What are the best strategies for writing a strong college essay for 2025 applications?
I’m starting to brainstorm for my college essay for next year (I’ll be applying Fall 2025), and I honestly have no idea where to start. Tons of people keep saying it should be deeply personal, but whenever I try sitting down to write, I just end up staring at a blank screen.
Should I focus more on storytelling or on showing my achievements in a unique way? I’ve got a couple ideas about talking through challenges I faced during sophomore year, but I don’t know if that’s too cliché. Would love any advice or resources people recommend so I can make my essay stand out this year.
Anyone willing to share what worked for them or mistakes to avoid?
Should I focus more on storytelling or on showing my achievements in a unique way? I’ve got a couple ideas about talking through challenges I faced during sophomore year, but I don’t know if that’s too cliché. Would love any advice or resources people recommend so I can make my essay stand out this year.
Anyone willing to share what worked for them or mistakes to avoid?
6 months ago
•
30 views
Roger Lopez
• 6 months ago
Advisor
Balancing storytelling and showcasing achievements is important, but for 2025 college essays, it's usually most effective to lead with authentic, vivid storytelling. Admissions officers read thousands of applications, so the most memorable essays help them picture who you are and leave a lasting impression through a specific lens—not by listing accolades.
Start by focusing on a single moment or experience that shaped your perspective, even if it seems ordinary. Instead of a broad overview (like 'sophomore year was tough'), zero in on a slice of life. For example, maybe you spent late nights building a robot from spare parts in your garage while questioning if you belonged on the robotics team. Describe the sights, sounds, and emotions you felt—then show how that moment connects to your bigger goals, values, or growth.
It's true that many essays cover challenges. To avoid clichés, ask yourself: what makes my experience mine? Maybe it’s not just overcoming a tough class, but how teaching your little brother the lessons you learned reignited your enthusiasm for math and led you to tutor kids in your community. That specific personal spin makes the difference.
A few on-the-ground strategies:
- Free-write or record yourself telling a friend about a moment you can't forget, then pull out interesting details or feelings.
- Make a list of quirky, defining traits (maybe you’re obsessed with cooking with your grandma or you organize sock drives at your school) and build a narrative around one.
- Avoid summarizing your resume. Admissions will see your activities elsewhere.
Mistake to skip: don't write what you think colleges want to hear; share your genuine voice with vulnerability and reflection. If you’re comfortable, ask a teacher or friend if the essay sounds like you—sometimes outside feedback is crucial for making sure your story is unique.
Start small and personal, revise with specificity, and let your true self shine through. That’s what makes an essay memorable.
Start by focusing on a single moment or experience that shaped your perspective, even if it seems ordinary. Instead of a broad overview (like 'sophomore year was tough'), zero in on a slice of life. For example, maybe you spent late nights building a robot from spare parts in your garage while questioning if you belonged on the robotics team. Describe the sights, sounds, and emotions you felt—then show how that moment connects to your bigger goals, values, or growth.
It's true that many essays cover challenges. To avoid clichés, ask yourself: what makes my experience mine? Maybe it’s not just overcoming a tough class, but how teaching your little brother the lessons you learned reignited your enthusiasm for math and led you to tutor kids in your community. That specific personal spin makes the difference.
A few on-the-ground strategies:
- Free-write or record yourself telling a friend about a moment you can't forget, then pull out interesting details or feelings.
- Make a list of quirky, defining traits (maybe you’re obsessed with cooking with your grandma or you organize sock drives at your school) and build a narrative around one.
- Avoid summarizing your resume. Admissions will see your activities elsewhere.
Mistake to skip: don't write what you think colleges want to hear; share your genuine voice with vulnerability and reflection. If you’re comfortable, ask a teacher or friend if the essay sounds like you—sometimes outside feedback is crucial for making sure your story is unique.
Start small and personal, revise with specificity, and let your true self shine through. That’s what makes an essay memorable.
Related Questions
Students also ask…
Where can I find strong Yale supplemental essay examples?
Can anyone share strong examples of 'Why This Major?' college essays?
How do you submit letters of recommendation to UC Berkeley?
Which application platform does UC Berkeley use for undergraduate admissions?
Do colleges check applications for AI-generated content?
Roger Lopez
Chicago, Illinois
Yale University BA, Political Science | Northwestern Kellogg School of Management, MBA Candidate |
Experience
4 years