What topics or experiences make for a strong college essay?
I'm working on my college essay and honestly, I'm kind of stuck on what I should write about. I know people always say to pick something personal and meaningful, but I'm worried that my life isn't "unique" enough compared to some of the crazy stories I've heard from others.
I've thought about writing about my experience moving in the middle of high school, but it's not like it was really dramatic or anything. Does anyone have suggestions for what kinds of experiences work best, or should I focus more on a specific moment or on my interests? I'm really hoping to stand out even though nothing major or super unusual has happened to me. Any advice from other applicants or people who have gone through this would be amazing!
I've thought about writing about my experience moving in the middle of high school, but it's not like it was really dramatic or anything. Does anyone have suggestions for what kinds of experiences work best, or should I focus more on a specific moment or on my interests? I'm really hoping to stand out even though nothing major or super unusual has happened to me. Any advice from other applicants or people who have gone through this would be amazing!
6 months ago
•
47 views
Lydia Schooler
• 6 months ago
Advisor
It's totally normal to feel like your story isn't "unique" enough—tons of students worry about this. But you don't need an earth-shattering event to write a strong college essay. What really matters is how thoughtfully and authentically you reflect on your experiences and how you connect them to who you are.
The best college essays often come from everyday experiences when you dig deep and find personal meaning. Instead of writing a generic piece about moving schools, for example, focus on a small, specific moment from that experience and how it affected you. Maybe there was a day you sat alone at lunch and observed students around you, leading you to notice something about how people form friendships. Or, perhaps you joined a club as the "new kid" and learned the value of vulnerability or active listening. An essay built around one vivid scene or moment—however small—can be more powerful than a broad summary.
Another great approach is to show your genuine interests or quirks. For example, maybe you spend hours building elaborate playlists, doodling patterns in your notebook, or fixing up computers for neighbors. If you dive into why those things matter to you and how they reflect your values, curiosity, or sense of humor, you'll stand out. Colleges want to get a sense of how you think and what excites you—your curiosity, resilience, or sense of wonder.
One student wrote a fantastic essay about watching YouTube tutorials to learn how to fix a broken toaster. Through this mundane activity, she showed her resourcefulness, patience, and determination. It wasn't about toasters; it was about her mindset.
Whatever topic you choose, focus on:
- A snapshot or story (not just summarizing events)
- Honest self-reflection—what did you learn, change, or come to realize about yourself?
- Your voice: it should sound like you (imagine you're telling a smart friend)
Ultimately, even the most ordinary moments can become extraordinary essay topics if you write honestly about your thoughts, feelings, and growth. Don't worry about competing with "crazy stories." Your perspective is enough to make your essay memorable!
The best college essays often come from everyday experiences when you dig deep and find personal meaning. Instead of writing a generic piece about moving schools, for example, focus on a small, specific moment from that experience and how it affected you. Maybe there was a day you sat alone at lunch and observed students around you, leading you to notice something about how people form friendships. Or, perhaps you joined a club as the "new kid" and learned the value of vulnerability or active listening. An essay built around one vivid scene or moment—however small—can be more powerful than a broad summary.
Another great approach is to show your genuine interests or quirks. For example, maybe you spend hours building elaborate playlists, doodling patterns in your notebook, or fixing up computers for neighbors. If you dive into why those things matter to you and how they reflect your values, curiosity, or sense of humor, you'll stand out. Colleges want to get a sense of how you think and what excites you—your curiosity, resilience, or sense of wonder.
One student wrote a fantastic essay about watching YouTube tutorials to learn how to fix a broken toaster. Through this mundane activity, she showed her resourcefulness, patience, and determination. It wasn't about toasters; it was about her mindset.
Whatever topic you choose, focus on:
- A snapshot or story (not just summarizing events)
- Honest self-reflection—what did you learn, change, or come to realize about yourself?
- Your voice: it should sound like you (imagine you're telling a smart friend)
Ultimately, even the most ordinary moments can become extraordinary essay topics if you write honestly about your thoughts, feelings, and growth. Don't worry about competing with "crazy stories." Your perspective is enough to make your essay memorable!
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