What are some common essay prompts on college applications?

Starting early is a great approach! Most colleges do have similar types of essay prompts, so brainstorming in advance can save you a lot of stress later. Here's a breakdown of the most common essay prompts you'll encounter:

1. Personal Statement (Common Application):
This is usually the main essay (up to 650 words). Topics are broad—Tell a story about your background, identity, an interest, or a meaningful challenge. For example: "Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking?"

2. "Why This College?" Supplement:
Many colleges ask why you're interested in their school. They're looking for specifics—academic programs, campus culture, or unique opportunities that genuinely attract you. For instance: "Why does X University appeal to you?" Avoid generic responses—mention a specific professor, course, or tradition if you can.

3. Community or Identity Questions:
Prompts like "Tell us about a community you belong to and your place within it" or "How has your background shaped you?" are common. These let you discuss anything from family and heritage to clubs, online communities, or unique life experiences.

4. Extracurricular or Activity Essays:
Some applications (like the UC Personal Insight Questions or the Common App's Activities section) ask you to describe your most meaningful extracurricular, what you contributed, or what you learned. Think beyond titles—maybe you took initiative on a service project or started a club.

5. Challenge or Failure Prompts:
Examples might include: "Describe a challenge you've faced and how you overcame it" or "Discuss a time you failed and what you learned." Instead of retelling the setback, focus on growth and specifics about what changed as a result or how it redirected your efforts.

6. Academic Curiosity or Intellectual Engagement:
Schools (especially selective ones) often want you to reflect on your learning. "Describe a time you were intellectually excited or curious outside the classroom," for example. This could be anything from building a robot to delving into a book or independent research.

7. Diversity, Inclusion, or Contribution to Campus:
Questions like "How will you contribute to our campus community?" expect you to share your perspective, background, or what makes you unique—and how that will enhance student life.

8. Creative or Unusual Prompts:
Some colleges (like UChicago or Tufts) use quirky questions ("What does #YOLO mean to you?"), but most are broadly reflective or focused on fit.

Start by jotting down stories or experiences that fit more than one of these categories. For example, a story about tutoring kids in your neighborhood might work for personal growth, community, and even intellectual curiosity prompts. Drafting a few core essays gives you material to adapt for specific colleges later. Good luck with your brainstorming this summer!