How do you come up with good college essay ideas?
I'm having a hard time figuring out what to write about for my personal statement. I know they want something unique, but whenever I try brainstorming, nothing feels original or interesting enough.
Have any of you found ways to spark ideas, or had any tips for finding a topic that stands out? I don't have a big dramatic life story, so I'm worried I'll come across as boring. I just want to write something that's actually me.
Have any of you found ways to spark ideas, or had any tips for finding a topic that stands out? I don't have a big dramatic life story, so I'm worried I'll come across as boring. I just want to write something that's actually me.
6 months ago
•
54 views
Lydia Schooler
• 6 months ago
Advisor
As a Yale graduate and college admissions advisor with over 8 years of experience helping students gain admission to top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT, I can assure you that you don’t need a dramatic life story to write a memorable personal statement. Many of the best essays start from small, everyday moments that reveal something meaningful about who you are.
Instead of searching for a huge, unique event, focus on what makes your perspective or reactions distinct. Think about times you felt challenged, curious, or changed—even in small ways. Make a quick list: what are the most memorable moments in the last couple of years? Maybe you found yourself acting as a mediator during a family disagreement, or you taught your younger sibling how to ride a bike, and in doing so, realized something about your patience and approach to leadership.
Another great technique is free-writing. Set a timer for 10–15 minutes and write about a time you laughed really hard, a pet peeve, a family tradition, or a moment you felt misunderstood. Don’t worry about grammar or polish—sometimes the best ideas emerge without pressure.
You can also ask yourself: what’s something important to you that might not show up elsewhere in your application? If you’re a birdwatcher or you make elaborate spreadsheets for your fantasy football league, think about what those habits say about you. Are you detail-oriented, patient, creative? Colleges appreciate specificity and self-awareness more than a flashy story.
For inspiration, try the “object” exercise: pick something meaningful to you—a cracked phone case, a lucky keychain, your first toolkit. Write the story behind it, and see if it leads to deeper themes like resilience or resourcefulness. I once worked with an applicant who wrote a standout essay about making pancakes every Saturday morning, and how that ritual reflected their approach to relationships and stress.
The most memorable essays zoom in on specific, authentic experiences rather than trying to cover all your achievements. Trust that the details of your everyday life, when explored thoughtfully, can say a lot about who you are. If you feel stuck, talk through your ideas with someone who knows you well—they may see a story or skill you overlook because it feels “normal” to you.
Above all, your essay doesn’t have to be dramatic—it has to be honest and reflective. That’s what makes it uniquely yours.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students uncover and shape essay topics that highlight their authentic selves and stand out to admissions officers. If you’d like tailored feedback or brainstorming support, you can connect with me here on Sundial.
Instead of searching for a huge, unique event, focus on what makes your perspective or reactions distinct. Think about times you felt challenged, curious, or changed—even in small ways. Make a quick list: what are the most memorable moments in the last couple of years? Maybe you found yourself acting as a mediator during a family disagreement, or you taught your younger sibling how to ride a bike, and in doing so, realized something about your patience and approach to leadership.
Another great technique is free-writing. Set a timer for 10–15 minutes and write about a time you laughed really hard, a pet peeve, a family tradition, or a moment you felt misunderstood. Don’t worry about grammar or polish—sometimes the best ideas emerge without pressure.
You can also ask yourself: what’s something important to you that might not show up elsewhere in your application? If you’re a birdwatcher or you make elaborate spreadsheets for your fantasy football league, think about what those habits say about you. Are you detail-oriented, patient, creative? Colleges appreciate specificity and self-awareness more than a flashy story.
For inspiration, try the “object” exercise: pick something meaningful to you—a cracked phone case, a lucky keychain, your first toolkit. Write the story behind it, and see if it leads to deeper themes like resilience or resourcefulness. I once worked with an applicant who wrote a standout essay about making pancakes every Saturday morning, and how that ritual reflected their approach to relationships and stress.
The most memorable essays zoom in on specific, authentic experiences rather than trying to cover all your achievements. Trust that the details of your everyday life, when explored thoughtfully, can say a lot about who you are. If you feel stuck, talk through your ideas with someone who knows you well—they may see a story or skill you overlook because it feels “normal” to you.
Above all, your essay doesn’t have to be dramatic—it has to be honest and reflective. That’s what makes it uniquely yours.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students uncover and shape essay topics that highlight their authentic selves and stand out to admissions officers. If you’d like tailored feedback or brainstorming support, you can connect with me here on Sundial.
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