Having just read Forbes’ article “Did You Use ChatGPT On Your School Applications? These Words May Tip Off Admissions” (paywalled), I think an “I told you so” is in order. I’ve been preaching against ChatGPT since its hideous prose started showing up in college application essays and I haven’t exactly been subtle.
Beyond that, however, I actually provided a list of ChatGPT clichés on Reddit… written by ChatGPT. Apparently, some people are only getting that memo now. Well, here’s the list. It should be self-explanatory.
Prompt: Which clichéd metaphors appear the most frequently in college application essays? Be specific and include the ones that ChatGPT deploys or would deploy if tasked with generating a college application essay.
ChatGPT 3.5: “When it comes to clichéd metaphors in college application essays, certain phrases and comparisons tend to recur. While I don’t intentionally deploy clichés, I can generate examples that may align with common metaphors found in such essays. Here are some clichéd metaphors that applicants often use:
Journey/Path Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Embarking on this academic journey…”
- Example: “As I traverse the halls of knowledge, each step propels me further on my academic journey at [University Name].”
Book/Life Chapter Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Turning the page to the next chapter of my life…”
- Example: “The University of [University Name] is where I will turn the page to the next chapter of my academic story.”
Puzzle Metaphor:
- Cliché: “My diverse experiences have formed a unique puzzle.”
- Example: “Like pieces of a puzzle, my varied experiences come together to create a complete picture of who I am.”
Growth/Blossoming Metaphor:
- Cliché: “I have blossomed into the person I am today.”
- Example: “Within the nurturing environment of [University Name], I am poised to continue my intellectual blossoming.”
Tapestry Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Contributing to the rich tapestry of the university community.”
- Example: “I look forward to weaving my own thread into the vibrant tapestry of academic life at [University Name].”
Building/Construction Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Building the foundation for my future.”
- Example: “At [University Name], I aim to construct the solid foundation upon which my future success will stand.”
Light/Darkness Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Shining a light on my passions and interests.”
- Example: “The University of [University Name] will be the beacon illuminating my path through the darkness of academic exploration.”
Window/Door Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Opening doors to new opportunities.”
- Example: “The doors of possibility swing wide at [University Name], providing endless opportunities for academic and personal growth.”
Garden/Seeds Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Planting the seeds of knowledge.”
- Example: “I am eager to plant the seeds of knowledge and watch them grow in the fertile soil of [University Name].”
Mountain/Peak Metaphor:
- Cliché: “Climbing the mountain of success.”
- Example: “With the University of [University Name] as my guide, I am prepared to scale the peaks of academic achievement.”
While metaphors can be powerful in conveying meaning, it’s crucial to use them judiciously and ensure they add depth and originality to the essay rather than relying on clichés that may make the writing sound predictable or formulaic.”
There are more than that, of course. Certain clichés have migrated from business bullshit and corporate platitudes to college applications and they’re just as embarrassing in an essay as they are on LinkedIn. Others are specific to the college application essay, which is yet another reason why freshly-minted college-aged consultants and editors aren’t worth hiring: they can’t pick them out. I’ve addressed those at length in my impromptu voice chats and the #essays channel on the A2C Discord Server, and occasionally on my Instagram and largely-neglected TikTok account. Here are a few I’ve come to especially hate over the last two years:
• Referring to an academic field or major as “the realm of ____,” “the ____ sphere,” or “the world of ____” is boring.
• As admirable as it is to want to “grow as a person,” this phrase is meaningless: an example of “telling,” rather than “showing.”
• “Limitless” or “unlimited possibilities.” A romantic notion, but there’s not a school on Earth that can live up to this.
Smart applicants will keep ChatGPT –– and the consultants who use it or its variations to edit, generate “sample essays,” or brainstorm –– at arm’s length.
