What makes a college essay stand out to admissions officers?

You're definitely not alone in feeling overwhelmed by all the advice—college essays come with so much pressure. The truth is, admissions officers see a lot of similar topics, but what truly makes an essay stand out is your unique lens and voice. You don’t need the wildest topic; what matters most is how you use that topic to reveal something meaningful about yourself.

Essays tend to stand out when they offer specific, personal insight rather than general stories. For example, writing about being bilingual is a common topic, but you can make it your own by focusing on a single, vivid experience that shaped your worldview. Instead of telling the entire story of growing up speaking two languages, you might focus on a particular conversation, a misunderstanding, or a cultural event where your language skills changed the outcome. Maybe it was the moment you interpreted for a family member in a high-stress situation, or when you used your language skills to connect with someone new at school. Detail how you felt, what you learned, and how you act differently today because of it.

As for balancing being memorable and genuine, don’t try too hard to impress. Admissions officers really do appreciate authenticity. They want to understand how you think, what you value, and how you make sense of your experiences. Growth is key—show them how you have changed or gained new insight, even if it’s a small realization. One of the best essay examples I’ve seen was about a student’s inability to whistle. It worked because it was quirky, honest, and ultimately revealed the writer’s patience, sense of humor, and unique outlook on overcoming challenges.

Be sure your essay answers the prompt and shines a light on your character. Let your actual voice come through—read your drafts out loud or have someone who knows you well read them and ask if it sounds like you. Specificity and detail beat cliches and big, sweeping statements every time. Focus more on depth than breadth—one or two well-developed moments are more impactful than a summary of your life.

So yes, you can absolutely write a standout essay about growing up bilingual if you focus on an experience only you could tell, and reflect on what it means to you. The combination of honesty, reflection, and vivid detail is what makes an essay memorable.