What are some common mistakes to avoid in college essays?

There are definitely some pitfalls that a lot of students run into when writing their college essays, and being mindful of them from the start puts you in a good spot. A few of the biggest mistakes you’ll want to avoid include being too generic, relying on clichés, or spending too much time summarizing accomplishments.

One common trap is choosing overused topics—like writing about a sports victory or injury, a mission trip, or the "immigrant's story"—without giving a fresh or deeply personal perspective. These topics can work if you make them unique to you, but generic retellings tend to blur together for admissions readers. For instance, instead of writing a play-by-play of a soccer championship, you might focus on a specific moment, like the sidelines pep talk you gave as captain when your team was down, and what you learned about leadership.

Another mistake is focusing the essay on someone else. Sometimes students write extensively about a grandparent, coach, or friend who changed their life, but by the end, the essay says more about that other person than the applicant. Always keep the focus and reflection on you—how did this experience shape you, and who did it help you become?

Also, steer clear of trying too hard to impress the reader through fancy vocabulary or dramatics. Admissions officers prefer authenticity. It’s better to sound like yourself and tell a compelling story than to use words you wouldn’t say in a conversation. For example, instead of "I endeavored to ameliorate my community’s plight," you might describe what you actually did in a voice that feels natural to you.

Finally, avoid turning your essay into a resume. Rather than listing achievements, dive deep into one or two experiences and reflect on their impact. A student who volunteered at a community center might focus on one meaningful interaction and what it taught them, rather than mentioning every activity they were involved in.

The best essays show growth, vulnerability, and introspection. Even if the topic is common, your unique perspective and self-reflection will make it stand out. Always ask: could anyone else write this essay, or is it something only I could say?