Tackling the Common App essay to apply to colleges this fall? Register for a free, two-part workshop series to kickstart your writing process. In this interactive workshop led by the Young Adult Librarian at Mililani Public Library, participants will brainstorm essay topics, analyze sample essays, and learn strategies for structuring their essays. Participants will emerge with confidence and resources to begin crafting their essays. Due to a limited workshop size, registration is required and will be capped at 12 participants. Participants must commit to attending both sessions: Monday, September 23 and Monday, September 30 at 3:00-4:00 p.m. Register by completing the form at the bottom of the page or call the Mililani Public Library at 808-627-7470.

Who should attend: This workshop series is most applicable to high school seniors who are applying to colleges using the Common App with plans to matriculate in Fall 2025. The workshop is targeted towards those who are just starting their essays and have not yet settled on a topic. Those who are further along in the process may not find value in the workshop.

A summary of content covered in each session is provided below:  

Part 1 – Monday, September 23, 2024 at 3:00-4:00 pm 

Overview of the personal statement and brainstorming exercises 

• Role of the personal statement  
• General tips for approaching the essay 
• Brainstorming exercises 
• Excerpts from sample essays 

Part 2 – Monday, September 30, 2024 at 3:00-4:00 pm 

Writing techniques and structuring your essay 

• Examples of essay structures
• Writing exercises and analysis of successful essays 
• Tips for next steps in drafting, editing, and getting feedback 

Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. All programs are subject to change or cancellation without notice.