Do colleges prefer creative or traditional essays?

As a Yale graduate and college admissions advisor with over 8 years of experience helping students craft essays that win admission to selective schools, I can tell you that colleges don’t have a fixed preference for “creative” versus “traditional” essays. What admissions officers truly value is authenticity, clarity, and insight into who you are—whether the structure is unconventional or classic.

Some students succeed with creative formats like a letter, poem, or playful structure, but only when that format reveals something meaningful about them without sacrificing clarity. Others thrive with a more conventional narrative or reflective essay, focusing on a personal story or realization. Both can be equally powerful if they’re engaging, genuine, and well-written.

For example, one of my students wrote a straightforward essay about a childhood memory and what she learned from it—no flashy format, but her authenticity shone through, and she was admitted to a highly selective Ivy. Another student formatted her essay as a restaurant menu, with each “dish” representing a part of her life—admissions officers loved it because it was clear, purposeful, and still told a strong story.

The real risk isn’t in choosing creative versus traditional—it’s in producing something that feels forced, gimmicky, or impersonal. If a creative approach inspires you and makes your story shine, use it. If a traditional format lets your voice and ideas stand out, that can work beautifully too.

If you’re unsure, you might start with a simple, conventional draft to get your ideas down, then see if a creative angle emerges naturally. Pick the style that feels most authentic and helps you tell your story in the best possible way.

Colleges want to get to know you. As long as your essay is clear, reflective, and authentic, you’ll be in great shape—creative or not.

Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families, where we can review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book one directly through my profile—spots this month are limited.