What are some tips for writing a strong Common App essay?
I'm starting to brainstorm ideas for my Common App essay, and honestly, it's feeling a bit overwhelming. There are so many topics to pick from, and I keep worrying that nothing in my life is "unique" enough to stand out.
For those who have already written their essays or have helpful advice, what worked for you? Did you focus more on a specific moment, or did you write about something general? Would you recommend sticking closely to one of the prompts, or is it okay to be a little creative?
Any advice on the brainstorming or writing process would be super helpful. I want my essay to sound like me without being boring or too predictable, but I also don't want to take any weird risks.
For those who have already written their essays or have helpful advice, what worked for you? Did you focus more on a specific moment, or did you write about something general? Would you recommend sticking closely to one of the prompts, or is it okay to be a little creative?
Any advice on the brainstorming or writing process would be super helpful. I want my essay to sound like me without being boring or too predictable, but I also don't want to take any weird risks.
3 months ago
•
18 views
Camille L.
• 3 months ago
Advisor
The feeling of overwhelm with the Common App essay is something almost everyone experiences, so you're definitely not alone. One of the best ways to start is by zooming in on very specific moments that had a big impact on how you see yourself or your world. It’s not about picking the most unusual experience, but rather making your reflection and voice come through clearly.
You don’t need a completely unique background or experience; admissions officers are looking for authenticity and depth. Think about a moment (not the entire story) that changed you, made you question yourself, or led you to do something differently. For instance, instead of writing about your summer job, you could focus on a single unexpected interaction with a customer and what it taught you about patience or empathy. Zooming in on a particular scene can help you avoid predictability and clichés.
As for the prompts, most students indirectly answer more than one, and almost all essays fit under the "topic of your choice" prompt (Prompt #7). Don’t stress about matching a prompt perfectly—start with your story, and then see how it aligns. Creativity is encouraged, as long as the narrative is focused and clearly reflects your perspective. It’s smart to keep your structure solid (clear beginning, middle, and end) without getting so experimental that your story is hard to follow.
When brainstorming, jot down quirks, values, routines, or things your friends know you for. Sometimes the strongest essays come from everyday details: a family tradition, the playlist that gets you through tough days, or what’s always in your backpack. Those details can ground your essay in your personality and help your voice shine through.
Finally, have someone who knows you well read a draft—not for grammar, but to see if it sounds like you. Their feedback on your authenticity is often way more useful than technical notes at first.
Bottom line: focus your essay on a small, meaningful moment, be honest about how it changed you, and don’t be afraid to add small personal touches or humor where it fits. For example, one applicant wrote about making pancakes with their little brother every Saturday and tied it into larger themes of responsibility and sibling bonding, turning the seemingly ordinary into something memorable. That’s often what sticks with readers most.
You don’t need a completely unique background or experience; admissions officers are looking for authenticity and depth. Think about a moment (not the entire story) that changed you, made you question yourself, or led you to do something differently. For instance, instead of writing about your summer job, you could focus on a single unexpected interaction with a customer and what it taught you about patience or empathy. Zooming in on a particular scene can help you avoid predictability and clichés.
As for the prompts, most students indirectly answer more than one, and almost all essays fit under the "topic of your choice" prompt (Prompt #7). Don’t stress about matching a prompt perfectly—start with your story, and then see how it aligns. Creativity is encouraged, as long as the narrative is focused and clearly reflects your perspective. It’s smart to keep your structure solid (clear beginning, middle, and end) without getting so experimental that your story is hard to follow.
When brainstorming, jot down quirks, values, routines, or things your friends know you for. Sometimes the strongest essays come from everyday details: a family tradition, the playlist that gets you through tough days, or what’s always in your backpack. Those details can ground your essay in your personality and help your voice shine through.
Finally, have someone who knows you well read a draft—not for grammar, but to see if it sounds like you. Their feedback on your authenticity is often way more useful than technical notes at first.
Bottom line: focus your essay on a small, meaningful moment, be honest about how it changed you, and don’t be afraid to add small personal touches or humor where it fits. For example, one applicant wrote about making pancakes with their little brother every Saturday and tied it into larger themes of responsibility and sibling bonding, turning the seemingly ordinary into something memorable. That’s often what sticks with readers most.
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Camille L.
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
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5.0 (4 reviews)