Hey! I'm starting to brainstorm some ideas for my college essay, but I'm not exactly sure what topics I should stay away from. Can anyone give me some advice on things not to write about in my college essay?
Hey there! Avoiding cliché or overused topics is a great approach to make your college essay stand out. Here are some common themes to steer clear of:
1. Sports injuries or victories: Writing about a physical challenge or a triumphant game can come across as unoriginal. Focus on unique aspects of sports if you choose to write about them.
2. Moving schools or cities: These stories often revolve around cultural adjustment or growth, which can seem generic. Dive deeper into how the change specifically affected you.
3. Immigrant's story: Many applicants discuss their experiences as first-generation immigrants, so find a unique angle or incident that sets you apart.
4. Working hard in a challenging class: While it's important to demonstrate perseverance, these stories lack specificity and may not reveal much about your character.
5. Volunteer trips or community service: If you're covering these topics, make sure you focus on a specific aspect or impact rather than giving a general account of your experience.
6. Relationship struggles or breakups: Admissions officers typically find this topic too personal and uninformative about an applicant's academic potential.
7. Overcoming a general personal challenge: Avoid writing about common struggles without a distinctive element that highlights your individuality.
8. Politics or religion: These topics can be polarizing and may alienate some readers. If you choose to write about them, be careful to discuss your own beliefs or experiences without being overly opinionated.
To make your essay standout, choose experiences or topics that showcase your personal growth, intellectual curiosity, or unique perspective. Focus on a singular, revealing moment or find an unusual angle to approach common themes. This will ensure your essay is memorable and highlights you as a unique candidate. Good luck with your essay!
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