What are some things to avoid in a college essay?

Admission officers read thousands of essays every year, so it’s really smart to think about what stands out—in both good and less helpful ways. There definitely are some topics and techniques that are either overused or just don’t add much to your application.

You mentioned sports injuries and mission trips as possible topics to avoid. It’s true that these come up a lot, which can make them feel repetitive to readers unless your story is truly unique. For example, simply writing about how you broke your wrist, overcame adversity, and learned perseverance isn’t memorable because so many applicants use that narrative. If you have an unusual angle—say, your injury inspired you to develop physical therapy exercises for classmates or you channeled your energy into a totally unexpected project—that’s different. The same goes for mission or service trips: avoid focusing only on how you "helped others" or a generic sense of gratitude. Instead, highlight a moment of self-discovery or a complex situation where you learned something new about yourself or your assumptions were challenged.

Here are some general things to avoid:

1. Cliché openings, such as starting with a famous quote or using a generic intro like "Webster’s Dictionary defines..." Instead, try beginning with a vivid personal anecdote or scene.

2. Writing that’s overly formal or stuffed with big words to impress. Admission officers want to hear your authentic voice. For example, "I utilized this arduous opportunity to maximize my altruistic endeavors" sounds forced. "I saw how much I enjoyed helping others, especially when it wasn’t required" sounds more natural.

3. Essays that focus on someone else (like a grandparent, teacher, or celebrity) without connecting it directly to your growth or perspective. If you write about someone who inspired you, make sure the essay’s focus returns to you and how you changed as a result.

4. Trying too hard to be funny or shocking. Humor can be a plus when it comes naturally, but avoid jokes that could fall flat or risk offending the reader. Similarly, don’t write just to shock (e.g., graphic details without a point).

5. Rehashing your resume. Don’t just list activities or achievements. Choose one experience and go deep, showing your thought process, feelings, and evolution.

As you brainstorm, keep in mind that memorable essays are rooted in specific moments—conflicts, realizations, unexpected opportunities, or tiny details that reveal something about how you see the world. For instance, one student wrote about her friendship with her neighbor’s pet duck, and what it taught her about community. It wasn’t the topic that mattered, but the honest reflection and individuality behind it.

If your story is personal and written with genuine self-reflection, you’re much more likely to engage an admissions officer than with a familiar or overly polished topic. Focus on what matters to you and how it shaped you, rather than what you think colleges want to hear.