What do college admissions officers look for in an essay?

Admissions officers are mainly interested in understanding who you are as a person and how you think. It’s less about having had an extraordinary experience and more about how you reflect on the experiences you have had, even if they seem everyday. They want to see your authentic voice and get a sense of what matters to you, how you approach challenges, and what kind of perspective you might bring to campus.

Writing style is important, but only in that your essay should be clear, genuine, and engaging. You don’t have to be overly quirky or dramatic unless that naturally fits your personality. Some of the most memorable essays are written in a straightforward style but reflect deep insight or vulnerability. As an example, one student wrote about washing dishes at their family’s restaurant—something simple, but they used the experience to reflect on responsibility, family dynamics, and personal growth. It wasn’t the uniqueness of dishwashing that made the essay stand out, but how thoughtfully the student explored its meaning.

As for the topic, you don’t need to hunt for something no one else has ever written about. The way you tell the story—a unique angle, honest emotion, or a surprising conclusion—often matters more than the initial topic. If you do write about a common experience, try focusing on a specific moment or detail that illustrates your growth or character. Think of an instance where you had to make a tough choice, confronted a fear, or re-examined your view of something important.

Demonstrating growth is key, but it doesn’t have to be a dramatic transformation. Even recognizing a small shift in your thinking, or how you handled a setback, shows maturity. Ultimately, admissions officers want to put down your essay feeling like they’ve met you. If you’re honest, specific, and reflective, you’re headed in the right direction.