What are the pros and cons of choosing a common vs unique essay topic for college applications?

It’s definitely normal to stress about whether your essay topic is "too common" or stands out enough. Here’s how to think about the trade-offs between writing about a unique topic versus a more traditional one:

Going with a unique topic—like your experience restoring old pinball machines—naturally stands out because it’s something admissions officers don’t see every day. They read thousands of essays, and a fresh subject can absolutely pique their interest. Plus, a niche interest often shows off your genuine curiosity, initiative, and depth in a particular area. If you have real stories to tell about troubleshooting mechanical issues, learning from older collectors, or discovering unexpected connections with people through pinball, that’s gold—especially if you connect it to who you are today.

The challenge with unique topics is making sure you still answer the implicit question, "Why does this matter?" Tie what you learned back to personal growth or qualities you bring to college. For example, sharing how careful, hands-on problem-solving with pinball machines made you a more patient learner or sparked an interest in engineering is compelling and relatable, even if few others have your exact experience.

More traditional topics like overcoming a learning disability can feel risky because admissions officers really do see a lot of them. It’s not a myth that some themes are overused (examples: sports injuries, moving to a new school, family hardships). That said, the actual writing, reflection, and authenticity count way more than how rare your topic is. If you have a personal, specific moment or perspective that only you can share within that “common” theme, it can still be powerful. For example, rather than narrating the big-picture journey of struggling and succeeding, zero in on a specific moment—maybe the first time you asked for accommodations, or a day when you figured out a learning strategy that worked just for you. Add details and insights no one else could provide.

Ultimately, admissions officers don’t want to read ‘formulaic’ essays, but they don’t get tired of genuine, reflective writing. They’re looking for honest stories that say something real about you, regardless of the topic’s popularity.

Try drafting both essays—or at least rough outlines—and see which one truly comes alive in your voice. Ask a friend or teacher to read both and tell you which feels more "you." Remember, the best essays aren’t the ones with the quirkiest subjects, but the ones that resonate emotionally and reveal your character. If you find a unique way to tell a more common story, or showcase uncommon depth with a quirky one, both are memorable in their own ways!