Your application is often the first impression a college has of you and your qualifications. When available, use the online version – it will be cleaner, faster, and more likely to catch obvious errors and omissions. If you must complete a paper copy, type when possible and always have someone else proof read it. Give a complete picture – account for gaps in time, changes in educational direction, or challenges you have overcome. You must submit all transcripts, even the “bad” grades, so use the essay or additional information section to explain changes and improvement in your educational process or personal and family commitments.
The Career/Transfer Resource Center holds workshops in October and November to help with CSU & UC online applications. To help with the essay portion, you can get writing assistance in the Study Skills section of the MPC Library & Technology Center.
The CTRC also has numerous books on writing essays including:
Nothing Can Stop Me: an Open Book on Transfer Application Essays by Marcie Wald
Peterson's Guide, Best College Admission Essays, 2005