Dear Anna,

I remember sitting where you are, trying to fit myself into 650 words for strangers who had never met me. I couldn't make that part easier for you, so I made you this instead.

It reads a draft the way an admissions officer does: quickly, honestly, looking for you in it. It grades hard, because a generous score wouldn't tell you anything. You have twenty grades. Use them all if that's what it takes.

You don't need me telling you how to write about yourself. You already know who you are. This just tells you whether it's making it onto the page.

I'm not going to tell you the outcome doesn't matter. It does, to both of us. I want you at the best school that will have you, and I'll help however you'll let me.

You can't get into a top school without first believing you can get into a top school. So aim as high as you can. I think you'll surprise yourself.

Sincerely,
哥哥