Hey, everyone! So, I'm pretty knee-deep in the process of drafting my college essays, and I really want to make sure my application stands out. I've heard that admissions officers have 'seen it all' when it comes to certain overwritten topics. Could anyone share the most overdone college essay themes that I should probably steer clear of?
You're asking the right question! Which essay topics to avoid can be just as important as which ones to choose. Here are some cliché topics often seen in college application essays, that you might want to avoid:
1. Sports victories or injuries: While sports can definitely lead to mind-opening experiences, this particular focus does not always lead to a distinct story. That's not to say you can't write about sports, but a unique angle or impact is necessary.
2. Overcoming hardship to rise up the ranks in school: It's a common narrative and unless there's a unique twist, it's not likely to stand out.
3. The typical immigrant story: It can often revolve around adjusting to a new place, learning a new language, and so on. These stories, while valid, have become rather repetitive.
4. The 'voluntourism' essay: This is typically about a life-changing experience on a short-term volunteer trip, often to a developing country. It can be tricky to write well, as it risks seeming insincere or even condescending.
5. Essays about a personal or family tragedy: While these events are very impactful, they can shift the focus away from you if not handled effectively.
Remember, the topic you choose reflects your personality, interests and perspective. Focus on an experience that is unique to you, not necessarily unique in the grand scheme of humanity. The way you interpret and present your experiences is what makes your essay unique. For instance, an applicant talking about how their team trained and improved to beat their rivals could write about how this experience taught them the importance of persistence, or perhaps revealed a hidden interest in physiology.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.