Writing and directing the movie of your life

Long ago, I aspired to be a movie star, before acknowledging that despite my best efforts, I had neither the looks nor talent. Still, I remained fascinated by cinematic arts, and over the years have taken several screenwriting courses. Among other topics, I learned about the conventional three-act movie structure with setup, rising action, and resolution. It’s a simple concept that dates back to Aristotle. I’ve taken much of that learning with me as I work with clients. How is an admissions essay like a movie?As with any movie, you need to capture your viewer's interest, and once you've got their attention, then you can tell your story. When you start on the admissions journey, it’s tempting to look for a template to follow, not just to save time but to feel confident that you’re on the right path. But, as with so many challenges in life, to get the results you want, you have to...