How do you choose the right topic for your college narrative essay?

Choosing your college narrative essay topic can feel overwhelming, but the key is to focus on authenticity and personal insight—not just on the size or drama of the event.

Instead of looking for the most extraordinary story, think about moments where you really learned or changed, even if they were small or happened in everyday contexts. Admissions officers read thousands of essays about big accomplishments or common struggles; what makes yours compelling is your unique perspective and how you process that experience.

Sometimes the 'right' topic is an event or moment that keeps sticking with you, even if it seems unimportant on the surface. This could be something as subtle as a conversation that shifted your worldview, a hobby you dove into until it became a part of your identity, or a minor conflict with unexpected repercussions.

For example, one student wrote about the lunches she packed for her younger sister every morning. That topic might seem mundane, but through details and reflection, she revealed her sense of responsibility, compassion, and the way her family shaped her values.

The best essays show growth, curiosity, or a fresh way of looking at things—even if the story is small. Ask yourself what you learned about yourself. Did the experience challenge you to see things differently? Did your actions during that moment align with the person you want the reader to see?

If a moment feels 'too personal,' that can actually work in your favor, as long as you’re comfortable sharing it and can connect it to broader insights about who you are. Vulnerability, when done thoughtfully, is memorable and shows maturity. Just make sure the essay stays focused on you and your growth, not just the details of the event itself.

Try writing down a few possible stories—jot out what happened, why it mattered, and what you learned. Often, seeing it sketched out in writing makes the right story clearer. Let a trusted teacher, counselor, or friend read your ideas—they might see something special in a story you overlooked.

Trust the moments that linger in your mind, and remember: the ‘right’ topic is the one that lets you tell your truth in a way only you can.