What's the best way to start a college essay?

You're definitely not alone—many applicants find the intro to be the toughest part! A strong opening absolutely helps, but it doesn't have to be super flashy or poetic to work. The most effective leads usually place the reader right in the middle of something interesting or surprising, often by starting with a specific moment, an image, or a bit of dialogue that instantly makes us curious.

Instead of trying to craft the perfect, creative sentence from the start, try writing a few different openings and see which one feels most natural to your voice. For example, some students start with a brief snapshot of a defining moment: ‘Sweat dripped down my temples as I stared at the blank robotics code about to decide the state finals.’ This drops the reader into the action, making them want to know more. Others use a short, memorable sentence, like: ‘I have always been afraid of elevators.’ Then, they quickly explain why.

Questions can also be effective, but only if they set up a sense of intrigue. For instance: ‘What if my biggest fear isn’t failure, but forgetting to try?’ The key is to draw the reader in—don’t try to sound like someone else, and don’t worry if it’s understated. The goal is authenticity.

If you’re stuck, consider skipping the intro and writing the middle and end of your essay first. Once you have the main body, it’s often easier to go back and find a compelling entry point. Also, share a draft with a friend and ask: ‘Does this make you want to keep reading?’

Most importantly, remember there’s no single right way to start. People have written fantastic essays with dramatic openings, quiet reflection, or even simple statements. Think about what feels true to you and your story, then lead with that. You got this!