What topics should I avoid writing about in my college essay?

Great question—choosing the right essay topic is key to making your application stand out, and avoiding cliché or problematic topics will definitely help make a stronger impression. The main goal is to write something genuine and memorable that gives insight into who you are beyond your stats and extracurriculars.

Here are some common topics to approach with caution:

1. Overused themes:
- Sports injuries or big victories: Many students talk about breaking a bone, overcoming an injury, or winning a championship. Admissions officers see hundreds of these. If you do want to write about sports, it needs to be from a truly unique perspective—maybe how being sidelined led you to discover a hidden passion (like starting a physical therapy club or coaching younger kids).
- Mission trips or community service that focus on 'saving' others: These essays can unintentionally come across as self-congratulatory or shallow if they focus mainly on how you helped others, rather than what you genuinely learned or how your perspective changed. If you must write about this, focus on a singular challenge or misconception you faced and how it shifted your worldview.
- Immigrant or moving stories: These are absolutely valid, personal experiences, but they're often told in a broad way. Try to zero in on a specific moment—for example, the first day you felt at home or a memorable interaction that changed your view.
- The challenging class that you conquered: Instead of describing the hard work itself, focus on a specific aspect—what unconventional method or approach did you take? Did you ask for help in a new way or start teaching the material to others?

2. Potentially risky or inappropriate topics:
- Extremely personal struggles (like trauma or mental health): These topics are sensitive, and while you can address them, it’s important to focus on growth and resilience—not just suffering. Make sure you end on a hopeful, positive note.
- Illegal activities, excessive partying, or anything that might raise a red flag for good character.
- Controversial political or religious beliefs presented in a divisive way. If these topics are central to you, focus on how your beliefs have shaped your character, not just the beliefs themselves.

Example: Instead of writing “learning to work hard after failing my math final,” you could write about a single afternoon when you asked your little sister for help and realized how different perspectives—like hers—can reveal new ways to solve a problem. This highlights humility and openness, which are more memorable than generic perseverance.

Ultimately, a great topic authentically reveals something unique about you. If your essay could be written by hundreds of other applicants, it’s probably too generic. Dig deeper for a specific story, moment, or aspect of your experience that only you can share—for example, how learning sign language to communicate with a neighbor showed you the power of patience and opened a new friendship.

If you’re unsure if a topic is too common or risky, try sharing it with a trusted teacher or advisor to get a second opinion. Good luck with your essays!