College Admission Essays: Think Like A Marketer
Thursday, July 23rd, 2009Looking to craft a college application essay and hitting a mental road block? Put on your marketing hat and think “Snap, Crackle and Pop”
Ask yourself the following question: Why do millions of consumers pay a premium price for Rice Krispies instead of a similar, but less-expensive, crisped rice cereal?
It’s simple! Savvy marketers at Kellogg’s have convinced consumers that Rice Krispies has “Snap, Crackle and Pop”. They created excitement around the brand and value in the eyes of the decision makers! Reluctant to take a chance with a bland and soggy cereal, buyers spoon over extra dollars for Rice Krispies. Why? Kellogg’s created the perception that it’s worth it! It must taste better! It must be a superior eating experience!
Apply that lesson to your college application essays. Essays are the key opportunity to convince the admissions committee that you are an exciting person and would be a genuine asset to the school.
What you probably don’t know is that there is a lot of discretion in college admissions.
That’s where your marketing hat comes in.
Like cereal shoppers at the supermarket, admissions people don’t make decisions based solely on numbers.
With that knowledge, it’s time to get creative and figure out how you can position yourself be an asset to the specific colleges on your list. Wow them with your interests, achievements and style to create your own version of “Snap Crackle and Pop”
