Read through the instructions for writing the application essay. Understand these instructions to know how the reader expects you to present your essay. Take into account the essay length, formatting and topic requirements if any.
Reflect on your life before starting the essay. Your essay should tell your audience something about you that they cannot find out from your grades and bio-data. Reveal your personality through a topic important to you -- a personal experience, a mentor or even a book or activity that changed your life. Even if the college requires you to write to a standardized application essay topic, make it creative and original by connecting it with experiences in your life. For example, if the topic is to write about an individual you admire, avoid the obvious choices (Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Gandhi, etc.) and instead talk about an individual in your life who has influenced you and helped you in a way you think important.
Think about why you want to apply to this particular program. Did any personal life incidents inspire you to focus on this area of study? Why do you want to go to this particular college or university? For example, is it because the institution is in a location with which you are very familiar and has a personal connection to you, or because you feel there is a demand for your area of study there? Research the institution through its brochures or website, or by attending its events, so you give honest reasons for preferring the institution. Talk with a faculty member or student in the program in which you are interested for more information about the college and the program.
Start writing the essay using those ideas. Allow yourself to write freely but avoid general statements such as "Doctors are in the blessed job of saving lives" or "My school changed me," which could apply to anyone. Talk about events, anecdotes and emotions that are yours. Explain to your reader that while you are aware of the program's benefits, you are also well aware of the challenges you face to succeed in the program. Talk about your future goals, but avoid being too precise about them since goals can change; be realistic and indicate that you would be open to that change. Be clear and concise in your writing and do not repeat information you have already given in your application.
Revisit the draft more than once to gain fresh perspective and rewrite. Proofread the copy. Get feedback from friends or family whose judgment and writing abilities you respect.