What are some tips for making my college essay stand out?

First off, you're definitely not alone in feeling overwhelmed—crafting a memorable Common App essay is a big challenge, but it's great that you're aware of the importance of showing your unique self.

Here are a few strategies to help your essay stand out:

1. Zoom in on a specific moment or experience. Rather than trying to cover your whole life or all your accomplishments, focus on a unique, memorable story or a small moment that reveals something deeper about who you are. For example, instead of writing about joining a debate team, you could describe the feeling you had before giving your first speech and how you coped in that one revealing moment. Your essay will feel more authentic and intimate.

2. Show self-awareness. Admissions readers value introspection. After you share your story, reflect on why that experience matters and how it’s shaped the way you think, feel, or act. For example, if you write about the moment you realized your younger sibling looks up to you, explore how that changed your outlook or influenced your choices.

3. Write in your natural voice. Imagine you're talking to a mentor or close friend. If a sentence sounds like something you wouldn't say out loud, try rephrasing. This will help your personality come through, rather than sounding generic.

4. Avoid overused topics unless you can add a truly personal twist. Sports injuries, moving, and the classic 'immigrant's journey' can work—but only if you focus on a detail or perspective that is unmistakably yours. For instance, one applicant stood out by describing the small, everyday rituals her family shared during her first weeks in a new country, using sensory details that put the reader in her shoes.

5. Don’t just recap your resume or write what you think colleges want to hear. Authenticity connects more than perfection or being overly polished. Admissions officers read thousands of essays; the ones they remember come from students who are willing to be honest and vulnerable.

In addition, have someone you trust read your drafts and ask them if they would recognize you from your essay. Ask: "Does this sound like me?" Their answer will tell you if your voice is shining through.

Starting out, it’s normal to write a few drafts that don’t feel right. Sometimes, the process of drafting helps you discover the story that really matters to you. Try writing about a time you made a mistake, changed your mind, or felt out of place—moments of conflict often lend themselves to strong, memorable essays.

The bottom line: focus on depth over breadth, use specifics to show who you are, and be honest about your experiences and feelings. That’s what makes an essay memorable.

Good luck! You’re on the right track by wanting to make your essay as strong and personal as possible.