What are some tips for making my college admissions essay stand out?
I've been working on my Common App essay, but I'm really worried it's too generic or clichéd. I keep hearing that admissions officers read thousands of these essays and that you need to stand out, but I'm not sure how much personal info I should include or what stories are "unique" enough.
Would love some advice from people who've done this before—like, are there certain topics to avoid or ways to make my voice come through more? If anyone has examples of what worked for them, that'd be super helpful. I'm applying to a mix of state schools and some Ivies, so I feel like there's a lot riding on getting this right.
Would love some advice from people who've done this before—like, are there certain topics to avoid or ways to make my voice come through more? If anyone has examples of what worked for them, that'd be super helpful. I'm applying to a mix of state schools and some Ivies, so I feel like there's a lot riding on getting this right.
8 months ago
•
68 views
Lydia Schooler
• 8 months ago
Advisor
As a Yale graduate and college admissions advisor with over 8 years of experience helping students stand out through their essays, I know that avoiding a generic or clichéd approach comes down to specificity, authenticity, and reflection.
Start by choosing a specific moment or experience that was deeply meaningful to you, rather than a broad topic like “working hard” or “overcoming challenges.” The more focused your story, the more memorable it becomes. For example, instead of a general essay about being an older sibling, you could share the story of one particular night when you helped your sister through a difficult situation, showing how it shaped your patience or leadership.
Be mindful of topics that tend to be overused, such as sports injuries, moving stories, or the “immigrant’s journey,” unless you can add a unique twist. If you do choose one, zoom in on a small, concrete moment or unexpected realization. For instance, your recovery from a sports injury might have led you to discover a passion for coaching others, or your immigration experience might have inspired you to create a cultural event in your community.
Let your voice come through by writing the way you actually think and speak. Avoid overly formal language or trying to sound like someone else—admissions officers want to hear the real you. A quick test is to have a friend read your essay and ask, “Does this sound like me?”
Always reflect on why the story matters. After describing the event, explain how it changed you, shaped your values, or influenced your future choices. Even a quiet moment can be powerful if you show why it mattered to you.
The small, personal details will always make a bigger impact than sweeping statements. Focus on capturing your authentic personality and experiences, and your essay will naturally stand out.
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.
Start by choosing a specific moment or experience that was deeply meaningful to you, rather than a broad topic like “working hard” or “overcoming challenges.” The more focused your story, the more memorable it becomes. For example, instead of a general essay about being an older sibling, you could share the story of one particular night when you helped your sister through a difficult situation, showing how it shaped your patience or leadership.
Be mindful of topics that tend to be overused, such as sports injuries, moving stories, or the “immigrant’s journey,” unless you can add a unique twist. If you do choose one, zoom in on a small, concrete moment or unexpected realization. For instance, your recovery from a sports injury might have led you to discover a passion for coaching others, or your immigration experience might have inspired you to create a cultural event in your community.
Let your voice come through by writing the way you actually think and speak. Avoid overly formal language or trying to sound like someone else—admissions officers want to hear the real you. A quick test is to have a friend read your essay and ask, “Does this sound like me?”
Always reflect on why the story matters. After describing the event, explain how it changed you, shaped your values, or influenced your future choices. Even a quiet moment can be powerful if you show why it mattered to you.
The small, personal details will always make a bigger impact than sweeping statements. Focus on capturing your authentic personality and experiences, and your essay will naturally stand out.
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.
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