With recent advances in technology, the temptation is for students to rely too heavily on AI to write their college admissions essays. A student may think, for instance, “What could be the harm in letting ChatGPT get me started on a rough draft?” Here are a few reasons why parents should feel apprehensive about such thoughts:
1. Lack of Personalization:
Bard and ChatGPT, as AI tools, offer generalized feedback and suggestions, which will not take into account a student’s unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations. Private tutors, on the other hand, provide personalized guidance tailored to the individual student. They work closely with the student to understand their background, interests, and goals, helping them craft an essay that reflects their unique voice and story.
2. Risk of Plagiarism or Inauthenticity:
Relying too much on AI programs will result in essays that lack authenticity and originality. They may also be quickly flagged by admissions committees as having been written by AI. Afterall, AI tools can inadvertently generate content that resembles existing essays or may not capture the student’s personal perspective. Private tutors emphasize the importance of originality and guide students in expressing their thoughts in a genuine manner. They help students avoid the risk of unintentional plagiarism and ensure that the essays convey a sense of the student’s best and most genuine self.
3. Limited Development of Writing Skills:
While AI tools can offer suggestions and revisions, they do not actively help students develop their writing skills. Private tutors provide comprehensive guidance to improve students’ writing abilities, focusing on grammar, structure, coherence, and style. Tutors help students strengthen their overall writing skills, enabling them to express themselves more effectively and confidently beyond the college admissions process.
4. Emotional Support and Mentorship:
The college admissions process can be stressful and overwhelming for students. Private tutors offer more than just academic guidance; they provide emotional support, motivation, and mentorship throughout the admissions journey. Tutors create a nurturing environment where students can discuss their concerns, receive encouragement, and stay motivated throughout the process.
5. Comprehensive Application Assistance:
College admissions essays are just one part of a comprehensive application. Private tutors offer holistic guidance, helping students navigate other components such as extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and interview preparation. Tutors provide insights into how these components should align with the student’s overall narrative and application strategy, ensuring a cohesive and compelling application package.