Five traits. Three passes. One score.
Every essay you submit runs through the same three-pass review against five anchored traits. No black box. No vibes. The same rubric every time, applied the same way.
The five traits we score
Each trait scores 0–5 points. 25 points total. Every score comes with the rubric criterion that produced it.
Voice
The essay sounds like only you could have written it. Distinct identity on the page, not a polished mask.
Specificity
Concrete sensory detail over generalities. The genetics experiment, not "I love science."
Reflection
Visible self-awareness. "So what?" is answered. Growth or insight is earned, not declared.
Curiosity
Genuine intellectual engagement. A real mind thinking, not buzzwords about passion.
Craft
Structure, opening, prose economy. A reader finishes wanting more.
The three-pass review
Each essay is scored three times against the rubric. The final report combines the passes.
Pass 1 — Surface read
First read at admissions officer pace. What stands out, what stalls, what's forgettable.
Pass 2 — Rubric scoring
Slow read against each trait. Every line of criterion-evidence captured.
Pass 3 — Consistency check
Final pass to catch contradictions and rebalance scores against the rubric.