How do I figure out what to write about for my college essay?

Feeling stuck at the start of your college essay process is really common, and you’re definitely not alone. Many students worry that their story isn’t dramatic or unique enough, but you don’t need a major life event or some extraordinary talent to write a memorable essay. In fact, some of the most compelling personal statements come from the details of everyday experiences.

Instead of hunting for a big, flashy moment, try focusing on small stories or moments that matter to you. Think about times where you learned or realized something about yourself, even if it seemed insignificant at the time. For example, maybe you have a quirky family tradition that reveals something about your values, or a habit you picked up—like always re-tying your shoes before a game—that shows persistence, superstition, or attention to detail.

One useful exercise is to brainstorm a few defining characteristics or interests and then ask yourself, “When did I start thinking of myself this way?” For instance, if your friends say you’re dependable, can you recall a moment that really illustrates that trait? Essays don’t need to be about awards, trophies, or life-changing events. They can emerge from quiet moments, like how you solved a problem in your school club, how you bond with a grandparent over cooking, or what you notice on long walks after practice.

A student once wrote a great essay about organizing the family spice cabinet, using it as a metaphor for finding order in her life. Another wrote about the way he doodles during class and how drawing helps him think differently and approach problems more creatively. Both essays were deeply personal, even though neither topic was particularly dramatic or 'unique.'

For your own essay, try making a list of moments in the last year when you felt curious, challenged, frustrated, proud, or even just totally yourself. Pick one, and focus on the details: what happened, how you reacted, what you learned. That’s where your story lives, and it will be authentic because it’s yours. If you’re stuck, talk to friends or family members and ask what quirks or memories they associate with you—they often have great insights.

Most importantly, don’t worry about standing out with the topic alone. The way you write about something, and the insights you draw, make even simple stories memorable to readers.