What are some tips or resources for writing strong college essays?

Feeling uncertain about your college essays is completely normal—lots of applicants worry about whether their ideas are unique or strong enough. The goal is to make your essay personal and reflective, showing an authentic part of who you are rather than what you think colleges want you to say.

A couple of practical tips: Focus your essay on a specific moment or experience rather than your entire life or a generic trait. Zooming in on a particular story usually helps the reader see your personality more clearly. For example, instead of trying to cover everything about being an older sibling, you might tell the story of a single afternoon when you helped your younger brother overcome his fear of swimming. The small, meaningful moments often reveal more about your character.

Another tip—avoid overused topics unless you bring something truly unique (like a fresh perspective or unexpected outcome). And don’t be afraid to be vulnerable or honest about setbacks, as long as you show growth. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, and authenticity stands out.

As for resources, "College Essay Guy" has some fantastic free worksheets and brainstorming exercises to help you get started. YouTube channels like "Johns Hopkins Office of Admissions" share examples of successful essays (with breakdowns of why they work), which can offer inspiration without tempting you to copy them. For books, "On Writing the College Application Essay" by Harry Bauld is a classic. If you have access, English teachers or school counselors can also provide valuable feedback.

In terms of timing, try to have a solid draft a month before your first deadline. This gives you enough space to edit, get feedback, and avoid last-minute stress. If you’re a procrastinator, setting up personal deadlines or writing with a friend can really help. Many people find their best ideas come out during the rewriting process, so build in time for at least two or three revisions.

To summarize, start early, be specific and authentic, and use trusted resources for inspiration—not imitation. Keep reminding yourself that your story has value, and let your voice come through.