What are some good ideas for what to write my college essay about?

Feeling stuck about your college essay topic is actually way more common than you might think, so you're definitely not alone. The truth is, you don’t need some dramatic or highly unusual event to write a compelling essay—what matters most is how you approach and reflect on your experiences.

One useful strategy is to focus on a small moment or object that reveals something meaningful about who you are. For example, instead of writing a big essay about moving schools, you might zone in on a specific afternoon when you sat alone in the cafeteria and noticed a tiny detail—maybe the way someone folded napkins, which reminded you of home, or led you to start a lunchtime doodling habit that helped you connect with others over time.

Some good topic ideas when you don't have a big, unique story:

- Write about a regular routine or object you interact with often—like making your favorite breakfast, riding the bus, or organizing your workspace—and what that says about your personality or values.
- Reflect on a small challenge or misunderstanding you faced, and how it shaped the way you view other people or yourself. For instance, maybe a group project went sideways because of miscommunication, and you learned to value clear leadership or empathy.
- Share a quirky hobby, interest, or tradition in your family, and what it means to you. Sometimes stories about repairing an old bike with your grandfather, memorizing every lyric to a favorite song, or managing the garden with your siblings can be unexpectedly memorable—especially if you show your passion.

A great example: One applicant wrote about their collection of keys. Each key was for something mundane—an old bike lock, a neighbor’s plant-watering request, a childhood diary. This collection started as something random, but over time became symbolic of the trust people placed in them. The essay used honesty, subtle humor, and vivid imagery to show their reliability and personality—without any ‘epic’ event.

Think about moments when you felt curious, proud, challenged, or changed. Even if they didn’t seem like a big deal at the time, there’s often meaning when you dig deeper. If a topic feels "too personal," it actually might be just right—colleges like essays that are honest and self-aware.

Finally, brainstorm by writing a list of details (objects, places, anecdotes) that only you would think of. Pick a few and try writing short, one-paragraph stories using them. Sometimes your best idea comes from expanding on something that seems small at first.

You’ve got this! Focus on what reveals the real you, and you’ll find a story that works.