Is there a way to 'hack' the college essay for better results?

II’m a Yale graduate and college admissions advisor with over 8 years of experience helping students gain admission to top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. I’ve worked with thousands of students on their essays, and I can tell you there’s no magic formula or secret set of buzzwords that will guarantee admission. In fact, admissions officers are quick to spot when someone is trying too hard to fit a “winning” mold.

Instead of looking for hacks, focus on authenticity and strong storytelling. Admissions readers want to understand you — your quirks, interests, and the way you think — rather than see a generic essay filled with buzzwords like “leadership,” “passion,” or “resilience” without meaningful depth.

That said, there are proven ways to make your essay stand out:

1. Show, Don’t Just Tell: Rather than saying “I’m hardworking,” share a moment that illustrates it. For example, if you love tinkering with gadgets, describe an early morning when you tried fixing your family’s coffee maker and what that taught you about trial, error, and patience.

2. Start with a Strong Hook: Your first sentence should grab attention. This could be a surprising statement, a vivid description, or even a question — for instance, “I’ve always believed solving a Rubik’s Cube says more about persistence than intelligence.”

3. Narrow the Focus: Instead of summarizing your entire life, zoom in on one specific experience or moment. A singular story — like the first time you failed at something important or a mistake that changed your perspective — can be far more compelling.

4. Avoid Clichés and Overused Topics: If you write about common themes like sports or moving, bring a unique personal angle that makes the story feel fresh and deeply personal.

5. Be Reflective: The most memorable essays show how you’ve grown and what you’ve learned, not just what happened. Readers care about the “so what” — how the experience shaped who you are today.

Trying to follow too many “hacks” can backfire, making your essay sound forced or inauthentic. The best essays may even break a few so-called rules — but always in service of telling a true, meaningful story about you. If you feel stuck, write as if you’re sharing a story with a friend instead of addressing a panel of judges. This can reduce pressure and help your genuine voice shine through.

Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools, including the Ivy League and Stanford. To give each student the highest level of attention, I keep my caseload small — booking early guarantees a place. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families where we’ll review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book directly through my profile.

I know this process can feel overwhelming at times, but you are fully capable of navigating it successfully. I’m always here to help guide you through it.