @media(max-width:1080px){.tii-db-copy{width:62%}.tii-db-stage{width:40%}.tii-db-title{max-width:16ch;font-size:clamp(2.8rem,5.7vw,4.45rem)}} @media(max-width:780px){.tii-detective-blog-hero{padding-top:38px}.tii-db-body{width:min(100%,calc(100% - 20px));display:flex;flex-direction:column}.tii-db-stage{order:1;position:relative;inset:auto;width:100%;height:177px;min-height:177px;padding:0}.tii-db-copy{order:2;width:100%;padding:0 18px 24px;gap:13px}.tii-db-kicker-row{display:none}.tii-db-title{max-width:none;font-size:clamp(2.55rem,11vw,4rem);line-height:1.04;padding-bottom:.14em}.tii-db-outline-intro{font-size:.96rem;line-height:1.5}.tii-db-outline-columns{display:block;width:100%}.tii-db-outline-columns .tii-db-outline+.tii-db-outline{margin-top:.4rem}.tii-db-outline{width:100%;padding-left:1.16rem;gap:.4rem}.tii-db-outline li{font-size:.91rem;line-height:1.4}.tii-db-campus-field{inset:48px 6px 18px;transform:translate3d(0,-15px,0)}.tii-db-stage .tii-db-status--desktop{display:none}.tii-db-stage .tii-db-status--mobile{display:flex;top:15px;left:50%;right:auto;width:max-content;max-width:calc(100% - 24px);padding:0;border:0;background:transparent;transform:translateX(-50%)}.tii-db-stage .tii-db-status--mobile .tii-db-status-dot{color:#d8b85a;background:#d8b85a}.tii-db-campus-blip{min-width:84px;width:min(120px,35vw);padding:7px;border-radius:13px;max-height:72px;animation-duration:34s}.tii-db-campus-blip svg{width:24px;height:24px;flex-basis:24px}.tii-db-campus-label{font-size:.56rem}.tii-db-campus-sub{font-size:.48rem}.tii-db-campus-1{top:2%;left:2%}.tii-db-campus-2{top:4%;left:34%}.tii-db-campus-3{top:3%;right:2%}.tii-db-campus-4{top:19%;left:5%}.tii-db-campus-5{top:18%;right:9%}.tii-db-campus-6{top:34%;left:36%}.tii-db-campus-7{top:39%;left:1%}.tii-db-campus-8{top:40%;right:1%}.tii-db-campus-9{top:57%;left:6%}.tii-db-campus-10{top:56%;right:16%}.tii-db-campus-11{top:69%;left:34%}.tii-db-campus-12{top:71%;right:2%}.tii-db-campus-13{bottom:1%;left:1%}.tii-db-campus-14{bottom:0;left:22%}.tii-db-campus-15{bottom:2%;right:22%}.tii-db-campus-16{bottom:0;right:1%}.tii-db-campus-field>.tii-db-campus-blip:nth-child(even){display:none}.tii-db-magnifier-wrap{inset:38px 10px auto;width:auto;height:177px;transform:none}.tii-db-magnifier-path{left:54%;top:calc(9% + 35px);width:88px;height:88px;animation-name:tiiEnterM;animation-duration:4.35s}.tii-db-magnifier-patrol{animation-name:tiiPatrolM;animation-duration:34s;animation-delay:4.35s}.tii-db-magnifier-image{width:82px;height:82px}.tii-db-magnifier-zoom{left:33px;top:7px;width:40px;height:40px}.tii-db-magnifier-shadow{left:23px;top:70px;width:50px;height:13px}.tii-db-magnifier-beam{left:51px;top:1px;width:126px;height:56px}.tii-db-magnifier-trigger{left:36px;top:0;width:34px;height:34px}} @media(min-width:781px) and (hover:hover) and (pointer:fine){.tii-detective-blog-hero.tii-magnifier-takeover,.tii-detective-blog-hero.tii-magnifier-takeover *{cursor:none!important}} @media(prefers-reduced-motion:reduce){.tii-db-title,.tii-db-status-dot::after,.tii-db-pulse-dot::after,.tii-db-campus-blip,.tii-db-scan-ring,.tii-db-magnifier-path,.tii-db-magnifier-patrol,.tii-db-magnifier-rig,.tii-db-magnifier-shadow,.tii-db-magnifier-beam,.tii-db-magnifier-trigger::after{animation:none!important}.tii-db-title{background-position:50% 50%}.tii-db-campus-blip{opacity:1;transform:none}} -webkit-backdrop-filter: blur(20px) saturate(170%) contrast(.72) brightness(1.12); backdrop-filter: blur(20px) saturate(170%) contrast(.72) brightness(1.12); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface::before { content: ""; position: absolute; inset: 0; border-radius: inherit; pointer-events: none; box-shadow: inset 1px 0 0 rgba(255,255,255,.35), inset -1px 0 0 rgba(255,255,255,.18); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link { position: absolute; bottom: calc(var(--iad-bottom) + env(safe-area-inset-bottom, 0px)); display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; gap: 9px; min-width: 112px; min-height: 48px; height: 48px; padding: 10px 18px; border-radius: 999px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: 600; transition: transform .22s ease, box-shadow .22s ease, border-color .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-prev { left: max(var(--iad-edge), env(safe-area-inset-left, 0px)); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-next { right: max(var(--iad-edge), env(safe-area-inset-right, 0px)); } #ivy-article-dock svg { width: 19px; height: 19px; flex: 0 0 auto; display: block; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-preview { position: absolute; bottom: calc(100% + 11px); width: 260px; padding: 14px 16px; border-radius: 20px; /* More frosting for a multi-line headline than for the compact controls. */ --iad-glass: rgba(245,249,255,.80); opacity: 0; visibility: hidden; pointer-events: none; transform: translateY(5px); transition: opacity .18s ease, transform .18s ease, visibility .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-prev .iad-preview { left: 0; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-next .iad-preview { right: 0; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:hover .iad-preview, #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:focus-visible .iad-preview { opacity: 1; visibility: visible; transform: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-eyebrow { display: block; color: var(--iad-gold); font-size: 10px; letter-spacing: .06em; margin-bottom: 5px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-title { display: -webkit-box; -webkit-line-clamp: 3; -webkit-box-orient: vertical; overflow: hidden; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 550; line-height: 1.4; overflow-wrap: anywhere; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-center { position: absolute; bottom: calc(var(--iad-bottom) + env(safe-area-inset-bottom, 0px) + var(--iad-keyboard)); left: 50%; width: min(438px, calc(100% - 316px)); transform: translateX(-50%); pointer-events: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-form { position: relative; height: 48px; margin: 0; padding: 0; border: 0; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { position: relative; display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 0; min-width: 0; height: 48px; border: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.60); border-radius: 999px; background: rgba(255,255,255,.34); box-shadow: inset 0 1px 3px rgba(37,57,76,.05), 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,.20); transition: background-color .18s ease, border-color .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field:focus-within { background: rgba(255,255,255,.56); border-color: rgba(122,95,55,.55); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { display: block; flex: 1 1 0%; min-width: 0; width: 0; height: 46px; padding: 8px 13px; margin: 0; border: 0; border-radius: 999px; background: transparent; color: var(--iad-ink) !important; caret-color: var(--iad-ink); font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; box-shadow: none; outline-offset: 2px; appearance: none; -webkit-appearance: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input::placeholder { color: var(--iad-muted); opacity: 1; font-size: 12px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { display: grid; place-items: center; flex: 0 0 40px; width: 40px; height: 40px; padding: 0; margin: 0 2px 0 0; border: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.61); border-radius: 999px; background: rgba(255,255,255,.40); box-shadow: 0 2px 5px rgba(23,42,62,.07), inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,.72); transition: background-color .18s ease, transform .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit svg { width: 17px; height: 17px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:hover { background: rgba(255,255,255,.75); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:disabled { cursor: progress; opacity: .65; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-status { color: var(--iad-ink); font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.4; } #ivy-article-dock a:focus-visible, #ivy-article-dock button:focus-visible, #ivy-article-dock input:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid var(--iad-gold) !important; outline-offset: 3px; } #ivy-article-dock[data-near-end="true"] .iad-next { border-color: rgba(135,105,60,.66); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-sr { position: absolute; width: 1px; height: 1px; padding: 0; margin: -1px; overflow: hidden; clip: rect(0,0,0,0); white-space: nowrap; border: 0; } @media (hover: hover) and (pointer: fine) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:hover { transform: translateY(-3px); border-color: rgba(255,255,255,.98); box-shadow: 0 21px 45px -12px rgba(19,36,53,.34), 0 7px 16px -8px rgba(19,36,53,.25), inset 0 1px 0 #fff, inset 0 -1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,.50); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:active { transform: translateY(-1px); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:active { transform: scale(.96); } } @media (max-width: 720px) { #ivy-article-dock { --iad-edge: 8px; --iad-bottom: 12px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link { min-width: 44px; width: 44px; min-height: 44px; height: 44px; padding: 10px; border-radius: 50%; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-direction { display: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-center { width: calc(100% - 120px); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-form { height: 44px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { height: 44px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { height: 42px; padding: 9px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input::placeholder { font-size: 11px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { flex-basis: 36px; width: 36px; height: 38px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-preview { width: min(246px, calc(100vw - 30px)); } #ivy-article-dock[data-search-focus="true"] .iad-center { width: calc(100% - max(18px, env(safe-area-inset-left, 0px)) - max(18px, env(safe-area-inset-right, 0px))); } #ivy-article-dock[data-search-focus="true"] .iad-link { display: none; } } /* Keep comfortable field sizes on touch-first devices, including larger tablets. */ @media (pointer: coarse) and (min-width: 721px) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-form, #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { height: 48px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { height: 46px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { height: 40px; flex-basis: 40px; width: 40px; } } @media (hover: none) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-preview { display: none; } } @media (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce) { #ivy-article-dock * { transition: none !important; animation: none !important; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:hover, #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:active { transform: none; } } @supports not ((backdrop-filter: blur(1px)) or (-webkit-backdrop-filter: blur(1px))) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface { background: #eef3f8; } } @media (prefers-reduced-transparency: reduce), (prefers-contrast: more) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface { background: #eef3f8; border-color: #8193a5; -webkit-backdrop-filter: none; backdrop-filter: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { background: #fff; border-color: #8193a5; } } @media (forced-colors: active) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface, #ivy-article-dock .iad-field, #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { background: Canvas; border: 1px solid ButtonText; box-shadow: none; -webkit-backdrop-filter: none; backdrop-filter: none; } #ivy-article-dock a, #ivy-article-dock button, #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { color: CanvasText !important; text-shadow: none; } } @media print { #ivy-article-dock { display: none !important; } } /* Shown only on the blog index when the search-handoff fallback is needed. */ #ivy-blog-search-handoff { margin: 20px auto; padding: 18px 22px; max-width: 820px; border: 1px solid #b8c4d0; border-radius: 16px; color: #172b40; background: #f3f6f9; font: 16px/1.5 system-ui,sans-serif; } #ivy-blog-search-handoff p { margin: 0; } #ivy-blog-search-handoff a { color: #173e65; text-decoration: underline; } linear-gradient(150deg, rgba(255,255,255,.24), rgba(255,255,255,.05) 48%, rgba(222,235,251,.12)), var(--iad-glass); box-shadow: var(--iad-shadow); pointer-events: auto; -webkit-backdrop-filter: blur(20px) saturate(170%) contrast(.72) brightness(1.12); backdrop-filter: blur(20px) saturate(170%) contrast(.72) brightness(1.12); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface::before { content: ""; position: absolute; inset: 0; border-radius: inherit; pointer-events: none; box-shadow: inset 1px 0 0 rgba(255,255,255,.35), inset -1px 0 0 rgba(255,255,255,.18); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link { position: absolute; bottom: calc(var(--iad-bottom) + env(safe-area-inset-bottom, 0px)); display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; gap: 9px; min-width: 112px; min-height: 48px; height: 48px; padding: 10px 18px; border-radius: 999px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: 600; transition: transform .22s ease, box-shadow .22s ease, border-color .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-prev { left: max(var(--iad-edge), env(safe-area-inset-left, 0px)); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-next { right: max(var(--iad-edge), env(safe-area-inset-right, 0px)); } #ivy-article-dock svg { width: 19px; height: 19px; flex: 0 0 auto; display: block; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-preview { position: absolute; bottom: calc(100% + 11px); width: 260px; padding: 14px 16px; border-radius: 20px; /* More frosting for a multi-line headline than for the compact controls. */ --iad-glass: rgba(245,249,255,.80); opacity: 0; visibility: hidden; pointer-events: none; transform: translateY(5px); transition: opacity .18s ease, transform .18s ease, visibility .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-prev .iad-preview { left: 0; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-next .iad-preview { right: 0; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:hover .iad-preview, #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:focus-visible .iad-preview { opacity: 1; visibility: visible; transform: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-eyebrow { display: block; color: var(--iad-gold); font-size: 10px; letter-spacing: .06em; margin-bottom: 5px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-title { display: -webkit-box; -webkit-line-clamp: 3; -webkit-box-orient: vertical; overflow: hidden; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 550; line-height: 1.4; overflow-wrap: anywhere; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-center { position: absolute; bottom: calc(var(--iad-bottom) + env(safe-area-inset-bottom, 0px) + var(--iad-keyboard)); left: 50%; width: min(438px, calc(100% - 316px)); transform: translateX(-50%); pointer-events: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-form { position: relative; height: 48px; margin: 0; padding: 0; border: 0; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { position: relative; display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 0; min-width: 0; height: 48px; border: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.60); border-radius: 999px; background: rgba(255,255,255,.34); box-shadow: inset 0 1px 3px rgba(37,57,76,.05), 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,.20); transition: background-color .18s ease, border-color .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field:focus-within { background: rgba(255,255,255,.56); border-color: rgba(122,95,55,.55); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { display: block; flex: 1 1 0%; min-width: 0; width: 0; height: 46px; padding: 8px 13px; margin: 0; border: 0; border-radius: 999px; background: transparent; color: var(--iad-ink) !important; caret-color: var(--iad-ink); font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; box-shadow: none; outline-offset: 2px; appearance: none; -webkit-appearance: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input::placeholder { color: var(--iad-muted); opacity: 1; font-size: 12px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { display: grid; place-items: center; flex: 0 0 40px; width: 40px; height: 40px; padding: 0; margin: 0 2px 0 0; border: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.61); border-radius: 999px; background: rgba(255,255,255,.40); box-shadow: 0 2px 5px rgba(23,42,62,.07), inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,.72); transition: background-color .18s ease, transform .18s ease; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit svg { width: 17px; height: 17px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:hover { background: rgba(255,255,255,.75); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:disabled { cursor: progress; opacity: .65; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-status { color: var(--iad-ink); font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.4; } #ivy-article-dock a:focus-visible, #ivy-article-dock button:focus-visible, #ivy-article-dock input:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid var(--iad-gold) !important; outline-offset: 3px; } #ivy-article-dock[data-near-end="true"] .iad-next { border-color: rgba(135,105,60,.66); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-sr { position: absolute; width: 1px; height: 1px; padding: 0; margin: -1px; overflow: hidden; clip: rect(0,0,0,0); white-space: nowrap; border: 0; } @media (hover: hover) and (pointer: fine) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:hover { transform: translateY(-3px); border-color: rgba(255,255,255,.98); box-shadow: 0 21px 45px -12px rgba(19,36,53,.34), 0 7px 16px -8px rgba(19,36,53,.25), inset 0 1px 0 #fff, inset 0 -1px 0 rgba(255,255,255,.50); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:active { transform: translateY(-1px); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:active { transform: scale(.96); } } @media (max-width: 720px) { #ivy-article-dock { --iad-edge: 8px; --iad-bottom: 12px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link { min-width: 44px; width: 44px; min-height: 44px; height: 44px; padding: 10px; border-radius: 50%; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-direction { display: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-center { width: calc(100% - 120px); } #ivy-article-dock .iad-form { height: 44px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { height: 44px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { height: 42px; padding: 9px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input::placeholder { font-size: 11px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { flex-basis: 36px; width: 36px; height: 38px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-preview { width: min(246px, calc(100vw - 30px)); } #ivy-article-dock[data-search-focus="true"] .iad-center { width: calc(100% - max(18px, env(safe-area-inset-left, 0px)) - max(18px, env(safe-area-inset-right, 0px))); } #ivy-article-dock[data-search-focus="true"] .iad-link { display: none; } } /* Keep comfortable field sizes on touch-first devices, including larger tablets. */ @media (pointer: coarse) and (min-width: 721px) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-form, #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { height: 48px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { height: 46px; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { height: 40px; flex-basis: 40px; width: 40px; } } @media (hover: none) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-preview { display: none; } } @media (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce) { #ivy-article-dock * { transition: none !important; animation: none !important; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-link:hover, #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit:active { transform: none; } } @supports not ((backdrop-filter: blur(1px)) or (-webkit-backdrop-filter: blur(1px))) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface { background: #eef3f8; } } @media (prefers-reduced-transparency: reduce), (prefers-contrast: more) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface { background: #eef3f8; border-color: #8193a5; -webkit-backdrop-filter: none; backdrop-filter: none; } #ivy-article-dock .iad-field { background: #fff; border-color: #8193a5; } } @media (forced-colors: active) { #ivy-article-dock .iad-surface, #ivy-article-dock .iad-field, #ivy-article-dock .iad-submit { background: Canvas; border: 1px solid ButtonText; box-shadow: none; -webkit-backdrop-filter: none; backdrop-filter: none; } #ivy-article-dock a, #ivy-article-dock button, #ivy-article-dock .iad-input { color: CanvasText !important; text-shadow: none; } } @media print { #ivy-article-dock { display: none !important; } } /* Shown only on the blog index when the search-handoff fallback is needed. */ #ivy-blog-search-handoff { margin: 20px auto; padding: 18px 22px; max-width: 820px; border: 1px solid #b8c4d0; border-radius: 16px; color: #172b40; background: #f3f6f9; font: 16px/1.5 system-ui,sans-serif; } #ivy-blog-search-handoff p { margin: 0; } #ivy-blog-search-handoff a { color: #173e65; text-decoration: underline; } sconnect(); bodyObserver?.disconnect(); delete window[GLOBAL]; } window[GLOBAL] = { version: '3.0.0', refresh, destroy }; for (const name of ['mercury:load', 'sqs:page-view', 'sqs:after-page-load']) document.addEventListener(name, refresh, { signal: appAbort.signal }); for (const name of ['popstate', 'pageshow', 'load']) window.addEventListener(name, refresh, { signal: appAbort.signal }); if (document.readyState === 'loading') document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', start, { once: true, signal: appAbort.signal }); else start(); })();
Previous
Previous

What is the key to the Ivy League? (Hint: It’s not grades or test scores.)

Next
Next

What should you write about in your Common App main essay?