Your palms sweat and your forehead gleams with the anxiety of the soon-approaching deadline of your application. The attention you dedicate to a single paper can result in overwhelming stress—but it doesn’t have to. In fact, writer’s block does not have to be an impediment to composing your best application and putting forth the best version of yourself. In fact, an application—whether it be for a job interview or to be accepted into a prestigious organization—is just another outlet to express yourself and share with others what makes you, you. Here are some tips for delivering a fabulous and informative application while maintaining qualities that separate it from other applications.

1. Begin in a creative way. When asked to introduce yourself, avoid being too broad and general. For example, when applying to a club centered around journalism, while you may love writing, keep in mind that everyone else who is applying does as well. Therefore, twist your love for writing into something unique that will stand out from the crowd, and share what styles of prose peak your interest and how you can contribute to the team with your skills.

2. Be involved. Show that you care for the organization and that you have done your research. List specific examples of the works and projects that the organization has published that inspired you and why. By displaying that you are actually paying attention to the organization’s craft, you demonstrate that you truly care about what you are applying to.

3. Credentials! Why should YOU above everyone else deserve a place in the institution? What can YOU offer to the group that no one else has the capability of? Is it your skill? Connections? Perfect time management skills? Prove yourself and describe the expectations you set for yourself.

4. Picking it right. For teacher recommendations, go to the teacher who knows you best and not the one in the class in which you never participate in. Teachers feel honored knowing you trust them by giving you a good review, so do not expect to only receive negative feedback, but be wise about your choice.

It is crucial to keep in mind that rejection does not define you, and you should not feel any less worthy if you aren’t accepted into an organization. Like many other things in life, we have to accept the circumstances and move on to bigger and better things. In that process, we are continually improving ourselves and expanding the boundaries of our abilities. In turn, as we develop ourselves, our applications will also reflect the lessons we have gathered over the years.