Is it okay to use 'you' in my college essay?

Using "you" in your college essay, or writing in second person, isn’t automatically a dealbreaker, but it’s a stylistic choice that comes with some pros and cons. Most college essays are written in the first person because you’re telling your own story, and admissions officers want to hear your authentic voice and perspective. However, second person can be effective if used sparingly and intentionally, especially to draw the reader into a moment or to make a description more immersive.

Here's the key: if you decide to use second person, make sure it doesn't confuse the reader about whose experience is being described. For example, “You look around and realize how much the place has changed” can be powerful if it captures a universal feeling or helps transport the reader into your shoes for a particular moment. But if you use “you” throughout the essay, it might start to sound like you’re giving the reader instructions or could dilute your personal voice.

Some students have used second person to frame a specific anecdote—a kind of mini-scene flashback within their essay—before returning to first person for reflection. For instance, one essay opened with: "You stand just outside the gym, the distant hum of the crowd swirling through your mind. It's in this moment you realize: you’re no longer the newcomer." The rest of the essay then shifted into first person, explaining how that moment shaped the applicant's outlook. Admissions officers responded well because the scene was vivid and relevant, but the reflection stayed personal and clear.

If you want to use second person, try limiting it to short sections that really benefit from that immersive style. Afterward, shift back to first person for analysis or reflection. Always read your essay aloud—or have someone else read it—to make sure it still sounds like your story. The ultimate goal is clarity and authenticity: you want the admissions team to finish your essay knowing more about who you are.

So, in short, using "you" is okay if it’s deliberate and adds something unique to your storytelling. Don’t overdo it, and be sure to bring the essay back to your own voice. If you’re ever in doubt, sharing your draft with a teacher or trusted reader can help you see if the style is working!