What are the absolute must-haves for a strong college essay?
As I start brainstorming my college essay, I'm worried about missing key elements that admissions officers are hoping to see. Some of my friends say that it needs to be super unique, while others keep saying "just be yourself," which feels kind of vague.
Are there certain components every good college essay should have? Like, are there essential things that make admissions officers pay attention, or is it all about storytelling? I'd appreciate any examples or even a checklist that people have used for writing their own essays. Trying to figure this out before the summer so I don't totally freak out once senior year starts.
Are there certain components every good college essay should have? Like, are there essential things that make admissions officers pay attention, or is it all about storytelling? I'd appreciate any examples or even a checklist that people have used for writing their own essays. Trying to figure this out before the summer so I don't totally freak out once senior year starts.
4 months ago
•
13 views
Camille Luong
• 4 months ago
Advisor
Great question—it’s smart to get a handle on what matters most before you start writing. While every essay reflects your own story, there are some key elements that set strong college essays apart.
1. Clear Personal Voice: Admissions officers want to get to know you. Whether you’re quirky, thoughtful, passionate, or funny, make sure your real personality shows through! An essay shouldn’t sound like a resume or a textbook. For example, if you’re obsessed with vintage cameras, let your fascination come through in your word choice and details.
2. Meaningful Reflection: Go beyond describing an event—dig into what it meant to you. Why did it change you? What did you learn? If you write about a summer job, don’t just tell the day-to-day tasks. Share how handling tough customers made you more patient or taught you about small acts of kindness.
3. Specific Details: “Show, don’t tell” is classic advice for a reason. Instead of saying, “I’m a leader,” describe a moment when you organized a fundraiser, dealt with unexpected setbacks, and rallied your team through humor or creativity.
4. Unique Perspective: Your story doesn’t have to be dramatic or unheard-of—but it should feel like only you could have written it. If a topic feels common, focus on a singular, personal detail or moment. For example, if you moved schools, write about your first lunch period and the surprising way you broke the ice (maybe over a shared love of spicy foods?).
5. Growth or Change: Show progression. How did the experience you write about shape your outlook or goals? Even small moments can reveal big shifts in how you see the world or yourself.
Checklist for drafting your essay:
- Are you clearly the main character in your story?
- Can someone tell your personality from your writing?
- Do you reflect on why the story matters, not just what happened?
- Have you included sensory details, dialogue, or vivid images?
- Does the essay show some kind of growth or realization?
Ultimately, strong essays blend storytelling with self-awareness. They grab attention through authentic voice, personal details, and thoughtful reflection. Start by freewriting about small moments that stuck with you, then look for the ones that best highlight who you are.
If you focus on sharing something deeply personal and honest, you’ll be on the right track. Good luck with brainstorming—you’re ahead of the game!
1. Clear Personal Voice: Admissions officers want to get to know you. Whether you’re quirky, thoughtful, passionate, or funny, make sure your real personality shows through! An essay shouldn’t sound like a resume or a textbook. For example, if you’re obsessed with vintage cameras, let your fascination come through in your word choice and details.
2. Meaningful Reflection: Go beyond describing an event—dig into what it meant to you. Why did it change you? What did you learn? If you write about a summer job, don’t just tell the day-to-day tasks. Share how handling tough customers made you more patient or taught you about small acts of kindness.
3. Specific Details: “Show, don’t tell” is classic advice for a reason. Instead of saying, “I’m a leader,” describe a moment when you organized a fundraiser, dealt with unexpected setbacks, and rallied your team through humor or creativity.
4. Unique Perspective: Your story doesn’t have to be dramatic or unheard-of—but it should feel like only you could have written it. If a topic feels common, focus on a singular, personal detail or moment. For example, if you moved schools, write about your first lunch period and the surprising way you broke the ice (maybe over a shared love of spicy foods?).
5. Growth or Change: Show progression. How did the experience you write about shape your outlook or goals? Even small moments can reveal big shifts in how you see the world or yourself.
Checklist for drafting your essay:
- Are you clearly the main character in your story?
- Can someone tell your personality from your writing?
- Do you reflect on why the story matters, not just what happened?
- Have you included sensory details, dialogue, or vivid images?
- Does the essay show some kind of growth or realization?
Ultimately, strong essays blend storytelling with self-awareness. They grab attention through authentic voice, personal details, and thoughtful reflection. Start by freewriting about small moments that stuck with you, then look for the ones that best highlight who you are.
If you focus on sharing something deeply personal and honest, you’ll be on the right track. Good luck with brainstorming—you’re ahead of the game!
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Camille Luong
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
Rating
5.0 (5 reviews)