What are colleges actually looking for in an essay?
I’ve started brainstorming college essay topics but every time I think I have a good idea, I immediately start to wonder if it's what admissions officers actually want to read. Some people say they want you to be really unique and profound, but others tell me it’s all about being authentic and genuine.
If anyone knows what colleges are really hoping to see, or has heard advice from counselors or actual admissions reps, could you share your thoughts? I’m worried I’ll write something too boring or too out there. Also, are there examples of essays that stood out for the right reasons? Trying not to overthink this too much, but it’s hard not to!
If anyone knows what colleges are really hoping to see, or has heard advice from counselors or actual admissions reps, could you share your thoughts? I’m worried I’ll write something too boring or too out there. Also, are there examples of essays that stood out for the right reasons? Trying not to overthink this too much, but it’s hard not to!
6 months ago
•
45 views
Lydia Schooler
• 6 months ago
Advisor
I’m 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’ve read thousands of essays and know exactly what admissions officers are hoping to find when they open yours.
Colleges are looking for insight into who you are as a person — beyond your grades, test scores, and activities. They want to see how you think, what you value, and how you might contribute to their campus community. The “secret” isn’t choosing the most dramatic or unique story; it’s giving an honest, vivid snapshot of your personality, your perspective, and how you approach challenges.
Authenticity is the most important factor. If you try too hard to impress by sounding overly sophisticated or inventing a story that isn’t rooted in your experience, readers can usually tell. At the same time, sincere doesn’t mean boring — even ordinary moments can be powerful when told with genuine reflection and a clear point of view. I’ve seen memorable essays about making perfect scrambled eggs, where the writer reflected on lessons about patience and family learned from their grandfather. What made it stand out wasn’t the activity itself, but the honesty and personal meaning behind it.
Strong essays usually have:
* A clear, consistent voice that helps the reader feel they truly know you.
* Specific details or moments that show your values, growth, or personality.
* Thoughtful reflection — not just what happened, but what it meant to you and how it shaped you.
You don’t need a dramatic moral at the end, but admissions officers do look for evidence that you’ve learned or grown from your experiences, even small ones. If you’re worried a topic is “too boring,” ask if it reveals a side of you that isn’t shown elsewhere in your application. If you’re going for something unusual, make sure it still connects back to who you are and what you care about.
If you’re second-guessing yourself, try writing a quick draft paragraph or two and reading it out loud to someone who knows you well. They can tell if it sounds authentic or forced. Remember — the most memorable essays are authentic, thoughtful, and personal, and they help the reader clearly picture the person behind the application.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools, including the Ivy League and Stanford. To give each student the highest level of attention, I keep my caseload small — booking early guarantees a place. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families where we’ll review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book directly through my profile.
Colleges are looking for insight into who you are as a person — beyond your grades, test scores, and activities. They want to see how you think, what you value, and how you might contribute to their campus community. The “secret” isn’t choosing the most dramatic or unique story; it’s giving an honest, vivid snapshot of your personality, your perspective, and how you approach challenges.
Authenticity is the most important factor. If you try too hard to impress by sounding overly sophisticated or inventing a story that isn’t rooted in your experience, readers can usually tell. At the same time, sincere doesn’t mean boring — even ordinary moments can be powerful when told with genuine reflection and a clear point of view. I’ve seen memorable essays about making perfect scrambled eggs, where the writer reflected on lessons about patience and family learned from their grandfather. What made it stand out wasn’t the activity itself, but the honesty and personal meaning behind it.
Strong essays usually have:
* A clear, consistent voice that helps the reader feel they truly know you.
* Specific details or moments that show your values, growth, or personality.
* Thoughtful reflection — not just what happened, but what it meant to you and how it shaped you.
You don’t need a dramatic moral at the end, but admissions officers do look for evidence that you’ve learned or grown from your experiences, even small ones. If you’re worried a topic is “too boring,” ask if it reveals a side of you that isn’t shown elsewhere in your application. If you’re going for something unusual, make sure it still connects back to who you are and what you care about.
If you’re second-guessing yourself, try writing a quick draft paragraph or two and reading it out loud to someone who knows you well. They can tell if it sounds authentic or forced. Remember — the most memorable essays are authentic, thoughtful, and personal, and they help the reader clearly picture the person behind the application.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools, including the Ivy League and Stanford. To give each student the highest level of attention, I keep my caseload small — booking early guarantees a place. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families where we’ll review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book directly through my profile.
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