ChatGPT: How Will It Affect College Admissions?
April 18, 2023 | By Daniel Strom
When I first heard about ChatGPT, I imagined it was a glorified search engine. However, after exploring its capabilities, it became clear that ChatGPT is an amazing feat that is both revolutionary and disruptive to life as we know it. But how will it affect the college admissions realm?
Short answer: It won’t. As the world of artificial intelligence keeps evolving and making its way into various sectors, students will inevitably be tempted to take shortcuts. However, relying on an AI language model like ChatGPT to craft an essay will do more harm than good. Here's why:
1) ChatGPT doesn't allow a student's voice to shine through
I cannot stress enough the importance of using your authentic voice in application essays. Admissions readers can detect when something is AI-generated, and it will lead to a rejection. AI programs spit out essays that lack the personal touch that makes your writing truly stand out. I promise that admissions officers can spot robotic, impersonal writing from a mile away.
2) ChatGPT cannot tell a GENUINE story about YOU
AI models are formulaic by nature, and are great for research purposes. However, formulaic software programs are not trained to share a personal story that is uniquely yours. Reflective writing, which ChatGPT is not capable of, is key in the admissions process. Even if you feed ChatGPT some background information about your experiences, it cannot possibly write about you in a PERSONAL and PERSONABLE way. Out of the thousands of applications I've read, every successful one has made me feel like I have met the writer. To have this impact on the reader, your application essay should tell a story that explains how you have become, well, YOU!
3) ChatGPT lacks the awareness to adhere to your personal brand
In addition to sharing a personal story, college admissions essays are not just about being written well—they are an opportunity for you to highlight your personal brand. I like to call this the Application Brand, which is an internal strategy in which the applicant has a common thread connecting every aspect of their application, reflecting their passions and interests. If this concept does not make sense to you, I strongly suggest you read my blog, which explains the Application Brand concept in detail. ChatGPT cannot capture the nuances of your interests and passions, meaning an AI-generated essay won't accurately represent your Application Brand and may dramatically hurt your chances of acceptance.
I won't deny that ChatGPT's capabilities are impressive, but trust that using it for college applications is detrimental. To maximize your chances of admission, focus on showcasing your genuine voice, personal story, and unique brand in your essay. If AI ever becomes capable of this, the college application process will undoubtedly transform. Until then, take charge and show admissions officers who you really are!
About Daniel Strom
Daniel Strom co-founded Elite Scholar Advising, which provides tailored advice to college applicants worldwide. He is a proud graduate of Northwestern University and the Kellogg School of Management, where he also developed admissions experience through his role as an admissions representative. In addition, he also served on the Northwestern Alumni Admissions Interviewing Council. Daniel has helped hundreds of college applicants across the world realize their full potential by gaining admission to their dream schools.