How to write a simple 200 words essay for my application?

[Tiana]

I need to get this off my chest because I feel like I'm losing my mind here. I'm applying for this really cool summer internship program, and part of the application is a personal statement. But here's the catch—they specifically asked for a 200 words essay. That's it. Just 200 words. Sounds easy, right? WRONG.

I've been staring at a blank Google Doc for three days now, and I have absolutely nothing. Like, how am I supposed to summarize my entire life story, my passion for marketing, and why I deserve this opportunity in only 200 words? It's not enough space to really explain anything, but it's also too many words to just write a quick paragraph. I'm stuck in this weird middle ground.

Every time I try to write something, it sounds either super robotic or way too casual. My roommate said I'm overthinking it, but I can't help it! I've already written three drafts and deleted them all. The first one was 400 words (way too long), the second one was 98 words (way too short), and the third one just said "I like marketing because it's cool" which is honestly embarrassing.

For those who've written short application essays before, how do you decide what to include and what to cut? Do you focus on one specific story, or do you try to give a broad overview? I'm desperate for any tips or tricks! Also, how strict are they with the word count? Like, if I go over by 10 words, will they automatically reject me? Please help a stressed-out junior out!

 

[Karen]

Short essays are actually harder than long ones because every word has to earn its place. Here's a structure that's worked for me:

• Hook (25 words): Start with a specific moment or observation. Not "I've always loved marketing" but "The first time I noticed a billboard that actually made me feel something, I knew..."
• Bridge (50 words): Connect that moment to your skills or experiences. Show, don't tell.
• Payoff (75 words): Tie it to the internship specifically. What draws you to THIS program? What will you contribute?
• Close (50 words): End with forward momentum—how this fits your bigger goals.

And yes, the word count matters. Going over by a few probably won't trigger automatic rejection, but it shows you can't follow instructions. Stay under or right at the limit.