How do I choose a topic for my college essay?
I'm starting to brainstorm ideas for my college essay, but I feel kind of lost about what subject would be the best fit.
Should I focus on something that happened to me recently, or is it better to write about an older experience that really shaped me? I want my essay to stand out, but also feel genuine. Some of my friends are writing about overcoming major obstacles, and I'm worried that my story isn't dramatic enough. I do have a hobby and family tradition that are meaningful to me—would it be weird to write about something more 'ordinary'?
It would help to hear what kinds of topics colleges actually want to see and if anyone else is struggling to pin this down.
Should I focus on something that happened to me recently, or is it better to write about an older experience that really shaped me? I want my essay to stand out, but also feel genuine. Some of my friends are writing about overcoming major obstacles, and I'm worried that my story isn't dramatic enough. I do have a hobby and family tradition that are meaningful to me—would it be weird to write about something more 'ordinary'?
It would help to hear what kinds of topics colleges actually want to see and if anyone else is struggling to pin this down.
4 months ago
•
13 views
Camille Luong
• 4 months ago
Advisor
Choosing a topic for your college essay can definitely feel overwhelming, especially when you see classmates picking dramatic stories. But remember, the most important factor is authenticity—choosing a topic that genuinely reflects who you are.
You don’t need a huge, life-altering event to write a powerful essay. Admissions officers read thousands of essays each year, and what resonates most is a unique perspective, honest reflection, and a strong sense of your personality. Simple topics done well can be just as memorable as dramatic ones. For example, a student once wrote about cooking family recipes every Sunday with their grandmother. The essay wasn’t about major hardship; it was about the subtle lessons of patience, tradition, and family connection that these afternoons instilled. The story felt personal and provided insight into what matters to the student.
Consider writing about a hobby or family tradition if it really is important to you. Dig deeper—ask yourself why this activity matters. What have you learned from it, or how has it shaped your relationships, perspective, or future goals? Maybe your hobby helped you connect with new friends, learn discipline, or cope during stressful times. Focusing on a moment or memory related to this hobby can sometimes be more powerful than covering years of experience.
Regarding timing, both recent and older experiences can work as long as you’re able to reflect on them thoughtfully. What matters most is how you interpret the event or tradition, what you learned, and how it connects to who you are today.
Start by brainstorming moments when you felt most engaged, curious, proud, or challenged—no matter how big or small the event. Write a short list, and think about what each reveals about your character, values, or interests. Often, the most ‘ordinary’ topics become extraordinary essays because they are authentic, personal, and well-told. You’ll stand out by being honest and specific, not by forcing drama or tension where it doesn’t exist.
Trust that your story, if told with detail and reflection, is enough. Many students struggle with this part of the process, so you’re not alone! Give yourself time to brainstorm and draft, and don’t be afraid to write about what matters to you, even if it doesn’t feel flashy.
You don’t need a huge, life-altering event to write a powerful essay. Admissions officers read thousands of essays each year, and what resonates most is a unique perspective, honest reflection, and a strong sense of your personality. Simple topics done well can be just as memorable as dramatic ones. For example, a student once wrote about cooking family recipes every Sunday with their grandmother. The essay wasn’t about major hardship; it was about the subtle lessons of patience, tradition, and family connection that these afternoons instilled. The story felt personal and provided insight into what matters to the student.
Consider writing about a hobby or family tradition if it really is important to you. Dig deeper—ask yourself why this activity matters. What have you learned from it, or how has it shaped your relationships, perspective, or future goals? Maybe your hobby helped you connect with new friends, learn discipline, or cope during stressful times. Focusing on a moment or memory related to this hobby can sometimes be more powerful than covering years of experience.
Regarding timing, both recent and older experiences can work as long as you’re able to reflect on them thoughtfully. What matters most is how you interpret the event or tradition, what you learned, and how it connects to who you are today.
Start by brainstorming moments when you felt most engaged, curious, proud, or challenged—no matter how big or small the event. Write a short list, and think about what each reveals about your character, values, or interests. Often, the most ‘ordinary’ topics become extraordinary essays because they are authentic, personal, and well-told. You’ll stand out by being honest and specific, not by forcing drama or tension where it doesn’t exist.
Trust that your story, if told with detail and reflection, is enough. Many students struggle with this part of the process, so you’re not alone! Give yourself time to brainstorm and draft, and don’t be afraid to write about what matters to you, even if it doesn’t feel flashy.
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Camille Luong
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
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