What do colleges really want to read in personal essays?

It's understandable to feel confused by all the advice about "standing out" and being "genuine." Colleges aren't searching for a single story or expecting everyone to have overcome huge obstacles. What they really want is to see you—your voice, your perspective, and how you make meaning out of your experiences.

Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so authenticity does matter more than a dramatic narrative. The idea of 'standing out' is less about having an unusual life event, and more about demonstrating how you think and what you care about. For example, if you're passionate about a community organization or a quirky hobby, reflect on a moment when that passion truly mattered. Focus on your unique connection to your interests or community rather than worrying about whether the experience is "big enough."

If you care a lot about your local library, maybe you can write about a particular instance when you helped someone there, and what you learned about patience or leadership. Or if you're deeply involved in your school’s gardening club, share a specific story—a time you solved a problem with the plants, or when your work brought people together. The key is to zoom in on a specific moment or realization and use it to reveal your character, values, and how you engage with the world.

Someone once wrote about teaching their younger sibling how to ride a bike. It was simple, but their essay focused on the challenges of patience, fear, and communication, and what those taught them about helping others. The story wasn’t dramatic, but it was personal and reflective, showing how the student thinks and grows.

So yes, it’s absolutely fine (and often better!) to write about interests, questions, and personal growth rather than headline-grabbing events. Your genuine insights and personality—how you approach your life—are what make you stand out.