One of the most common pieces of advice students hear when writing college essays is “Show, don’t tell.” But what does that actually mean—and how do you do it without sounding dramatic or writing a novel? At Kingfisher Prep, we define great college essays as those that invite the reader into a moment, rather than announce a conclusion. Telling says what happened. Showing lets us feel it.

Practical tips to help you uncover real, specific stories that make your college essay stand out. Unsure of how to begin? Learn how to brainstorm a personal statement that sounds authentic—not overused. Kingfisher Prep shares practical steps to find a unique college essay topic and write with detail, honesty, and purpose. You’re Not Alone (and You’re Not Behind)

Oh, man. Talk about an easy one to fix. Bless the students who come to me and say, “my essay is done! I’m ready to turn it in!” I read it...

Parents and students make this error all the time. But with a little understanding (and a brief psych lesson!) it can be avoided. — The...

When I was a sophomore at Yale, my acting professor Toni Dorfman looked at the class over the top of her Hogwarts-level spectacles and...