What are some good controversial argumentative essay topics for college admissions essays?
I'm trying to brainstorm ideas for my college application essays, and I heard that picking a controversial topic can really help you stand out. At the same time, I'm kind of nervous because I don't want to pick anything too risky that could hurt my chances.
Could anyone share examples of topics that walk that line? If you've written about something controversial (like politics, social issues, etc.), how did you handle it? I'm not sure what's considered too much and what admissions officers actually appreciate in these situations.
I'm planning to apply to a few competitive schools and I want my essay to be memorable, but also safe. Any advice or personal experiences would be super helpful!
Could anyone share examples of topics that walk that line? If you've written about something controversial (like politics, social issues, etc.), how did you handle it? I'm not sure what's considered too much and what admissions officers actually appreciate in these situations.
I'm planning to apply to a few competitive schools and I want my essay to be memorable, but also safe. Any advice or personal experiences would be super helpful!
4 months ago
•
8 views
Camille Luong
• 4 months ago
Advisor
Choosing a controversial topic for your college application essay can definitely make your writing stand out, but it’s wise to approach this with care. Admissions officers don’t expect you to shy away from tough issues, but your perspective, maturity, and nuance are key.
Some examples of topics that are controversial yet manageable with the right approach include:
- Addressing issues like free speech on campus, where you might describe a time you stood up for open dialogue, even when you disagreed with others.
- Dealing with environmental activism, such as participating in climate strikes or taking a stand for sustainability at your school.
- Writing about differing views on social media and privacy, perhaps reflecting on how digital life has changed your generation’s approach to relationships or truth.
If you choose one of these topics, focus on your personal story and growth. For example, instead of making a blanket statement about a hot-button issue, describe a pivotal conversation or moment that made you reevaluate your perspective. Maybe you volunteered with a community group that brought together people with opposing views, and you learned how to listen and build consensus.
Admissions officers appreciate when applicants:
- Show genuine curiosity or care about an issue
- Critically examine their own assumptions
- Avoid sounding preachy or overly aggressive
- Explain how the controversy shaped their values or actions
One student wrote about advocating for gender-neutral bathrooms at her high school. Rather than blaming those who disagreed, she described working with administrators to understand their concerns and ultimately helping to find a compromise. Her essay focused on empathy, practical problem-solving, and the importance of respectful dialogue.
If you’re unsure whether a topic is too risky, ask yourself if you can write about it empathetically and honestly. It helps to frame your experience around what you learned, how you listened to others, and how it changed your thinking or inspired constructive action.
Overall, take on controversy with humility and self-reflection, and you’ll show schools you’re ready for college-level discussion without alienating your readers.
Some examples of topics that are controversial yet manageable with the right approach include:
- Addressing issues like free speech on campus, where you might describe a time you stood up for open dialogue, even when you disagreed with others.
- Dealing with environmental activism, such as participating in climate strikes or taking a stand for sustainability at your school.
- Writing about differing views on social media and privacy, perhaps reflecting on how digital life has changed your generation’s approach to relationships or truth.
If you choose one of these topics, focus on your personal story and growth. For example, instead of making a blanket statement about a hot-button issue, describe a pivotal conversation or moment that made you reevaluate your perspective. Maybe you volunteered with a community group that brought together people with opposing views, and you learned how to listen and build consensus.
Admissions officers appreciate when applicants:
- Show genuine curiosity or care about an issue
- Critically examine their own assumptions
- Avoid sounding preachy or overly aggressive
- Explain how the controversy shaped their values or actions
One student wrote about advocating for gender-neutral bathrooms at her high school. Rather than blaming those who disagreed, she described working with administrators to understand their concerns and ultimately helping to find a compromise. Her essay focused on empathy, practical problem-solving, and the importance of respectful dialogue.
If you’re unsure whether a topic is too risky, ask yourself if you can write about it empathetically and honestly. It helps to frame your experience around what you learned, how you listened to others, and how it changed your thinking or inspired constructive action.
Overall, take on controversy with humility and self-reflection, and you’ll show schools you’re ready for college-level discussion without alienating your readers.
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Camille Luong
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
Rating
5.0 (5 reviews)