College Apps and FIRST

[Liz Smith]

The person who reads your personal statement will have either heard of FIRST or, they haven't (and Emory being a school in Atlanta... hopefully they have). Either way, I think they are looking for more about your experience with the program, rather than a complete background of FIRST. I would keep the background information to a minimum and make sure you focus on how it affected you.

[Cynette]

Originally Posted by Pika1579

Either way, I think they are looking for more about your experience with the program, rather than a complete background of FIRST. I would keep the background information to a minimum...

I agree that you do not need to give up much of your precious essay space for the background on FIRST, you can just give a reference to the USFIRST web site if it would make you feel more comfortable that you have provided a reference point.

Originally Posted by Pika1579

...and make sure you focus on how it affected you.

And on how you used FIRST to impact others. Colleges want students who are there to give as well as take, so it is good to show that whatever experiences FIRST gave to you, you used them to give to others.

Most importantly, let YOU shine through in the essay! Not all colleges are looking only for Stars, most are looking for students who can add something to the student body. "Diamonds in the Rough" are high in demand also!

[JaneYoung]

To add to what has been wisely suggested, you might give some thought to conveying that your experience with FIRST will continue to impact your life as you grow into adulthood. Possibly in areas of major, career choice(s), mentoring, teamwork, project management.
Good luck during this stressful but wonderful time of your life.
Jane