Ready to launch your business? Get started with the commerce platform made for entrepreneurs.

Shopify is specially designed to help you start, run and grow your business with easy customizable themes that let you build your brand,

marketing tools that get your products out there. Integrated shipping solutions that actually save you time.

From startups to scaleups, online, in person and on the go Shopify is made for

entrepreneurs like you sign up for your one dollar a month trial at shopify.com

slash setup greetings boomtown the Xfinity Wi-Fi is booming Xfinity combines the

power of internet and mobile so we've all got lightning fast speeds at home and on the go learn more at Xfinity combines the power of internet and mobile. So we've all got lightning fast speeds at home and on the go.

Learn more at Xfinity.com.

Restrictions apply.

Xfinity, internet required.

Actual speeds vary.

From KQED in San Francisco, this is Forum. I'm Mina Kim. It's that time of year when many high school seniors start working on their college

applications. And one of the trickiest parts is the personal essay. When is humor okay? Are any

topics off limits? Can I use AI? We tackle all of these questions and get tips this hour

on how to craft a personal essay that admissions officers want to read.

What do you want to know about writing a standout essay in 2024?

Or do you remember what your college essay was about?

Join us on Forum. I'm Mina Kim.

Listeners, reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way.

That's one of the essay prompts on this year's Common App, the platform students used to apply to multiple colleges at once. The college essay is often the most dreaded part of the application process,

but it's also your best way to distinguish yourself to an admissions officer, according to my guests.

And this hour, they share their insights and reporting on why the essay matters and how to write a great one.

...