How to Brag in a College Essay Without Sounding Arrogant

Short answer: Accomplishments stated in context are just facts.

Longer answer: If you did X, Y, and Z, and you explain why you did them or how you did them, you’re not bragging — you’re reporting. College admissions essays are one of the few socially acceptable places to be slightly immodest. Use that.

Two rules: don’t exaggerate, and don’t tear anyone else down to make yourself look better.

If you want to be sneaky about it, have someone else say it for you. Put it in dialogue. The technique is brilliant — if I do say so myself.