What kinds of topics are good for college essays?

You definitely don’t need a "super dramatic" or rare experience to write a great college essay. What’s most important is showing who you are, how you think, and what matters to you—colleges are looking for authenticity and your voice, not just headline-worthy stories. Some of the best essays are about small, everyday moments that reveal how a student sees the world or responds to challenges.

A strong topic is one that genuinely matters to you and has shaped your perspective. For example, if you play soccer, don’t just write about winning a big game—maybe there was a moment at practice when you realized you were a leader, or when you helped a younger teammate who was struggling to fit in. Or, if reading is a big part of your life, you could focus on a single book that unexpectedly changed your view on something, or even a memory of reading with a family member and how that shaped your relationships or interests.

Personal essays can work well if you zoom in on a specific moment or challenge and then reflect on how it impacted you. For instance, an applicant once wrote a compelling essay about the ritual of making tea with their grandmother every evening. Through describing their conversations and the small details of making tea, they revealed a lot about their values, cultural background, and the way they connect with others.

Try brainstorming a list of small but memorable moments from your everyday life. Is there a routine, tradition, or conversation that sticks out? Has there been a time you failed, struggled, or had to make a tough choice? Then ask yourself: what did I learn from that experience? How did I change, even in a small way?

Remember, it’s totally okay if your topic is "regular" as long as your insight and personal connection make it yours. If you write with honesty and reflection, colleges will notice. Your story doesn’t have to be loud to be memorable—it just has to be yours.