Can AI get you into college? Admissions expert says think again
Writing a college essay has always been nerve-wracking, but now there's a new twist: artificial intelligence. With AI tools like ChatGPT at your fingertips, letting a computer write your way into college might seem tempting. But is that really a good idea?
Study.com sat down with Mark Clynes, a college admissions expert with 35 years of experience, to get the inside scoop on AI and college essays. Clynes has read thousands of students' essays and knows exactly what admissions teams are looking for—and it's definitely not a robot-generated response.
Why Essays Matter More Than You Think
College essays are way more than just another assignment. They're your golden ticket to showing admissions officers who you really are beyond grades and test scores. Clynes, with his vast experience in college admissions, sees essays as a unique window into a student's world.
"I've always read essays to get to know my students a little bit better," he shares. "They help me understand particular situations—like why grades might have dipped one semester or learn about a family challenge."
Think of your essay as a personal storytelling moment. It's not about writing the most dramatic narrative, but about authentically representing yourself. Clynes recalls essays that have brought him to tears and made him smile—proving that genuine stories always stand out.
As featured on
Study.com talks to an admissions expert to understand exactly how to use AI to enhance a col…
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.