I totally agree with you, Keri. When I correct assignments for students who are learning to write their personal statement essays for medical and dental school, I deal with passive voice constantly. To be fair, these students are encouraged to use passive voice in all their other writing, so I always acknowledge that while encouraging them to limit it in the essays they plan to use for professional school applications. The difference I see in those who take my advice is amazing. Their personal experiences, including details about internships and research, come alive.
Amen to protecting (critical) thinking skills, intellectual pursuits, and common sense! And, who among us does not want to be engaged when we read? (sorry about the "to be" there)
I totally agree with you, Keri. When I correct assignments for students who are learning to write their personal statement essays for medical and dental school, I deal with passive voice constantly. To be fair, these students are encouraged to use passive voice in all their other writing, so I always acknowledge that while encouraging them to limit it in the essays they plan to use for professional school applications. The difference I see in those who take my advice is amazing. Their personal experiences, including details about internships and research, come alive.
Thank you Keri! This is gold! I have "The Elements of Style" book sitting on my desk. I will move it from 'sitting' to 'reading' it!
Amen to protecting (critical) thinking skills, intellectual pursuits, and common sense! And, who among us does not want to be engaged when we read? (sorry about the "to be" there)