Avoid Leaving that “Canned Cranberry” Aftertaste in the College Application Reader’s Mouth…

Nov 27

If your senior is hustling to pull together their applications, they might just be typing away with an “I’ve got it” expression, determined to ace the whole thing. But then they casually mention their latest strategy—AI-generated essays. 😩

At first, it seems like a reasonable, even smart, shortcut. After all, your teen’s juggling enough as it is… and hey, AI can work wonders with mind-numbing tasks like creating a packing list for your next college tour, so what’s the harm?

But here’s the thing: AI essays are a bit like… canned cranberry sauce—they look appealing, but the taste? Something’s just... off. And in a pile of essays bursting with flavor and personality, nothing stands out quite like the overly “processed” feel of an AI-generated personal statement.

Canned Essays:
The Cost of the “Quick Fix”

To students, using AI might seem like a grand slam—quick, efficient, and oh-so-convenient. But what they don't realize is that these "perfectly polished" AI-generated essays read more like formulas than reflections by a really interested student.

Admissions officers, who often read 30+ essays a day, can taste that out-of-the-can flavor almost instantly.

They’re professionals not just looking for flawless grammar or a neat structure; they're searching for students who will enhance the life and personality of their campus.

Think about it: what does submitting an AI-written essay say about a student? It suggests a lack of genuine interest and effort. Admissions readers won't waste time on an essay that doesn't offer real insight into who the student is.

Instead, it can be a swift "Next" as the application moves out of consideration.

AI may get the basics right, but it lacks the spice, the quirks, and that unique “secret family recipe” that makes an essay memorable.

It’s like serving Thanksgiving dinner straight from the freezer aisle—it fills the plate, sure… but remarkable?

No chance.

When Essays Sound About As Exciting As A Spreadsheet

AI might get the grammar right, but it misses the magic—the wit, the charm, and those quirky details that make a college essay shine. After reading hundreds of essays, I can spot an AI-produced piece in about five seconds flat, and so can college admissions reviewers.

Colleges want students who bring their true selves to the table, imperfections and all—not a collection of qualities some algorithm decided sounds smart.

Remember, AI pulls from the average of what’s out there.

That’s the exact opposite of what a senior should be showcasing right now! This is their moment to stand out, not blend in with a cookie-cutter essay.

When AI Is Helpful—And When It Falls Flat

Don’t get me wrong—AI isn’t all bad! It can be a great tool for brainstorming, organizing ideas, or getting through a bit of writer’s block.

Think of AI as a helpful sous-chef, but not the head chef. Letting it take over the whole essay? That’s a recipe for an essay that feels… well, canned.

Essays need more than just following a formula—they need individuality, creativity, and a touch of that “real you” vibe that only a human can bring. Whether it’s a college essay or even a love letter, it’ll always be more powerful if it sounds like them, not a polished “perfect” version they think admissions officers want to hear.

**The Real Recipe for an Essay That Colleges Remember**

So, when your student starts eyeing that “ChatGPT shortcut,” a little encouragement from you to stick with their own voice could be the difference between capturing attention and blending into the pile.

Remind them that even the most powerful writing has quirks, unexpected turns, and a feel that only they can create.

If they want to sound authentic, they’ll be better off skipping the clichés like “Since I was a kid, I’ve always known that…,” “I’m committed to…,” or “I’m excited to make an impact in the world…” There’s always a fresher, more authentic way to say what they mean.

And absolutely avoid those AI favorites like “tapestry,” “myriad,” and “epitome.” If your student doesn't typically use those words, this essay isn't the time to start—even though they might seem impressive or elevate the language. There's always a more real, relatable way to say what they mean.

Let’s make sure your essay writer brings their “secret recipe” to the essay-writing table and skips the canned version. After all, there are no shortcuts to a truly great story.

And if they’re completely stuck? I’m just a message away from helping your senior craft their unique, AI-free story that’s all them.