What are some good titles for college application essays?

Great question! Titles can add a nice touch to your college application essay, but they're definitely not required, and many students leave their essays untitled. That said, a well-chosen title can draw in the reader, hint at your theme, or help your essay stand out, especially if it’s clever or intriguing without being forced.

First, consider the function of your title—it should invite curiosity, give a sense of your topic or tone, and match the vibe of your story. If your essay deals with a pivotal moment or personal growth, the title might reference a symbol, phrase, or image from the narrative. For example, if you wrote about learning resilience while working at a bakery, you might title your essay "Rolling with the Dough." If you discussed moving between cultures through your love of food, something like "Between Spices and Stories" can be evocative without stating the obvious.

Some students use unique phrases or even dialogue pulled from their essay, like:
- "Are You Lost?" (if the essay examines identity or being out of place)
- "The Color of My Socks" (if there's a quirk or metaphor tied to socks representing individuality)
- "24 Minutes, 17 Seconds" (if the essay focuses on a precise moment or turning point)
- "A Seat at the Table" (can be both literal and metaphorical)

Alternatively, simple titles like “Curiosity,” “In Translation,” or “Leap” can be effective if they reflect the core idea of the essay. Sometimes, a creative or whimsical title can set the right mood, but make sure it fits the tone of your essay—forced puns or overly elaborate phrases can feel off-putting.

If you’re stuck, try these strategies:
1. Look for a word, phrase, or image you repeat or emphasize in your essay.
2. Think about the emotion or question you want to leave with the reader.
3. Try a two-part title separated by a colon, e.g., “Threading the Needle: Lessons from My Grandmother’s Quilt.”

Personally, for my own essay on organizing community cleanups, I went with “Saturday Mornings in Neon Gloves.” It referenced a literal detail from my story and added a bit of personality.

In summary: focus first on your content, then brainstorm titles that amplify or echo the heart of your story. Don’t stress too much—admissions officers care more about your narrative, but a thoughtful title is the cherry on top!