What topics can you write about in a college essay?

The personal statement really can be about almost anything—what matters most is how you tell your story and what it reveals about you. Admissions officers are looking less for the 'what' (the specific event) and more for the 'so what' (what the experience says about your perspective, growth, or personality).

It’s a common misconception that the topic must be something huge like overcoming tragedy or winning a national award. In reality, essays about small, everyday moments often feel more personal and relatable, especially if you dig into the details and reflect on why those moments matter.

For example, some memorable essays have focused on things like:
- The routine of making breakfast with a sibling and how it shaped the applicant’s relationship-building skills
- A failed attempt at baking bread that led to reflections on patience and learning from mistakes
- Riding a city bus and internal observations about community and identity

In fact, admissions officers often say they’re drawn in by essays that take something small and use it as a window into who you are. One student I know wrote about the 'lost and found' bin at school and used it as a metaphor for finding one’s sense of belonging. Another wrote about caring for their family’s collection of houseplants and compared it to nurturing friendships.

When brainstorming topics, ask yourself: What’s something I care deeply about, even if it feels ordinary? Is there a moment or interest that shows how I think, what motivates me, or how I respond to challenges—even just small ones?

If you’re stuck, try making a list of memorable moments, even minor ones, and jot down what each experience taught you or revealed about you. You might find that a conversation with a family member or a hobby you’re passionate about is more revealing than the biggest achievement on your resume.

The best essays aren’t always the most dramatic—they’re the most genuine. So lean into your own experiences, however big or small, and focus on the insights that make you unique.