What do colleges really want to see in college essays?

This is a great question, and you’re definitely not alone in feeling confused about what colleges want from essays. The biggest thing to remember is that admissions officers are looking for authenticity and self-reflection more than a laundry list of impressive achievements or a jaw-dropping, dramatic life story.

They really want to get a sense of who you are beyond grades and test scores—what kind of person you are, what you care about, how you think, and how you handle challenges or growth. That means your "voice" and point of view matter a lot. The way you tell your story, the details you include, and your ability to connect experiences to your personality or values are all important.

For example, a friend of mine wrote his Common App essay about making homemade pizza with his family on Fridays. On the surface, this isn’t an earth-shattering topic, but he used the story to reveal his curiosity about science (experimenting with dough and ingredients), his appreciation for community (bringing neighbors over to join), and how traditions helped him through tough times. His essay was memorable because it was honest, specific, and written in a way that let his personality come through.

So, you don’t need a "wow" topic; you need a genuine story told in your own style with insight into who you are. Focus on a particular moment or experience that meant something to you—maybe a small realization, a funny mishap, or even a challenge you faced in your daily life. Use specifics and sensory details, and most importantly, reflect on why this story matters to you and how it connects to the person you are now or hope to become.

In short, admissions officers want to finish your essay feeling like they know you better. Pick a topic you care about and write honestly—you’ll stand out for being real, not for trying too hard to impress.