Application deadlines have come and gone for many, who are now left to do little more than wait, wonder, and hope. After the hectic and stressful period leading up to those deadlines, the calm after the storm can be jarring for some; they struggle to let go of the process and agonize over whether they missed anything or could have done something better. Others are all-too-happy to be done with application craziness and forget about everything until decision days draw near. Regardless of which camp you fall in, here are a few dos and don’ts to consider even after your essays have been submitted.
Do keep a couple of copies of your essays in a safe place. I say a couple for the same reason that you should have multiple copies of anything, especially when it’s in a digital format: if your computer crashes, you need to have backups. So save your essays on your hard drive, copy them to a CD or external drive, and stick some hard copies in your filing cabinet. You never know when you might need or want them again.
Don’t delete your drafts. Instead, save them in the same places you save your final copies. This suggestion might seem odd, but plagiarism is rampant in today’s academic world. Professors and admissions officers alike are becoming increasingly vigilant about confirming that the writing they receive is original. If you keep some of your working copies, you’ll be better equipped to prove that your essays are indeed your own work if that fact is ever questioned. It’s the same reason math professors ask you to show your work when solving an equation.
Do go back and look at your essays from time to time. This can be not only a fun way to reflect on a stressful time, but also a way to prepare yourself for future writing assignments of a similar nature.
Don’t constantly reread your essays looking for flaws and agonizing over whether they’re good enough. Your application has already been submitted so there’s nothing you can do to change your essays now. You gave them your best effort, which is all the admissions committee can ask for.
Do remember that your essays might come in handy if you’re applying for a grant, fellowship, or something similar. Beyond the realm of admissions, many other applications ask for some sort of essay or personal statement. The essays you’ve already written may work in those cases or at least provide you with some inspiration and direction.
Don’t forget to send thank-you notes to any relatives, professors, or friends who helped you during the application process. Whether by writing a letter of recommendation on your behalf or simply reading through your essay and giving you a second opinion, such individuals have supported you and enhanced your chances of admission. Take a few minutes to let them know how much you appreciate their efforts.
