What makes a college entry essay stand out to admissions officers?

It’s totally normal to feel pressure to write a standout college essay, especially when it seems like every classmate has something spectacular to share. The secret is that admissions officers aren’t always drawn to the biggest achievements or the wildest stories—they’re looking for authenticity, depth, and a distinct personal voice.

What really makes an essay memorable is the way you convey something meaningful about yourself. Instead of worrying about how impressive the story is, pay attention to the details and reflections that only you can provide. For instance, even an ordinary moment—like sharing late-night dinners with your grandmother or learning to patch a tire with your uncle—can become powerful essays if you focus on what those experiences meant to you and how they shaped your character or perspective.

Telling a unique story is helpful, but it’s less about the story being rare and more about how you tell it. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so specific, evocative details and honest reflection catch their eyes. If you write about a common topic (like a tough class, family dynamics, or a club), make it uniquely yours. Zoom in on a single moment or challenge and analyze how it changed you. For example: if you’re writing about moving to a new city, don’t spend the entire essay describing the move; instead, focus on one afternoon when you felt out of place, and share how you eventually made a new friend or saw the world differently because of that moment.

Try to avoid cliché conclusions or generic lessons like "hard work pays off" unless you specifically show how you reached that realization, and ideally, if there’s a creative twist to it. Admissions officers want to see self-reflection—why did this matter to you, and what did you learn about yourself that might not be obvious anywhere else in your application?

Don’t be afraid to show vulnerability or uncertainty. Often, essays that stand out are honest and nuanced, not about having everything figured out. If you’re struggling to get started, ask yourself: what’s something about your life no one else could write about in quite the same way? That’s usually the right path. If it helps, jot down a list of small moments that have stuck with you and try writing a paragraph about each. The most memorable essays often come from the quiet, specific details of everyday life.

If you’d like more personalized feedback, working with a review service can help you home in on what’s unique and compelling in your draft. Above all, remember: your perspective is what makes your essay stand out—not having accomplished the ‘biggest’ thing in the room.