How can I write my transfer admission essay without bashing my current college?

Question

I'm writing my transfer admission essay for Marietta College. The essay topic is "What motivated you to apply to transfer, and what do you hope to accomplish at Marietta College?". I have had an absolutely horrible experience here at Ohio University. I can't think of one single thing that has gone right here. I don't think the admissions committie would think it appropriate for me to say the actual things that have happened to me here that have motivated me to transfer. Do y'all have any suggestions of how I can address that question without completely trashing OU?

Answer 1

Concetrate on positives and actual events. "I was unable to get the help I needed to complete my assignment" "I have been told excellent opportunities exist here that highly interest me" "Your programs closely match my goals"

Get the idea?

Answer 2

I would suggest the contrasting approach. Obviously, you *aren't* satisfied with your current college, that's the whole point of a transfer, and the admissions office knows it. So, talk about what *will* satisfy you, and why OU didn't have it, and Marietta (hopefully) will. Flat out bashing is unnecessary, but you aren't going to be singing the praises of a college you're trying to get out of. Objectively state what was wrong with it, instead of getting emotionally involved.

Answer 3

Hey there,
Well you could write about the positive things you expect from Marietta College, instead of bashing your old college. You looking forward to this and that. How you have done research into the program you want to get into and believe that MC would mold you into the professional you later want to be in life ;). Cheers!

Answer 4

Do not use a negative theme about the present one you are attending that will put you in a bad light. Just talk about the good reputation of Marietta and highlight their positive points that will help you reach your educational goals.

Answer 5

Focus more on what Marietta College can give to you and what you feel the influences and advantages are for transferring there. If you really want to explain your distaste for Ohio Univ., explain what it is that Marietta has, which is unavailable at Ohio. For example: smaller class sizes, smaller student to teacher ratios, better courses, closer to home, etc.

Answer 6

Instead of using saying things like "It really sucked at OU" say "OU did not cater to my particular academic interests" or "I'm looking for a richer college experience and I've heard good things about your upstanding institution".